Adelaide Fringe

Adelaide Fringe Review: Echoes of Silence is music reimagined

The performance all the way from Hong Kong, is a highly technically skilled show, using everyday objects to create an ensemble.

4

Presented by: Toolbox Percussion
Reviewed: 4 March 2026

Walking into Echoes of Silence – A Contemporary Percussion Odyssey, it was clear that this would be no ordinary percussion performance. The show, presented by Hong Kong’s Toolbox Percussion, turns everyday sounds into a playful musical.

The performance opened with a curious scene, the performer sneaking up behind the crowd, fiddling with an old radio, changing frequencies in what seemed like deliberate bursts. It’s was a slow start, but once the second performer joined, the atmosphere sped up.

The duo, relying solely on their hands as the instrument, created an ensemble of clapping, with synchronised rhythm and precision. Although if there was a clap out of place, you’d know, which showed the concentration the performers put into every beat of the performance.

The story then began to unfold. The scene transforming into a chaotic restaurant blending chefs and wait staff. With two more musicians joining, the four knew how each other worked – clearly use to each others presence from hours practising together.

The make shift kitchen became their orchestra: tables, chopsticks, bowls and even newspapers were transformed into music. The performers dance, act and improvise around these sounds, highlighting the beauty of rhythm in everyday life. Their clever ability to create music was extremely skilled, the technical aspect behind the tempos and beats was not something a regular person may uncover, but to the trained ear it can be appreciated.

The actors were what made the story playful, with even a couple hints of comedy throughout the show and facial expressions that you were able to read like a book.

The venue at the Dom Polski hall was what failed to match the same technical skill as the musicians, and bring the performance to life. From a spectator perspective, it would be hard to watch and grasp every aspect of the show from anywhere but the front row. Placed on a higher stage, or better venue this show would’ve felt more enticing to every viewer.

The performance is something that can be appreciated to fellow musicians, and artists who understand the patterns and beats that aren’t easy to recreate with mundane objects. Although it may not be everyone’s cup of tea, the technical skill and timing by these musicians can be appreciated.

Hold no expectations when walking into the Echoes of Silence.

Venue: The Garage International @ Dom Polski
Season: Until 7th March 2026
Duration: 45 minutes
Tickets: $35 (plus booking fee)
Bookings: here

More News

To Top