Party on, Dudes, back at Rhonda’s place …
We catch up with with one Australia’s favourite performers – Rhonda Burchmore – who this week will be closing the Wynnum Fringe with her very own Rhonda’s After Party.
You’re back by popular demand at Wynnum Fringe! How does it feel to return to Brisbane’s bayside with Rhonda’s After Party?
Well, after spending the last 11 months in a nun’s habit and sensible shoes, I’m absolutely thrilled to be getting back into my five-inch Jimmy Choos, sparkly gowns, big hair and makeup, and letting loose at Rhonda’s After Party.
You’ve had an incredible career across stage, screen and cabaret. What makes performing in the Spiegeltent at Wynnum Fringe so special for you?
Yes, I’ve been in the industry for 42 years and I never thought in a million years I’d be doing this kind of circus Spiegeltent show. But it’s the most empowering, fabulous, up-close and personal experience. Theatre, musicals and screen work are wonderful, but they’re scripted.
This is next level. It’s improvised, spontaneous and all about encouraging the audience to participate. It’s like coming back to Rhonda’s place after a few drinks with your besties and having a really, really good time. I love the element of circus and I’m in awe of all the performers. There’s the roar of the crowd, the smell of the greasepaint (so to speak) and it’s just magical.
You might like
As this year’s official festival ambassador, what does Wynnum Fringe mean to you and why do you think it’s such a special part of Queensland’s cultural calendar?
My goodness! Tom Oliver and his team are just remarkable. The story behind the Augathella Spiegeltent alone is worth visiting the venue for, even before you get to all the incredible entertainment. What an amazing achievement to have our own Australian Spiegeltent! I know the fancy ones from Austria and Germany are one thing, but I think it’s fabulous and so special that we’ve got this right here in Brisbane.
Tom and his team, along with the City of Brisbane, have resurrected this extraordinary tent for performers like us and I’m so passionate about that. I believe it should be an annual event and a must-see attraction for visitors. Every year, people should make their way to Wynnum Fringe, because it’s truly something special.
Subscribe for updates
For those who haven’t seen Rhonda’s After Party, what can audiences expect from the show? And should they prepare to be a little bit shocked?
Well, yes! They absolutely can expect to be a little shocked. It’s glamorous, high-energy and lots of fun, with circus, dance and music … all the good things you’d want at a party. It’s eye-popping, it’s funny and it’s just an incredible night out for adults-only. I wouldn’t suggest bringing the little ones!
Wynnum Fringe is known for mixing glamour with grit. How would you describe the vibe of the festival and why should people make the trip to the bay this July?
It’s absolutely wonderful and there’s truly something for everyone. Mirusia is performing, and she’s a beautiful soprano. There’s circus, rock, drag … so many incredible artists pouring their hearts and talent into every performance.
Wynnum Fringe has a fabulous mix of grit and glamour. It’s a fantastic program and I’m absolutely thrilled to be part of it. It’s one of those special events that reminds you why we all fell in love with live performance in the first place. So, come down to this wonderful environment and support the festival so we can keep it running forevermore.
Rhonda’s After Party, July 16 to July 20, tickets from $59.