Cabaret and burlesque get a fresh, modern treatment in 'Carousel' from Champagne Showgirls.
Featuring world-class aerials, burlesque, dance, acrobatics and live musicians, 'Carousel' is a hypnotic place ruled by Nix, the conductor, who is presenting his creatures for Adelaide Fringe's viewing pleasure.
This is one carousel not for the faint of heart – it's a whirlwind, and a sight to behold. It features twists and turns, leading to dark and dreamy places filled to the brim with burlesque, circus and cabaret. Champagne Showgirls have perfected their craft, and are ready to show Adelaide Fringe just what they've got.
Here, we chat to Champagne Showgirls Owner/Operator/Producer/Performer Hayley Williams ahead of the Adelaide Fringe season.
Champagne Showgirls is an award-winning company. How does it feel for it to be acknowledged with accolades like this?
We feel so honoured to be able to do what we love, which is performing, and entertaining people. Being awarded and recognised is always a cherry on top for us. We have put a lot of blood, sweat and tears into our shows, so when it is noticed it makes it all worthwhile.
Talk a bit about this show’s background, and its influences.
Champagne Showgirls was started in 2015 touring with expos around Australia and New Zealand. Over the years I've taken bits and pieces from world-class shows I've been a witness to. Starting in the dance industry 16 years ago, I had been inspired by past groups such as Les Girls with lavish costumes and beautiful dancing. It was obviously before my time. My dear friend Jullianne Deen the costume queen would tell many stories of what an amazing show it was and show pictures of the events. Jullianne's costumes are in nearly every Champagne Showgirls Show (being dressed by her for 16 years). I've always strived to keep the vision of what true showgirls look like, with over-the-top costuming, elegance, while adding a touch of circus and contemporary burlesque.
What are you looking forward to about presenting it at Adelaide Fringe this year?
We are finally able to meet our South Australian fans! Last year we were locked out of the state, well, locked in Western Australia while COVID went through our beloved Adelaide. This year we are bringing the best of the best to make up for our cancelled season. And boy are we going to bring it to Adelaide Fringe 2023!
Why do you think audiences are so drawn to productions such as this one?
I think people like a mixture of all art forms coming together into a jam-packed night of entertainment for all. With live musicians and dancers – pleasing all your senses in a tantalising experience! Not to mention a bit of adult fun with cheeky humour and naughty burlesque dancers. All while admiring some of the extreme talents of the circus elements in our shows.
As the Owner of Champagne Showgirls, what is the main thing you set out to achieve with each performance?
I'm very much a personality-driven observer, I love being able to see that in my performers either genuine stage presence or acted characters come to life on stage! Also, overall presentation of my performers. Full costumes, copious amounts of glitter and rhinestones have also been what we are known for. Some would say we are over the top, I think there's never enough sparkle!
What’s the biggest challenge around putting together a show like ‘Carousel’?
The first thing about putting on a successful show together is finding your kind of people, which all have the same goal and have the passion of wanting to be a part of a team and truly wanting to entertain above all else. I find every season or show run has its different challenges. . . Having people around you who can help in those times is crucial. And this is your team of performers.
You’re also performing in the show. What do you love most about wearing many hats when it comes to Champagne Showgirls/'Carousel'?
I have always enjoyed mainly performing, but as the years go on I have found a new love in coordinating and creating the show's storylines, audio and lighting. That's maybe one of my favourite things to do now. I love to help my team get ready for showtime whether it is costuming, choreographing, teaching aerial routines or giving new performers a chance to showcase their skills. The satisfaction of watching people grow as performers has overtaken the love I have for personally performing.
Sell the show to us in three words.
Fanciful, mesmerising masterpiece.
'Carousel' plays Wonderland Spiegeltent at Wonderland Festival Hub - Hindmarsh Square (Adelaide Fringe) 17-26 February.
