Vaudeville, Bongo Club, Aug 8 (Skinnyfest 2)

Described as a chaotic mix of circus, sideshow, theatre, burlesque, comedy, music, and performance art, the Vaudeville Cabaret club is a Fringe event not to be missed. The veritable cavalcade of entertainment can be seen at the Bongo Club, and because the line-up alters nightly, it gives the audience a taste of acts at other festival shows. Tuesday's audience were spellbound by the eclectic mix of talent from across the globe; from the rapier wit of singer and compere Dusty Limits to the startling quick work of Quebec diablo star Asher Tea.

The evening was more music-orientated than others have been, with performances from The Love Boat Big Band who do exactly what the name suggests, and powerful cabaret tunes from songstress Taylor Wilson. The line-up continued to impressed with US singer-songwriter Dayna Kurtz playing in her Fringe First appearance exclusive to the Vaudeville stage. Soulful without being melancholy she received roaring applause from the packed bar.
The audience gawked in wonder at the high polished acrobatic antics of the Suspended Motion, a man and woman team who were first introduced at last year's Vaudeville and developed their act from thereon. Duo American Vaudeville provided light, if not rather brief, comic relief, and juggler extraordinaire Joy Berger showed everyone why he still retains the crown for circus antics. A full set from New York quartet Luminescent Orchestra from 1am ensured revellers had one of the best night's the festival can offer. Dubbed gypsy punk, the band's mix of high pitch violins, beat box lyrics and sumptuous double bass gave their closing set a funky vibe that had everyone on the dancefloor. [Roxanne Farrell]