Reviewed by: Fringefeed
Review by Peri Watson | 04 February 2022

Fairyfales vs Disney is a classic bedtime story met with Drunk History!

Starring five performers, each with a unique style, we are treated to an hour of comedy, education, and introspection. The troupe come prepared with a performative take on a classic fairy tale. However, these stories aren’t as we know them.

These are the real stories. The stories Disney put a beauty filter on and turned up to 11. Fairyfales vs Disney rips off that filter, exposing the unsung, if not unsavoury, truth of it all.

The show opens strongly with Leigh Fitzpatrick, recounting the original Little Mermaid by Hans Christian Andersen in all its tongue-removing, tail-splitting glory. Fitzpatrick also treats us to an extra tale, but I won’t spoil their surprise!

Next up is Jamie Cook’s performance — heavy on the history yet dazzling storytelling. We are told the story (in a longwinded sense) of The Sword in the Stone. Cook doesn’t tell the audience which tale his performance is leading up to, so the mind wanders with possibilities, and can feel a little lost. But if you’re up for a fascinating story about invasions, wizards, and architecture, you’ll love Cook’s take on King Arthur’s reign.

After Cook is Pinocchio, recounted by Felix Camponovo. Trust me, this is Pinocchio as you’ve never seen him, and you’ll start to wonder if the execs at Disney even read the book past the first page.

Following their performance is a break in the comedy, as Beck Thompson shares the inspiring, true story of Hua Mulan. Thompson’s performance was engaging, respectful, and moving, putting both Disney adaptations to shame. Ending the night on a hysterical high, we have Courtney Maldo telling the story of fetishes, slavery, and sexy lamps — Cinderella.

You will learn as much as you will laugh. If you’re looking for a relaxed, intimate comedy show with five up-and-coming comedians and storytellers, Fairyfales vs Disney is not one to miss!