Reviewed by: Fringe Feed
Review by Scott Bradbrook | 03 March 2024

Once upon a time, Little Red Riding Hood wandered into the enchanted forest in search of love. And as fate would have it, the Big Bad Wolf was hosting a dating show with the most eligible bachelors in the land. What could possibly go wrong?!?

Returning after a killer 2023 season, Happy Endings elevates fairy tales for a more mature audience, promising an hour of death-defying acrobatics, side-tickling humour, and killer dance choreography. Featuring Rapunzel, Rapunzel with a beard, Puss in Boots (and nothing else), and Jack’s massive… beanstalk, the performance is sure to leave you double checking your childhood story books. 

The performers breathe new life to the fairy tales we all know and love, putting a much darker spin on characters like Snow White, Maleficent, and Prince Charming. From Amber Scates’ live singing and Nat Oakes’ pyrotechnics to Matthew Pope’s aerial silks and Melina Mall’s fly pole work, the performers are a testament to their craft, leaving audiences wondering how mere humans can pull off such fantastical feats. 

Though each performer boasts talents far greater than any words can encapsulate, two highlights of the show were the Big Bad Wolf, perfectly portrayed by Fay Rocious, and Prince Charming, well suited for Christian Nimri. Fay’s wild wit and flair for being fabulous add a new layer of complexity to the often overlooked villain. On the other side of things, Christian’s charismatic personality really shines through in his character, showing how someone so charming can still have a dark side. 

A show with everything you could want out of a performance, Tone & Cheek have done it once again. Embrace the freaky side of fairy tales and find your happily ever after with Happy Endings!