Awarded Best Fringe Show in 2024, Infamous is back and amazes once again with jaw-dropping circus delights. Located in a big top tent in Ellis Park on the western outskirts of the city, Infamous was first created in 2017 by 6th generation circus performer Joseph Ashton.
Formerly known as Ashton’s Circus, the company is the longest surviving circus in Australia. Originally acquired by James Henry Ashton in 1850, it is still very much a family affair with many Ashton descendants working in the show. This includes 7th generation performer Merrik Ashton, who recently forayed into producing for the first time with LASSÚ, premiering at Fringe World Perth.
The family company feel starts as soon as you step into the big top, with members of the cast on double duty at the ticket office, merch stall and bar. This gives a down to earth quality synonymous with a traditional circus, a welcome change from the norm.
The Wheel of Death is first up and it is a wild ride! Jansen Grant and Merrik Ashton execute a series of stunts around this sky high contraption. Jansen performs with complete daredevil abandon both inside and on top of the wheel. At one point, while jumping rope, Jansen’s foot became caught, but he skilfully maintained his balance atop of the wheel whilst managing to detangle. It was a hair raising moment.
Merrik also impresses as a soloist on the slack wire, performing an entertaining routine involving balance, juggling and unicycle work. He is a highly skilled professional and his 30 years in the business makes him a master performer and compelling to watch. He also wows on the aerial straps, demonstrating incredible strength.
Dante Ashton is a mesmerising talent who performs a dazzling solo aerial act and continues to compel every time she is on stage. Her duo aerial silk performance alongside Mimi Lenoire is a sight to behold. Together their routine is an impressive display of technical strength, grace and artistry. Mimi’s solo pole act is also stands out, highlighting her strength and control as a performer.
Cody Harrington adds a sense of fun with his juggling act. He has a natural charm with the audience and looks fabulous in his black sequinned costume.
The hands down highlight is the final act, the high flying trapeze. Featuring Rikki Ashton, flanked by Dante Ashton, Michelle Ashton-Jarman and Bekki Ashton, one by one they take turns on the trapeze, opposite Jansen Grant working as the trapeze catcher.
Rikki Ashton is the only person in Australia currently performing the full twisting triple somersault on the high trapeze. His first attempt of the night results in a landing on the nets, but his second attempt delivers the goods. The crowd goes crazy. He then has a go at a quadruple somersault. There are only a few performers in the world who can achieve this feat. The trick eludes Rikki for now, but hopefully it’s just a matter of time.
Not to be completely outdone by her brother, Dante successfully attempts a high trapeze manoeuvre wearing a hood over her head, rendering her completely unable to see. It’s absolute insanity, but she succeeds and the crowd goes crazy again.
The comedy cabaret elements of Infamous are a bit more hit and miss. Maddy Ashton has great vocals but feels underused in her singing role. Dancey Rae and Ian Richardson work well for the most part providing the clowning elements. However the adults only component feels jarring and takes away from the incredible circus acts, particularly the nudity and partial nudity.
Infamous runs for a full two hours including intermission, and the performers are available for a group photo after the show (for a fee). The mingling and chatting however, is free and adds another down to earth touch, so stick around if you want to meet the performers after the show. Be sure to arrive early to avoid parking stress as there are limited spots in the surrounding roads.
Infamous is an electrifying spectacle that promises a high-energy, no-holds-barred experience. For those who want to see some of the highest calibre circus acts on offer in Australia, step right up. Just remember to leave the kids at home.
Infamous runs until 23 March at Ellis Park, Corner of West Terrace and Sir Donald Bradman Drive as part of Adelaide Fringe 2025.
Tickets: https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/infamous-af2025
Website: https://www.infamous.net.au/
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/infamoustheshow/
Photo credits: Mark Stephens, Your Music Pix
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