Reviewed by: Glam Adelaide
Review by Kristin Stefanoff | 19 February 2023
Have you ever wished you could be a part of one your favourite TV shows? Faulty Towers The Dining Experience gives you the opportunity to do just that. Based on the classic TV series, Fawlty Towers, this show immerses you in a 3-course dining experience that is chaotic, frenetic, and packed with hilarity. Our dinner is hosted by the volatile Basil (Jamie Burgess), unflappable Sybil (Eilannin Harris-Black), and loveable Manuel (Sean Harrison). These three remarkable actors have their characters down to a T. The walk, the mannerisms, the accent, the melody and rhythm of the character’s speech — every detail has been considered and perfected. Burgess, Harris-Black and Harrison work well together, with the scripted parts of the evening merging seamlessly with the improvised and audience interaction segments. Furthermore, none of the three performers are fazed in the slightest when diners throw something their way (figuratively, though there was also plenty of things being literally thrown across the room as well!), integrating comments by the audience into their dialogue in a way that felt completely natural. Fans of the original show will recognise themes that appear during the course of the evening, though much of the dialogue and interaction is improvised in the style of the characters and is completely new material. A round of applause must also go to the excellent staff at The Terrace Hotel, who not only served an excellent dinner, but also came and dealt with the aftermath of the Faultys’ antics with good humour and grace. A venue highly recommended for an evening out. For a wonderful meal and a hilarious show, Faulty Towers The Dining Experience is an absolute must-see this Fringe.