The Adelaide Fringe is the world’s second largest fringe festival, and has been wowing audiences since 1960. This year’s fringe features well over a thousand shows many of which would delight STARBURST readers. We dived deep to pick out five shows that we think our readers would love.
Swamplesque 2
We absolutely adored the first Swamplesque, which was a glorious mix of fairy tales, burlesque and Shrek. Swamplesque 2 premieres at the Adelaide Fringe, bringing fresh fun to an already amazing idea. Go see it if you can, especially as it’s likely to tour the world.
Coco The Time-Travelling Tart
Best known for viral social media posts in which London’s funniest social butterfly Coco says hilarious things to tourists, this national treasure in training has traveled all the way to Australia to share her wisdom with the people of Adelaide (and beyond). History, culture and couture collide in this must-see show.
A Kingdom of Fools
There was a time that we would describe a fantasy meets history style comedy show about bumbling knights and sassy maidens as Python-esque, but apparently all the cool kids reference Horrible Histories these days instead. (Which makes sense; Monty Python and the Holy Grail is over fifty years old now.) Described as deeply silly, we understand it’s an excellent way to spend a (k)night.
Space Comedy
Sometimes you just need to name a show for what it is. Combining science education with a touch of comedy, this critically acclaimed show sounds like the perfect bit of fun for STARBURST readers.
Star Wars: The Next Generation
With a title that will send some people straight to their keyboards to post on social media, British Comedian Dan Willis presents his latest geek-powered show. Dan has seen all the Star Wars movies, in the year they were released, and has decided to share his love of the films with his young daughter, with hilarious results.
The 2026 Adelaide Fringe runs from the 20th of Februrary to the 22nd of March, so if you happen to be on that side of the world, check it out. (Also check out our New Zealand Fringe Festival 2026 picks )
