Reviewed by: Adelover
Review by Stephanie Rillo | 13 March 2023

There’s only one week left of Fringe, and if you’re anything like me you’ll have not even covered a quarter of your Fringe quota to keep you satisfied until 2024. Fortunately there’s still time to make a mad dash into the CBD and satisfy your Fringe cravings with the award-winning show, Paul Dabek Presents - London Calling. The best Fringe shows incorporate variety, spectacle, comedy, and just a *little* bit of spice. London Calling mixes the perfect concoction of all these aspects to give audiences one hour of side-splitting, awe-inspiring, wondrous entertainment.

London Calling is performed in the deceptively large venue ‘The Vault’ within Fool’s Paradise, a handy little spot in Tarntanyangga (Victoria Square) surrounded by acrobatics and mini golf to keep you entertained until admittance. Once inside The Vault, prepare yourself as Paul Dabek and his multi-talented, global cast of entertainers shock, surprise and stupefy you. First up is Paul, the charismatic namesake of the show that embodies all the quick-wit you’d expect of an English native, and keeps the show on track with his humour and skilful hands. Next you’ll meet Antje Pode, the nimble-footed German juggler who carries her act with grace and charm. Captain Frodo, the Guinness World Record-breaking contortionist from Norway will have you howling with laughter as he defies anatomical boundaries with wholesome enthusiasm. Charlie Caper, another Swedish native, will perform the classic tricks you love with his own unique twist, and keep you on the edge of your seat, eyes glued to the stage and always guessing how, how, HOW? Last but certainly not least we have our homegrown talent. Chelsea Angell, an hula hooping heroine who sparks retro flair and tricks so quick you’ll blink and miss it; and Shaunah Johnson, an aerialist who wouldn’t be a stretch to call the Queen of her craft (this’ll make more sense if you go and see the show).

Paul Dabek Presents - London Calling is the perfect excuse to wander outside of Gluttony and outside of the Garden, and to experience more of what the Fringe has to offer. This is the show’s inaugural Fringe run and while it promises a lot, it delivers even more. Expect one hour of electric, high-energy, enthusiastic performances that will have you simultaneously enthralled in the present and giddy for what’s next.