Comedian Hypnotist Matt Hale has returned to Adelaide Fringe with his 2021 COVID-safe version of his 2020 award winning show Bonkers!
This is a night of laughter, dance and crazy activities so you best be ready to get a bit wild, free and bonkers!
Hale invites you into a spaciously separated Virago tent at popular Adelaide Fringe venue Gluttony where he performs his hour-long hypnosis party!
What begins with a crazy dance show by Hale quickly transforms into a meditation and then into hypnosis celebration.
Volunteers are invited to the stage by Hale to partake in the hypnosis. I’d like to emphasise on the word “volunteers” as there is no pressure placed by Hale on volunteers to take to the stage. But given his pep-talk prior to asking for volunteers, there were more than enough people rushing to take part.
Once volunteers took to the stage and underwent a meditation-like act into a hypnotic trance, then the crazy activities begun. Hypnosis partakers appeared to be having the time of their lives dancing, playing air guitar and assuming the roles of different characters. They appeared to be partaking in the best party they’ve ever been to whilst also remaining relaxed-looking and stress free.
For me, this was the first ever hypnosis show I have witnessed, and it has left me eager for more. I would absolutely see Matt Hale’s Bonkers! again and next time I’ll be rushing to the stage to be a part of the party.
My Highlights of the night include watching partakers perform viral tiktok dances and my
absolute favourite on-stage (and hypnotisded) character Patrick the party starter/hype man/Dizzee Rascal’s Bonkers enthusiast.
So, like me what you probably wonder is how legitimate the hypnosis is? It was clear that the partakers level of trance within the hypnosis was supported by their level relaxation with some people being a lot more active and enthusiastic than others. To help with my doubts, following the show I spoke to a couple of the on-stage volunteers about their experiences. One guy who was in a clear hypnotic state throughout the show exclaimed that he couldn’t remember a thing! But not to worry! Hale did assure that the memories would flood back after the next alcoholic beverage.
Whether partakers were legitimately hypnotised or not, Matt Hale manages to deliver a show that is hilariously entertaining and that will leave you grinning throughout. Even if you aren’t fortunate (or unfortunate depending on your perspective) enough to partake in the hypnosis… do not be concerned! The audience still becomes entranced within the hilarity unfolding in front of them, forgetting all other worries outside the tent and having the best laugh they’ve had in a while.
This show is appropriate for anyone, young and old… all you need is a sense of humour and a willingness to be a bit bonkers!
Written by Hayley Sutter for Eventalaide
For venue, dates and ticketing information click here:
https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/comedy-hypnotist-matt-hale-bonkers-af2021
No Comments