Okay, so, I know what you’re thinking: “Bisexual Intellectuals? That sounds a bit… pretentious.” Trust me, it’s not. It’s more like a glitter-covered, laugh-out-loud, sing-along party with some seriously switched on, confident and wildly talented queers.
This was my first Fringe show, and let me tell you, it sets the bar high. Imagine walking in to an intimate performance space, a disco ball, and three incredibly talented comedic triple threats who somehow manage to be both hilarious and thought-provoking. They’ve bottled the comedic gold at the end of a rainbow.
Millicent, Jemma, and Rosie are absolute powerhouses. Best friends in real life and no strangers to the Fringe Festival circuit individually, their chemistry together is off the charts, their timing is impeccable, and their songs will get stuck in your head for days. They tackle everything from bisexual stereotypes to vaginismus, and they do it with such wit and charm that you’ll be laughing until your cheeks hurt.
This 60 minutes belly laughing experience has it all, from a killer tap routine, an Irish dittie about lesbian boyfriends with some wicked harmonies, EDM, Eurotrash, Rapping… you may even even learn a thing or two about bisexual representation.
One of the things I loved most about this show was the audience involvement. The performers created a real sense of community, making everyone feel welcome and included.
The original songs were also a huge highlight, showcasing the trio’s clear songwriting abilities and diverse musical styles. The harmonies were also flawlessly tight, highlighting the sheer musical talent each of them very clearly possess.
My favorite moments in theatre are the unscripted ones. It’s the live element that makes it magical. Though the performance was largely seamless, there was a hilarious moment when a song started at the wrong cue and the lyrics got a bit tangled, but everyone, including the performers, laughed through it. Their grace in handling the mishap made it even more delightful. It was a reminder that chaos can be embraced and shared, and that we are all humans creating a unique and unforgettable experience.
If you’re looking for a show that’s equal parts hilarious and empowering, Bisexual Intellectuals is a must-see. It’s like making three new glittery queer friends in one night, and trust me, that’s a feeling you won’t forget. It is worth noting this show is very much rated M15+ and it may not be one to bring your grandma to due to adult themes and course language. However, so long as you are open minded and ready for a good laugh, whether you’re a longtime fan of the Fringe or a newcomer to the festival scene this show is absolutely worth checking out and deserves a sold out season.
Runs 2 October 2024 – 13 October 2024 for The Melbourne Fringe Festival
