Review by Markus Hamence – Trash Test Dummies Circus – Performance date: Sunday 15 February 2026. Garden Of Unearthly Delights, Adelaide, South Australia
The Garden of Unearthly Delights is already buzzing in it’s preview week (from Friday 13 February), but step into Trash Test Dummies Circus and the energy rockets into full Fringe mayhem. Created by Dummies Corp, this wildly inventive circus-comedy turns everyday wheelie bins into instruments of chaos, comedy and astonishing physical skill – and yes, it’s as brilliantly bonkers as it sounds.
I took my nieces, Scarlett (8) and Mable(3), they were eager and super keen to see what this ‘Bin’ show was all about. This is the farewell season for this show in Adelaide by Dummies Corp after playing a good few Fringes now with it, so we knew we couldn’t miss the chance to experience the ‘rubbish’ for ourselves 🙂
The minute the trio storms the stage (well into the audience actually, collecting their rubbish), the show runs on pure momentum. Acrobatics, slapstick, precision juggling and perfectly timed physical comedy collide in a fast-paced spectacle that keeps both kids and adults hooked. Expect bin-ballet choreography, daring balances, flying objects and a level of controlled chaos that feels thrilling rather than messy. The performers’ timing is razor sharp, and their playful rivalry keeps the laughter rolling. I defy any child to fall asleep in this show and would expect they put any bathroom urges on-hold for fear of missing the frivolities
“I defy any child to fall asleep in this show and would expect they put any bathroom urges on-hold for fear of missing the frivolities…” – Markus Hamence
What makes this production stand out is its inventive use of everyday objects. Wheelie bins become towers, trampolines and percussion instruments, transforming the mundane into moments of pure theatrical magic. The show has earned international praise for its imaginative physical comedy and high-energy antics, with jaw-dropping acrobatics and hilarious juggling at its core. These guys have finely honed their craft and KNOW how to keep their audience engaged.
Audience interaction is woven seamlessly into the performance. Kids squeal with delight as colourful balls fly overhead (expect a few blows to the head haha), while adults quickly surrender to the contagious silliness. It’s interactive without being overwhelming, creating a shared experience that feels communal and joyfully unfiltered.
“It’s interactive without being overwhelming, creating a shared experience that feels communal and joyfully unfiltered…” – Markus Hamence
Visually, it’s simple but effective – bright props, clever staging and playful lighting keep the focus on movement and timing. At just under an hour, the pacing is tight, with barely a second to catch your breath between gags and gravity-defying stunts.
This Fringe season marks a special return, with the beloved production touring globally and winning awards while charming audiences across multiple countries. If this truly is one of the last chances to see it in Adelaide, it’s a must.
Final word
Trash Test Dummies Circus is joyful, ridiculous, expertly crafted Fringe entertainment and anything BUT trash. It’s loud, clever, chaotic and irresistibly fun – the kind of show that reminds you why Adelaide Fringe feels like a city-wide celebration of imagination.
Verdict: A bin-tastic hit packed with laughs, flips and pure Fringe joy.
Trash Test Dummies Circus
Fri, 13 Feb – Sun, 22 Mar
Umbrella Revolution at The Garden of Unearthly Delights
Tickets
