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This show belongs to the Adelaide Fringe 2026 season. This season is now over.

Picture of a man with a Crown. Title: The Last Audition
Image of a man with a book about King Lear
Image of a man gesturing to the side
Adelaide Fringe 2026

The Last Audition

A once-celebrated Shakespearean actor returns to an empty stage to rehearse King Lear and prove he can still live independently. As memory falters, voices from his past intrude, turning rehearsal into reckoning. Darkly funny and deeply moving, this intimate solo play explores ageing, caregiving, legacy, and the courage to keep stepping into the light.
Written and performed by international actor Paul Shearman, it blends Shakespeare with contemporary storytelling and emotional truth, resonating with audiences across generations. Perfect for Fringe-goers seeking powerful, human theatre. World Premiere performance.

Presented by: Paul Shearman

Born into a military family in Virginia, raised in California, and educated in Oregon, Paul Shearman discovered theatre in high school and never let it go. Though he earned a degree in Political Science and International Affairs, the stage kept calling. Work in Washington, D.C. and New York City reignited his passion for performance across theatre, film, and television. Twice set aside, acting always returned—this time to stay. Years as an entrepreneur gave him resilience and business acumen he now brings to the craft. Ongoing training sharpens his skills, while collaborations on stage and set fuel inspiration. Today, his performances span China, the United States, and the United Kingdom, with London as the newest chapter. Each role deepens his commitment to storytelling.
Theatre and Physical Theatre • Drama
United States • World Premiere
 
Fringe Fund Recipient
Reviews
  •   4
  •   18
  •   1
  •   1
  •   9
  •          

    A powerful fusion of King Lear and ageing, delivered with humility, humour, and commanding talent—captivating from start to finish. - David Cronin, The Clothesline

  •          

    A thoughtful and gently affecting play, exploring ageing, memory, and theatre. - Kym Clayton, The Barefoot Review

  •          

    A masterclass in Shakespearean acting… a moving reflection on ageing and identity.” - Jane Ford, The Advertiser

  •          

    Shearman draws the audience in from the first line… a performance that feels intimate and deeply human. - Isha Juneja, The List

  •          

    Stupid, lovable, hilarious, clever, and never not entertaining. - Doug Phillips, Glam Adelaide

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Suitability & warnings

Content rating: G
Family friendly: No
Target audience: High School (15-17)

Accessibility

 
High audio content

Presenter

Presented by: Paul Shearman

Born into a military family in Virginia, raised in California, and educated in Oregon, Paul Shearman discovered theatre in high school and never let it go. Though he earned a degree in Political Science and International Affairs, the stage kept calling. Work in Washington, D.C. and New York City reignited his passion for performance across theatre, film, and television. Twice set aside, acting always returned—this time to stay. Years as an entrepreneur gave him resilience and business acumen he now brings to the craft. Ongoing training sharpens his skills, while collaborations on stage and set fuel inspiration. Today, his performances span China, the United States, and the United Kingdom, with London as the newest chapter. Each role deepens his commitment to storytelling.