'Elixir Revived' was a chaotic zombie apocalypse performance that blended playfulness, morbid comedy and mind-blowing acrobatics into the most fun evening you can have at Fringe World.
The adventure into death, resurrection, pharmacology and pure mayhem began. Following some pesky zombies being taken down, we were introduced to our four hero scientists, who were tasked with elixir testing, boosting height, weight, width, strength, length, and dexterity.
With the first elixir consumed, limbs began flailing and bodies started convulsing until the full effects took hold. With a magical boost to dexterity, the scientists displayed their superhuman balancing abilities, including precariously holding a headstand on one foot. The audience didn’t hold back their delight, with loud 'woo's and gasps.
Keeping it unpredictable, our scientist enjoyed some clowning around. Their cheekiness ran throughout the show – I wasn’t sure if they were trained professionals or a group of elixir addicts who had somehow wandered on to the stage.
On consuming the next elixir, one of the scientists turned into the best Jenga partner ever, demonstrating impossible balance, strength and control with blocks. With a beatboxing interlude adding another unexpected twist, bringing sound and rhythm into the madness. Just when things couldn’t get weirder, somehow, infants and football got involved.
Dodging the newly-introduced WA knife laws, the hero scientists elicited more 'woo's and gasps from the crowd, with a knife routine too close for comfort. One scientist didn’t look like they would make it, but with the power of a fresh elixir, they were dramatically resurrected into a crucifix position before delivering a whirling rope routine showcasing positions never seen before, a mesmerising combination of movement, risk, and innovation. A highlight of the show.
The madness continued – you never knew what the next superhuman ability was to be bestowed on the scientists – returning from the dead, breakdancing level ten, trapeze master, or slow, painful death. 'Elixir Revived' had the audience in raptures throughout the performance, completely consumed by the whirlwind of morbid comedy, acrobatic skill, and sheer entertainment. The dead didn’t die, gravity was upside, and every person left with a beaming smile.
Words: Daniel Holgate
