Circus sensation and fringe frenzy to ignite Entertainment Quarter

Hold on to your hats, Sydney…something is brewing at The Entertainment Quarter this spring: it involves gravity-defying thrills, a whirlwind of drag, boogie, and rock and roll, and two very different yet equally iconic tents.

Eat, drink, and be merry

The Sydney Fringe Festival began in 1994 as a curated festival, much in the vein of its New York counterpart, but has morphed over the years into a more Edinburgh-style, open-access event featuring stand-up comedy, music and theater, cabaret and burlesque, circus acts, visual arts, and more.

This year’s lineup will feature some stellar performances from the Soweto Gospel Choir, Junkyard Beats, and two musical homages to the 27 Club artists and Daft Punk.

The festival also highlights the jaw-dropping visuals and comedic brilliance of cabaret and burlesque with shows like Happy Endings, The Stripsons, Club D’Amour: Back Door, and We’re All Mad In Here. A unique addition to the lineup is Tender, a circus cabaret act that explores love and desire through the queer gaze.

The Poof Doof Drag Brunch is every bit as entertaining as the name implies while fellow troupe Party Ghost is all set to bring a unique fusion of drag, circus, and theater to the stage. The antics don’t end there, however as Sydney Fringe is bringing with it one of the best lineups of circus acts you could find under one roof.

Well, technically, two roofs.

What’s Under the Big Top?

The beloved Spiegeltent, or “mirror tent,” has provided a home to the fringe elements that make this festival a hit in every city. But it isn't the only tent going up this season: Cirque du Soleil’s Under the Big Top is all set to deliver a grand ol’ time at The Entertainment Quarter as its high-flying acts soar right on by in the Mexican-themed LUZIA.

Don your florals for springtime, head on down to The Entertainment Quarter, and treat yourself to a bit of what’s on the fringe. Don’t forget your sunscreen!