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It’s been less than three weeks since Adelaide Fringe wrapped up, but we’re already having withdrawals.

From 15 February – 17 March, Adelaide definitely earnt its title of Radelaide. As Fringe took over, the city came to life; theatre, comedy and of course circus arts took centre stage! Over 400 venues played host to acts from all over the world, including some stellar shows from our own backyard.

NICA graduate shows were countless at Adelaide Fringe, and graduates also featured in By A Thread, Rouge, The Circus Firemen, Railed, Marawa the Amazing, 360 Allstars, DNA and Chasing Smoke, to name a few.

This not only provided an opportunity for our graduates to showcase their skills, but also created an occasion for the circus community to come together. Festivals like Fringe act as informal reunions for circus students and graduates, who not only perform together but hang out together in between shows.

YUCK Circus, made up of NICA graduates and other cast members, are the perfect embodiment of this supportive, innovative community. They certainly did everybody proud by taking home the Adelaide Fringe Emerging Artist 2019 award. The company, founded by 2018 graduate Georgia Deguara, were also selected to take part in Edinburgh Festival Fringe in the UK!

Georgia was not the only 2018 graduate to hit the ground running. Fellow 2018 NICA graduates, Poppy Fairbairn and Zion Martyn, performed adagio in Circus Oz’s shows Bubblegum Cabaret and NEON. Also in the Class of 2018 was clown Ciara Thorburn. She converted her character from last year’s NICA Showcase into a children’s show that she performed as part of the Festival.

Whilst Adelaide Fringe may be over for now, it has certainly shown us how it’s done. We can’t wait for Melbourne’s turn!

Image features NICA graduates Poppy Fairbairn and Zion Martyn performing in Circus Oz. Photography by Mark Turner Images.