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In 2020, Melbourne Fringe delayed its annual festival to allow for some in-person events to take place post-lockdown. Then in 2021, the festival was sucker-punched with another lockdown, forcing Fringe to pivot online at the last minute. While it was still a success, the last-minute switch meant many shows were unable to run or were run online in an altered format. So what happened to the events that couldn't run?
From February 22 to March 13 many of those shows will finally get their time in the sun with Fringe Rebound – a program of more than 20 events that weren't able to happen during Melbourne Fringe 2021. The line-up spans everything from comedy and cabaret to theatre and music, and also includes shows that pivoted online for Fringe 2021, but will finally be staged in-person as originally intended.
Highlights of Fringe Rebound include:
Blunderland (Feb 26)
This saucy New York variety show is equal parts surreal, psychedelic and sensual. Nothing is off-limits and pearl clutchers should be advised things can get spicy.
Fresh(ish) Off the Boat (Mar 1-5)
This semi-autobiographical (isn't all comedy?) stand-up show details the experience of being an international student, working abroad and trying to understand different cultural norms.
Little Monster (Feb 23-27)
Little Monster still got a run online in 2021 but the Dr Seuss-like, award-winning (Best Work in Festival) performance from Telia Nevile is well worth seeing in person too. Because as our reviewer wrote last year, Little Monster takes you into a "share house full of demons."
The Chronic Cabaret (Mar 2-6)
The entire cast of the Chronic Cabaret is either disabled or living with a chronic illness, with performers using circus, drag, burlesque, music and more to tell their stories.
Escape to the Megaverse (Mar 5)
Brothers Eden and Josh Porter (aka the Game Boys) have been trapped in a loop, doing the same show over and over again each night...but there's still hope for an escape. This show uses some pretty snazzy visual design from Kinetic Screen to amplify the comedy and chaos.
Visit the Fringe Rebound website for the full list of upcoming shows and to book tickets.