Tucked away above the West End Markets, Steve Bowerman’s Vision Gallery was the perfect locale for the launch of the 2015 Brisbane Fringe Festival programme.
Suitably shabby, warmly intimate and oh-so underground, the venue was filled with an eclectic crowd of alt art lovers who were treated to a tasting platter of cultural delights – a sampler of what’s in store for patrons this year.
Now in its fourth iteration, the BFF is a truly grass roots affair which is organised, staged and financed entirely by sponsors and volunteers. And despite the lack of government funding, the Fringe has grown steadily over the years’ with the 2015 event presenting 45 shows across 15 venues.
This year the festival is centered at the West End Markets with Woodford regular, Justin Brown bringing his fabulous Pineapple Lounge to the festival forecourt.
So apart from a truck load of awesome, what can punters expect? Judging by the performances at the gala launch there’s something for everyone with comedy, drama, dance, music, burlesque, cabaret, and stage performances covering off the programme.
But let’s get specific.Martin Wong who is a dentist by day and stand-up comic by night delivered a fast paced and confident set that was laugh-out-loud funny. One quarter of the comedy team Mrs. Wong’s Boys, Martin pokes fun at his Asian heritage while challenging racial stereotypes. Apparently a regular on the local comedy circuit Martin is definitely someone to watch.
Photos from the Brisbane Fringe Festival programme launch night.
Silk Road Tribal Collective delighted everyone with their exotic dance routines and equally exotic sound - created with instruments most of which I’d never heard or seen before.
Miss Kitty Obsidian gave us a taste of her New Globe Theatre show 'Curves & Claws' which celebrates all that is dark, different, and a little bit dangerous. A mix of burlesque, shibari (Japanese rope bondage), fetish, and drag, Kitty showed us more than her claws.
The Last Flapper Rebecca Elise Lamb’s 'The Last Flapper' is based on the letters and stories of Zelda Fitzgerald, the glamorous, fun loving yet tragic partner of writer Scott Fitzgerald. This one woman show is superbly executed and deeply moving – particularly if you know the backstory of the most glamourous couple of the 1920’s.
Brisbane’s world music darlings Mzaza closed the show with singer Pauline Maundy (also Festival Director) coaxing the audience to their feet – rounding out a night that was filled with positive vibes and a sense of creative camaraderie. So whether you’re a first time ‘fringer’ or a seasoned follower, there’s plenty to see and its’ well worth supporting what is undoubtedly one of the most fun and friendly arts events in Brisbane.
The Brisbane Fringe Festival runs in and around Brisbane, 15-30 August.
