Musical of Thrones: A Comedy of Ice and Fire is a great example of a dedicated cast that doesn't mind taking the piss out of themselves, or the classic George R.R. Martin series, Game of Thrones. 

The play, which guides us through a simplified adaption of the first four seasons of the acclaimed TV show, combines Aussie comedy with superfan in-jokes and musical numbers.

My favourite characters were a tie between Princess Mrycella (played by a devilish, bearded man in a pink dress), and Prince Joffrey, who described Westoros and "A Povo Shithole" and I just couldn't contain my laughter. 

A close second was the infamous Cersei. I was thinking to myself 'I straight up don't like this chick', but then it clicked, 'Duh Emma, She's acting!', and the depth of the actors performance really sank in as believable and entertaining. The show has a big heart, with a lot of the cast funding the production of out their own pockets. At the end of the last musical number, when the full cast was on stage, hands high in the air as they finish their final notes, the facade of their characters came down, and you can clearly see the relief and pride in their faces for their hard work and dedication to the production. 


I have to be honest to my readers, and myself. The theatre tech and production was not good. It was so not good, it let the entire performance down and it hurts me just to type this. So as I begrudgingly continue, let's get into the let downs. 

First up, the Headworn microphones weren't exactly working for every cast member, one characters voice would ring around the theatre in perfect level to the music, the other character in the duet? You couldn't hear them over sound tracks, yet alone any of the words they were saying. This made the audience miss out on important plot points and jokes I'm sure were well-executed. On top of this, come intermission, someone didn't turn off their mic, letting those show-goers like me who didn't leave the theatre to stretch my legs, to hear alllll about the in's and out's of backstage life. The lighting wasn't exactly placed in a way I believe the actors expected it to be, and the house lights came on halfway during the last song, purposefully or not, it made for a confusing and quite disruptive feel to the show. There were a few other things I could nit-pick, but taking into consideration this self-funded production has come all the way from Sydney to perform here for us, I'll let the tech problems slide. 

I also know that as professionals, these hard constructive criticisms can be used to alter, work upon, and ultimately lead the team behind the Musical of Thrones to another level of accomplished theatre. 

I can see that this production has a bright and interesting future, once these few kinks are ironed out, and it is clear to see that everyone behind this show has fully applied themselves into making this a hit show. I was laughing throughout the performance, and the casting was impeccable. Honorary mentions to Jon Snow, King Robert, Arya Stark, Ygritte, and Daenerys Stormborn of the House Targaryen, First of Her Name, the Unburt, Queen of the Andals and the First Men, Khaleesi of the Great Grass Sea, Breaker of Chains, and Mother of Dragons.


Okay, okay, okay, okay. If you know me, you know I LOVE anything creepy, macabre, scary, spooky, and paranormal. So when I saw the West Terrace Cemetery was hosting this Murder, Mystery and Mayhem Tour, I kinda flipped. I brought my sister along (Also a macabre addict), and with my camera and open-mind in hand, we set out for the cemetery.


Shoutout to Suze!
The spookiness started from the beginning, you have to keep out a keen eye not to miss the cloaked figures, the wailing widows, and the very active murderers that wander the graveyard.  


A big favourite about the tour were these LANTERNS. They flickered, ejected sound and story, pulled you into characters, and yes, they also did light your way. Escorted by the The West Terrace Cemetery employees, the captivating performances were spell-binding, it was a convincing display of acting and storytelling, making for a complete entertaining and informative performance. 




My favourite thing about the tour, is that they don't take themselves too seriously. They know these stories are made to be shared, and poking a bit of fun at peoples past mistakes makes us rethink the way we live our own lives (Like John Isaac, a Tiger Trainer who was mauled to death by the 'beast' Duke). That sometimes it's fun to talk about and indulge in death, and because of this, the cemetery that you would have once found utterly bone chilling to be in at 11.30pm at night, transforms into a playful and comfortable setting of amusement and curiosity. 


John Isaacs Grave
It was when they brought us to the infamous Taman Shud grave that I freaked. One of my favourite unsolved mysteries being it's so close to home. A dramatic retelling of the highly theorised case was, for me, encased in child-like wonder. They even had a large copy of the mystery note found hidden in the Somerton Man's pants! 






If you're looking for a truly entertaining and educational night out, learning more about Adelaide history and the very real murder, mystery and mayhem that it has bred, go see this show! On every Thursday and Friday during The Fringe. LINK HERE!



