Utterly chaotic, but brilliantly presented — a wonderful way to spend a few hours with your favourite hotel staff
Presented by: Interactive Theatre International
Reviewed: 23 February, 2025
I love a good British comedy. The script, the execution of the humour – all the elements that make the perfect comedy. The classic Fawlty Towers would have to be right up there as one of my all time favourites. It’s no surprise that I am a repeat offender when it comes to attending the Fringe favourite, Faulty Towers The Dining Experience.
For two hours audiences are immersed in the chaotic world of Basil, Sybil and Manuel. Guests are welcomed in the foyer of The Terrace Hotel and once Basil and Manuel arrive, you very quickly come to the realisation that anything can and most certainly will happen. Strap yourselves in, let any fears you might have about the words ‘interactive theatre’ go and let these three incredible actors sweep you away.
The 2025 Adelaide Fringe company features Lara Dignam as Sybil, Jed McKinney as Basil and Scott Middleton as the innocent Manuel. These three fine actors work perfectly together, bouncing off each other in ways that leave the diners in fits of laughter. Each has captured the mannerisms of these famous characters to perfection, however it is Dignam’s Sybil laugh-snort that will leave a lasting impression on this reviewer and his family. You would swear you were hearing Prunella Scales herself.
The script for Faulty Towers The Dining Experience is brilliant, paying homage to the original TV series. However, the magic for this show lies in the improvisational skills of the cast when they are working the room and talking to the audiences. You, and they, never know what might happen. Between the scripted moments Sybil, Basil and Manuel roam the room as you would expect in any restaurant, talking to the guests. They hold character brilliantly and nothing seems to faze them.
As part of this two-hour show, diners are treated to a delicious three course meal, including a hearty minestrone soup (with garlic bread), roasted chicken breast with a spiced couscous and jus and, to finish, a decadent chocolate mousse with fresh berries.
When there are so many offerings in the Fringe guide, you sometimes need a show where you can sit back, and enjoy a meal and a good laugh. Faulty Towers the Dining Experience runs for the whole Fringe and is well worth a visit. But book soon, as it tends to sell out quickly.
**if you are looking for a kid-friendly show with the same vibes as Faulty Towers, check out the company’s children’s show, Signor Baffo, running every weekend during the Fringe in Gluttony.
https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/signor-baffo-af2025
Interactive Theatre International’s sister show, Confetti & Chaos, which drops you into a surprise wedding reception, runs the send half of the Fringe at the Royal Coachhouse.
https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/confetti-chaos-af2025
Reviewed by Ben Stefanoff
Venue: Botanical Room – The Terrace Hotel
Season: 21 February – 23 March, 2025
Duration: 2 hours
Tickets: $90 – $113 (plus booking fees)
Bookings: https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/faulty-towers-the-dining-experience-af2025
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