Several standout shows and performers originating from the Adelaide Fringe found major success at this year’s Edinburgh Fringe, earning prestigious awards, five-star reviews, and sold-out performances.

Leading the Adelaide cohort was dance visionary Lewis Major, whose productions ‘Tryptic’ and ‘Lien’ took the Edinburgh Fringe by storm. Major’s work was not only awarded the coveted Spirit of the Fringe—recognising the shows that best embody the festival’s creativity and diversity—but also won The List Award for the best performance from Adelaide, solidifying him as a force in contemporary dance.

Major’s choreography received glowing reviews from ‘The Scotsman’, which hailed his work for its "mesmerising choreography and emotional depth." The critical acclaim was matched by audience enthusiasm, with all his performances selling out. Major’s success at Adelaide Fringe, backed by grants from its foundation Arts Unlimited, paved the way for this triumph. Winning the House of Oz Purse prize at Adelaide Fringe, sponsored by creative director and philanthropist Georgie Black, helped him take his talent to the global stage in Edinburgh.

Reflecting on the experience, Major said, "Edinburgh Fringe 2024 has been a life changer for our dance company, and it all started at Adelaide Fringe. The support we received, particularly through the Adelaide Fringe Fund, was critical in helping us get here."

Through both Adelaide and Edinburgh Fringe's arts marketplaces, Major’s company is now booked to perform in multiple countries, underscoring Adelaide Fringe's role as a springboard for global success.

Another standout from South Australia, Michelle Pearson, wowed Edinburgh audiences with her cabaret show ‘Down Under: The Songs That Shaped Australia’, blending powerful vocals with a narrative exploring Australian identity and culture. Like Major, Pearson also won the House of Oz prize to bring her show from Adelaide to Edinburgh, where it received five-star reviews.

Critics praised Pearson’s ability to weave humour and cultural commentary into her performances, marking her as a star in the making on the international cabaret scene. ‘Down Under’ was a hit with audiences, further elevating Pearson’s profile.

Adelaide Fringe talent continued to shine, with Britt Plummer bringing her show ‘Fools Paradise’ from Adelaide to Edinburgh, enjoying sell-out performances and great reviews. Meanwhile, Sam Kissajukian, whose show ‘300 Paintings’ was a standout at Adelaide Fringe, found similar success in Edinburgh. Performing at Summerhall, Kissajukian was shortlisted for awards and enjoyed sold-out performances, solidifying his place in the international arts scene.

Seasoned performers Garry Starr and Leah Shelton, both Adelaide Fringe veterans, further bolstered the Australian presence at Edinburgh. Starr’s eclectic show ‘Classic Penguins’ wowed audiences at Pleasance, earning him an award and rave reviews for his inventive take on classic literature. Meanwhile, Shelton’s dark comedy Batshit at the Traverse Theatre earned her The Mental Health Foundation Award, showcasing her ability to combine lived experience with humour.

Michaela Burger who also received essential funding for the development of her show from House of Oz made a profound impact with her deeply emotive show Grace, delving into themes of love, loss, and resilience. Burger’s poignant storytelling struck a chord with Edinburgh audiences, continuing her streak of acclaim after her success at Adelaide Fringe. Her show ‘The State of Grace’, based on the words of sex work decriminalisation activist Grace Bellavue, earned her critical praise and spotlighted her versatility as a performer.

Virginia Gay, director of the Adelaide Cabaret Festival, wowed audiences with her hit adaptation of ‘Cyrano’, a witty, emotionally rich reimagining of the classic play. Gay’s Edinburgh run earned her multiple awards and highlighted her as a leading figure in both Adelaide and Edinburgh’s cabaret scenes.

The extraordinary success of Adelaide Fringe artists at Edinburgh Fringe 2024 reinforces the festival’s role as a launchpad for artists on the world stage. With a proven track record of nurturing talent that transcends borders, Adelaide Fringe is becoming more than just a local event—it’s a key player in the global arts ecosystem.

The achievements of these artists, whether in dance, cabaret, or comedy, set a new standard for what’s possible, ensuring that Adelaide Fringe remains at the forefront of creative innovation. Registrations for Adelaide Fringe 2025 are now open, offering artists from across the globe the opportunity to follow in these footsteps and create their own pathways to international success.

The success of Adelaide Fringe artists at the 2024 Edinburgh Fringe highlights the growing global impact of South Australia's premier arts festival. This success is fueled by initiatives like the Honey Pot arts marketplace, which connects artists with international delegates, leading to touring deals that expand their reach globally. With a third of Fringe shows participating, Honey Pot has become a critical launchpad for artists like Lewis Major and Michelle Pearson, enabling them to secure international performances and awards. Adelaide Fringe’s economic contribution further underscores its importance, along with much-needed philanthropy from organisations such as House of Oz. In 2024 alone, the festival generated $121 million in new money for South Australia and created over 13,000 jobs, highlighting its role in both cultural and economic growth. This economic and cultural powerhouse not only supports artists locally but ensures their work resonates on the world stage, affirming both Adelaide and Fringe’s status as a global arts incubator.