The Bard goes hard in this rapid-paced, interactive Shakespeare romp, and audiences are more than happy to keep up. Fakespeare marks the return of Patrick Hercamp to the Adelaide Fringe after a seven-year hiatus. Judging by the warm recognition from sections of the crowd, many remembered his earlier work with theatre trio Sound & Fury, signalling a loyal and enthusiastic Adelaide fan base.

This is a hold-on-to-your-seat celebration of Shakespeare, delivered at breakneck speed and peppered with audience participation and recurring catchphrases. Don’t be fooled by the title — Fakespeare is remarkably accessible. You don’t need to know your iambic pentameter to enjoy the ride — enthusiasm and a willingness to play along are more than enough. While the audience on the night skewed adult, the show’s fast-paced storytelling, humour and interactive style would make it enjoyable for children aged around ten and up, or anyone ready for fast-paced, playful storytelling.

The show is highly interactive, and Hercamp takes the time to warm the audience up before launching into the chaos. By the time the rapid-fire storytelling begins, Hercamp is effectively conducting the audience, cueing responses with gestures and key words that turn the crowd into an active part of the performance. The result is participation that feels joyful rather than forced.

Drawing on a range of Shakespeare’s most recognisable works, Hercamp moves swiftly between plots, characters and themes, stitching them together in a way that feels spontaneous and responsive to the audience. The show jumps effortlessly from laugh-out-loud absurdity to moments of genuine sincerity. Hercamp’s love for Shakespeare, theatre and live performance is palpable, and despite the speed and silliness, the emotional beats never feel disingenuous.

In the open-air setting of The Squeaker, the energy feels communal and perfectly suited to Fringe.

To go or not to go? Please go. Fakespeare is fast, funny and well worth your time.