Encore & Applause: A Fringe Experience We’ll Never Forget!
Wow – what a ride! Encore & Applause was everything we dreamed of and more. After 2 sold-out shows at The Vault, Fool’s Paradise, we are still buzzing with excitement, pride, and just a little exhaustion! Bringing this unique fusion of Calisthenics and live vocals to the Adelaide Fringe was a huge moment for ACTC, and we couldn’t be happier with how it was received by audiences, reviewers and especially our amazing cast.
A Celebration of Calisthenics and Musical Theatre
Taking on the iconic works of Cameron Mackintosh was no small task, but our incredible dancers and the powerhouse vocals of JD Smith brought these legendary numbers to life in a way that had our audiences captivated. We showcased songs from Mary Poppins, Cats, Oliver, Hamilton, Les Mis, Phantom of the Opera and Miss Saigon - and with Rebecca Norsworthy and Brooke Brown choreographing, every moment of the show was filled with fun, joy and whole lot of great Cali.
The Reviews Are In!
We were blown away by the feedback from both audiences and critics. Sarah Chumley from Kids in Adelaide called the show "next-level talent," highlighting the infectious energy of our performers and the joy of seeing these classic musical moments come to life. She also gave a big shout-out to our stunning costumes and the family-friendly atmosphere.
Hayley Simmons from Be The Human Element described our fusion of dance and live music as "a perfect match," praising the way our dancers connected with the audience and delivered those signature ‘wow’ moments. She also applauded the skill and control of our performers, comparing their technique to top-tier contemporary ballet dancers.
Standout Moments We’ll Never Forget
One of the most talked-about performances was Ayanna Burgan-Minniecon’s heartfelt rendition of Burn from Hamilton – a show-stopping moment that brought about a few tears in the audience. The energy of You’ve Got to Pick a Pocket or Two and Step in Time had the whole venue buzzing, and we loved bringing Calisthenic rods and clubs to the stage in a way that had newbies asking, "How do they do that?!"
Pushing Boundaries, Making History
Performing in The Vault at Fool’s Paradise was an experience we enjoyed so much – it was intimate, immersive, and electric. This show proved once again that elite Calisthenic dancers don’t just belong in competitions – they belong on the world stage. We’re so proud to be carving out new pathways for our performers and showing what’s possible when you blend technical skill, artistry, and storytelling.
To everyone who came, clapped, cheered, and supported us – thank you. We are beyond grateful. And to those who missed out on tickets… well, let’s just say we’ve got plenty more in store. Watch this space – ACTC is just getting started!