“There’s cabaret, comedy, kicks, tricks, and a guy spinning around a hatstand in the air. What more could you want?”
Alana Kaye
4 Stars
The Flamingo at Gluttony, Rymill Park
21 Feb – 23 Mar
Adelaide Fringe Festival
Pop the kettle on and get comfy… London’s calling!
This is an entertaining variety show that’s relatively suitable for the whole family (only one or two jokes for grownups). There’s cabaret, comedy, kicks, tricks, and a guy spinning around a hatstand in the air. What more could you want?
London Calling leans deep into the British theme, but its talented cast hail from all over the world. This year, it’s a fresh lineup, including three Cirque du Soleil artists, a headliner from The Illusionists, and…
… the outlandish Captain Frodo! They are an absolute standout with their horror-inducing dislocation contortion and excellent comedic timing. Oscar Kaufmann gives an unforgettable aerial performance around the aforementioned floating hatstand – it’s a very different take on the aerial stunts that are dotted around the Fringe Festival’s various variety shows, and I really enjoyed it.
And if you like hand shadow puppets, you’re in for a real treat!
With a large screen at the back of the stage, the show has a nice digital element that really helps to transport you to Old Blighty, although the journey jumps around a bit. There were a few technical glitches on the night I attended, which interrupted the overall pacing. The show did feel a little subdued as opposed to the high octane energy I was expecting.
London Calling is a fun show for Festivalgoers of all ages. In 2023 it was awarded Pick of the Fringe for its debut season, and last year’s run was also incredibly popular. So, if London calls, will you answer?
Tickets: https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/london-calling-af2025
Alana Kaye, Theatre Now
