Forbidden

There are not enough stars to rate Forbidden, it is a superb show in every way!

Drawing its roots from German cabaret, Moulin Rouge and Folies Bergere, this production sets the scene even before the show begins – pink front row seating, pink lighting and the FOH staff dressed in pink. It is a pink paradise.

The staff are the best I have experienced at the Fringe, attentive and always smiling. One cannot help but enjoy the show after such a friendly start. There is ample bar service and an interval to stretch the legs or get some air and compare your experience with your friends.

Forbidden features a plethora of acts – aerial straps, aerial pole, sword swallowing, fire eating, hand stand balance, dance and humour abounding all managed by the MC, reminiscent of Joel Grey’s iconic MC from the musical Cabaret.

The costumes are dripping glamour and style with more than a hint of titillation, from beaded wigs, to flame red negligees, harnesses, feather fans, jewelled bodices and more.

Special mention must be made of the MC. Not only is he the master of ad lib, he also has an amazing singing voice and provides tequila shots in the middle of each act to the lucky audience members who make the most noise or tickle his fancy.

There are so many amazing moments in this production. Highlights include. – the ‘death drop’ in one of the aerial acts, ‘Fever’ featuring an artist in a flowing negligee, a pas de deux in Germanic uniforms, ‘I Was Made for Loving You Baby’ performed by 6 girls with pink guitars, ‘I Made You Look’ with Gucci handbags, and a beautiful aerial number performed in a net.

The lighting and sound are perfectly executed as is the visual element of the giant screen that is the backdrop for the production.

This company also have another earlier show, Zirque La La, in the same venue. This is their first Fringe in Adelaide and I hope, not their last!

Worth noting is a message of consent running through the production which is to be commended.

Forbidden is a feast for the eyes and the senses and is a must see at this year’s Fringe. It is cabaret with class!

Barry Hill OAM

To check out or round-up of Adelaide Fringe reviews, click here.