Fringe offers Hans-on experience

Music

With so many weird and wonderful acts in Adelaide during the Fringe and Festival of Arts, it would be easy to get lost in the crowd. But one performer who's already proven to be a standout is University of Adelaide music student Matt Gilbertson.

Matt, as his alter-ego "Hans", is presenting The Showpony Tour at the Mars Bar nightclub until 7 March.

He's just one of many students, graduates and staff of the University's Elder Conservatorium of Music doing their part to add to the cultural feast that is Fringe and Festival time.

Matt's über-creation, Hans, has certainly been making a name for himself since he debuted in his "super-hot pants" in 2003 as part of the highly successful Berlin Cabaret. Since then, Hans has gone on to regular spots at Adelaide's Comix Comedy Cellars and more recently at Boho Bar, Parkside, where he is the weekly feature performance.

Hans has become a much-loved character in Adelaide and interstate with appearances in Sydney, Melbourne and on the Adelaide corporate circuit. His quick wit and good humour have enabled him to appear on various radio programs and he is now a celebrity gossip reporter for Nova 91.9's breakfast program.

The Showpony Tour involves Hans, his four-piece band, dancers and special guests as they explore cabaret classics of yesterday and today. The tunes have been selected from the great showponies of the musicals Cabaret and Chicago, and from other modern-day showponies, such as Madonna and
Britney Spears.

"This show is more than a cabaret performance, it is an event of spectacular proportions that will CHANGE YOUR LIFE," Hans said. (The emphasis is his).

The Showpony Tour - an opportunity to find your inner showpony - is presented by Matt Gilbertson at 8.15pm from 27 February until 14 March at The Mars Bar, 120 Gouger Street, Adelaide. Tickets are $20.