Touted as one of the must-see shows at this year’s Fringe, ‘Cult’ promises to be a raunchy and raucous romp; in which sense it certainly does not disappoint.
The team behind much talked about shows from past years, including ‘Limbo’ and ‘Fear & Delight’ have put together a show combining beloved memories – and some others most would rather forget – from cult classics from years past.
One would be absolutely amiss to expect anything less than complete and utter kitsch from a show with such a premise and that is exactly what ‘Cult’ delivered to an anxious crowd on opening weekend of the 2016 Adelaide Fringe Festival.
After a 35-minute delay, the anxious audience were itching for more drinks and keen to be entertained. Thankfully the bar features prominently within the venue, a well thought out feature indeed! The show kicks off with two figures, adorned head-to-toe in sequined outfits eerily making their way through the crowd. Looking around the room, it is clear this will be a show that makes use of the spacious venue and cabaret setting, immersing the audience right into the performance.
The first act saw a punter dragged on stage and seated while the performer executed an interpretation of ‘Mein Herr’ from ‘Cabaret’ – the first of many nods to a slew of fantastic films and television shows. The immediate and regular audience involvement may be off putting for many, and the bizarre take on many favourites – with aspects most would find confronting – does not necessarily bode well.
While the concept of celebrating a fantastic, albeit beautifully embarrassing history of films is great, the execution needs some work. While the show is for the most part very fun, the general sense of tack goes well beyond paying homage to the films – it may be that this reviewer missed the point entirely. Unfortunately it all felt a little cheap – and not in the ironic manner with which was assume they intended.
'Cult' performs The Garden of Unearthly Delights until 13 March as part of Adelaide Fringe Festival.
