Premier Arts & Entertainment Coverage

So Fresh! Hits of the 2000s

March 6, 2025

Review by Markus Hamence – Performance date: Wednesday 5 March 2025, Gluttony, Adelaide, South Australia

I got along to The May Wirth at Gluttony for the 2025 Adelaide Fringe last night, I was instantly whooshed back to the early 2000s, a time when So Fresh CDs were the soundtrack of our lives, and I collected ALL of them. The buzz was real as the audience prepared for a nostalgic (is it really that long ago) journey through the hits that defined and influenced a generation.

So Fresh! Hits of the 2000s is a high-octane celebration of the music that made us dance, laugh, and sometimes cringe. Helmed by the dynamic Chloe Castledine and her exceptional ensemble, The Cast, this show is a nod to the enduring appeal of the noughties. The minute the venue lights dimmed and the stage lights shone the first chords of Let’s Get It Started reverberated through the tent, it was clear we were in for a freaking treat.

The Performances

Chloe Castledine’s stage presence is electrifying. Her vocals effortlessly navigated the diverse range of early 2000s hits, capturing the essence of each song while adding her unique flair and confidence. Alongside her, Josh Angeles; with a voice that packs a punch, delivered powerful performances, their chemistry evident in every duet. The live band, comprising talented Adelaide musicians, provided a robust musical backbone, ensuring each track resonated with authenticity and energy. It was bangin’ and obvious they love their music.

The Setlist

The show curated a playlist that had the audience singing along from start to finish. Highlights included:

Pop Anthems: Oops!… I Did It Again by Britney Spears and Bye Bye Bye by NSYNC had everyone dancing in their seats.
Rock Favorites: Bring Me to Life by Evanescence and Are You Gonna Be My Girl by Jet showcased the era’s rock influences.
R&B & Rap Hits: Smooth renditions of Beyonce & Jay Z nailed it and Without Me by Eminem brought a hot vibe to the evening.

Visuals and Choreography

Beyond the music, the show’s visual elements were a feast for the eyes. The choreography was tight (comprising of four talented dancers) and reminiscent of the iconic dance moves from the original music videos. Costume changes were frequent and meticulously designed, reflecting the bold and sometimes outrageous fashion trends of the 2000s.

Audience Engagement

One of the show’s standout features was its ability to engage the audience. Both Chloe and Josh know how to entertain and they frequently interacted with the crowd, encouraging sing-alongs and even a pop quiz that tested our Y2K knowledge. This interactive approach blurred the lines between performers and spectators, creating a communal trip down memory lane.

Conclusion

So Fresh! Hits of the 2000s is a trip, 100%; it’s a time capsule that rips you back to a decade filled with catchy tunes and unforgettable moments. Doesn’t matter if you lived through the 2000s or are a newbie, the show’s infectious energy and quality performances make it a must-see at this year’s Adelaide Fringe. As I left the venue, humming Mr. Brightside, I couldn’t help but feel a renewed appreciation for the music that shaped my youth. Hot stuff!