Review: UNDER THE COVERS: VOLUME 2: ADELAIDE FRINGE 2018 at Empyrean At Gluttony

Reviewed by Corinna Di Niro, Friday 16th February 2018.

Set in the new Empyrean tent, audiences check in to this cheeky hotel, where an array of aerial acts and bumbling bellboys entertain us in Under the Covers: volume 2. It's great to see local Adelaide talent at the Fringe, and Zigzag Circus certainly brings a whole bunch.

With mood lighting and music added to help lift each act, the performers offered everything they have. This group of people with raw talent had plenty to give, as they tried to deliver a polished performance, despite first night nerves and a few missteps along the way. Stand out acts belong to the 'devastated bride' and the reverse strip of the 'tipsy' guest, an act created and made famous by Laurie Hagen, seen recently in Club Swizzle.

These two acts were well thought out, rehearsed and kept the audience engaged. Some more development is needed for the clowning/mime routines of the bellboys and the duo balancing act but, for amateur artists, the whole cast did a really good job and should be congratulated. Special mention goes to the bellboy, who impressed us with his multiple pirouettes.

The direction of the show could be improved, as some scenes and character choices didn't quite work. The jewel thieves, for example, and the general interaction between the flirtatious female guests and bellboys were lost in translation. These kinks, however, can be easily ironed out with a bit more rehearsal.

Under the Covers: volume 2 focussed heavily on the aerial acts, with little attention given to the many other acts that fall under the circus banner. This was surprising, considering that Zigzag Circus offers a range of classes in juggling, object manipulation, fire-breathing, stilt walking, and more. What was on offer, though, was met with a cheering and supportive crowd.

Audiences will love supporting this homegrown Fringe act, made up of both trainers and students, that showcases some of Adelaide's freshest circus talent. Come to check in, before they check out.

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