ELXIR REVISED is a finely tuned, well developed and entertaining show. There is no question about that. The four male performers (Thomas Gorham, Callan Harris, Liam Dummer, Anthony Saltalamacchia) are at a peak of fitness and strength, delivering an impressive set of circus and acrobatic acts. Balancing on each other, on metal poles and a ladder, tumbling, sea sawing like a trampoline – I will not pretend to know the exact descriptor of each of the individual acts. They might not be original – all the more pleasure to see them down in real time. The show took considerable focus – on execution and safety – by performers, but they were also able to integrate with charm and polish a lot of clowning, choreography and a bit of sexiness. The latter was integrated in the smooth flowing show, and done with great self humour and chat with the audience. There is no doubt what was seen took a long time to develop, both through individual training and as a show.
The show had the narrative rubric of four scientists testing different elixirs of life from test tubes, and unpredictable consequences that border on absurd mayhem. Publicity for the show uses “post apocalyptic” as a descriptor, but that is interpreting the show too seriously. There is virtually no narration, characters or meaning – nor are these things intended. The show is an honest, finely honed and comedic display of acrobatic and sporting acts. If you’re in the mood it is a lot of fun.
My only reservation – or question – is one that could be put to a number of Fringe shows this year. The Fringe seems to be following the path of Adelaide’s Garden of Earthly Delights, foregrounding physical performances, cabaret and light comedy. “Party” and “soiree” are typical descriptors of shows. Of course other performance genres are included in the program – which it must said is very substantial, colourful and impressive.
I saw the performance that took place on the 30th August at the Fool’s Paradise venue at the Entertainment Quarter. This was a Head First Acrobats and Sydney Fringe Festival production.
