Freakshow

Welcome to the big top of modern absurdity, where spectacle and reality blur. Freakshow is a raucous, boundary-pushing theatrical ride that traces the evolution of freakshows from carnival tents to today’s social media circus. This fast-paced, darkly comedic play holds up a funhouse mirror to society, exposing how our hunger for fame and validation turns us all into performers.  

Set in a surreal, ever-shifting carnival, the flamboyant Ringmaster guides the audience through satirical vignettes filled with sharp wit, physical comedy, and biting pop culture commentary. Each act introduces a new "freak" archetype—Instagram influencers, reality stars, and politicians—reimagined for the digital age.  

Freakshow isn’t just a critique; it’s a celebration of the weird and wonderfully human. Breaking conventions with meta-humour and audience participation, pulling you into the chaos, making you laugh one moment and question your role in the spectacle the next.  

By the final act, the carnival collapses, leaving everyone to ask: In a world where everyone’s performing, who’s watching? And what does it cost to entertain—and be entertained?  

Freakshow is a wild, thought-provoking kaleidoscope of humour and heart. Buckle up—this circus is unforgettable.

“Crazy, wild fun! … Love the social commentary!” Suzie Miller 

(Olivier Award Winning Playwright, Prima Facie)

“Loved it! … It needs to be made into a movie” Patrick Kennedy

(Producer and Director, The Flea, Sophia=Wisdom The Cliffs)

CAST: 

The Ringmaster: Beatrice McBride

The Bird Lady / The Heckler: Dom Viney

The Conjoined Twins: Cordelia McBride, Lucas Moctezuma

The Tattooed Man / The Savage: Ryan Jakob

The Bearded Lady: Patricia Ford

The Strong Woman: Kurt Bayly

The Cone Tromboner: Slide McBride

CREATIVES:

Playwright / Director / Producer / Production: Beatrice McBride

Assistant Director / Sound and Lighting Design and Technician / Producer: Hugo Morris

Assistant / Dramaturg: Patricia Ford

Marketing / Producer: Clayton McBride

An approx running time: 50 mins