The truly unforgettable RCC Fringe opens up its doors on Friday the 15th February. Hosted this year at the University of Adelaide, the RCC Fringe has some of the best acts showing at this year’s Fringe Festival. We were lucky enough to be invited to the launch night on the 13th to experience the booming atmosphere and to have a taste of the shows on offer this year. We were truly enamored with the sheer talent and charisma that each artist put into their show, and were deeply moved by the music and messages that each put across.

Welcomed with a glass of wine into Bonython Hall, we took our seats and eagerly waited to be entertained. First to hit the stage was Quality Novelty, a hula hooping sensation of a show that has won fifteen world records. Quality Novelty is Marawa the Amazing and her extraordinary team. Armed with hula hoops galore, Marawa dazzled the stage in her huge high heels and huge hair. Performing unimaginable tricks with hula hoops and making the stage hers, Marawa captured a fun and delightful energy that was absolutely basked in. She left us amazed and wanting more.

Next up was Penny Arcade: BITCH!DYKE!FAGHAG!WHORE!, which was truly as risqué and sensational as the name suggests. Penny Arcade is truly the queen of New York and has brought her fantastic performance to Adelaide. We were treated to her fantastic wit, sense of humour and the erotic and passionate energy that she and her show bring to the audience. With such an important message, that everyone should love and feel loved, Penny Arcade leaves you with something meaningful to think about after the show. We loved this performance and can’t wait to see the full thing!

Last but not least, Ollie English brought us his powerful voice and completely blew our minds with his soulful vocals. Singing his singles ‘How Many Times’ and ‘Holy Water’, Ollie really took the stage and gave his all to the audience. We were completely under his spell with every note he sang. Truly a fantastic end to opening night, we highly suggest giving him a listen. Ollie is supporting Aloe Blacc at the Barr Smiths and Maths Lawns at the University of Adelaide.

After the performances, we were guided to lawns in front of the University to enjoy some tunes, drinks and canapés. We sat under the setting sun and enjoyed glasses of bubbly along with cold meats and ham sliders. There were DJs lighting up the space with pumping music and a full bar with drinks to satisfy everybody.

We loved our night at the RCC Fringe Launch and do hope you check it out this year. The RCC Fringe is open from the 15th February – 23rd March 2019, with a large variety of shows. To take a look at their program and purchase tickets, head to their website at https://rccfringe.com.au/.

Words and Images by Kitty Barr