EMO being hosted at The Producers is a match made in heaven. The soft furnishing hang heavy with the lingering smell of spilled beers, there seems to be a spot of black mold on the ceiling, and the rooms lighting is set on the 'crack house in the morning sunshine' setting, just enough to automatically feel a sense of hanging regret over your head. 

Nah, it's great. Every venue has a heart and The Producers sure does. But enough about how I could imagine the room the audience sat in awaiting for the show would be perfect for some kind of Dean Corll-esque dungeon. Let's get into EMO.

The comedian Andrew 'Hasto' Hastings is the embodiment of quarter life angst and cynical realisations of reality. Self-proclaimed 'emo' and the kind of guy I would have had a crush on in high school (don't kink shame me), guides us through continuously captivating stories of his life. 


From being not so subtly labelled an 'accident', to 'Holiday Hastos' sporting Hawaiian shirts and a ukulele I assure you he tried to play something from The Black Parade on, Hastings truely engages his niche audience with a unique self-depreciating comedy style, one which I can see carrying on and evolving throughout is comedic career.

The show ends on a high note. We can laugh about monotony, about how depressing life can be and kinda just is, but Hasting's preaches something more important, and that's love (insert aww). But this show easily conveys it's about celebrating the little things, that sometimes not being okay, is okay, and everyone having their own journey.

The last show is set for tonight, 10pm at The Producers, but if we're lucky enough to have this act come back through Adelaide again, do a couple of West-End shotguns and go see it, you'll feel right at home. 


The first time I fell in love with Mary's was one night out down the East End, stumbling into the club, taking advantage of the 'Schlong Island Ice Teas' (nice), and being in awe of the Diva's performing their hearts out on stage. Being able to see people transform themselves, to shine a light on a different part of their personality, to be able to lip-sync to their hearts content and be happy and comfortable while doing so, is something more than just a little bit special. 

Before the show...
The Mary's Diva's (knowing they're onto something great) are Cabaret-ing the night away with their all-new, very fabulous, and beyond spectacular Adelaide Fringe show!

The performance, produced and hosted by Karen From Financea sweet-hearted numbers girl; guides you through life in the office for Karen and her coworkers, featuring all the facets of a good Shakespearian drama; tragedy, resilience, and a glamorous resurrection. 

Karen From Finance channelling 'My Heart Will Go On', and her on stage beau/Di Caprio counterpart
The 75-minute show is jam packed with a song selection every diva has programmed into her from birth. I found myself singing along to Whitney Houston songs I swore I'd never heard before, but they poured out of my heart and soul along with every other audience member there.

The Mary's Diva's
L-R @karenfromfinance @msfurr @misseveelle @thestacyqueen @wundes_
Featuring "appearances" from Celine Dion, Mariah Carey, Adele, Cyndi Lauper, Tina Turner, Shania Twain, Dolly Parton, and ABBA, the variety production is one for the ages, with captivating impersonations, a comedic story-line, and outfits (which I legitimately love and want to get my hands on), The Mary's Spectacular has something for every Diva at heart. 

The show is playing every Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday until March 18th at Mary's Poppin', so make sure you snap up your tickets and pop on those sequin stilettos for a genuinely unique and entertaining night out!

Check out the GALLERY below!







The Adelaide Fringe is a magical time of the year, I'd personally be fine with switching out Easter and Valentine's Day in favour for extra Fringe time during February and March (And not only because I calorie-count chocolate and am seemingly extremely single).

Within the month lovingly dubbed "Mad March", it's easy to be swept up in the Glitterazzi and Glamour of where your weekends (and some more wild weekdays) take you. To avoid 4 weeks of woefully checking your bank account on Sunday mornings and swearing you're never spending that much or drinking wine again, take a gander of the 6 MUST-SEE FREE EVENTS DURING THE ADELAIDE FRINGE!


BY THE GLASS: LIVE PODCAST RECORDING
Interactive/Digital Media

I loooove a good podcast, and it seems Media Guru and Digital Journalist Chris, alongside Bar Manager of Clever Little Tailor, Ali, got just the right amount of buzz one night to follow through on By The Glass(My drunken ideas on the other hand, never do) an entertaining and informative alcohol focused podcast. 

This live podcast recording will discuss South Australian drinking culture by introducing a local alcohol producer each episode to discuss its history, the production process, and most importantly, the best way to enjoy the fine bevvys themselves.

Free Event Details
Clever Little Tailor
19 Peet St, Adelaide
19th March, 1pm


FAT TUESDAY (ON A FRIDAY)
Public Event


Bringing the spirit and soul of Shrove Tuesday (pancakes) and Mardi Gras (partying), with inspiration of the New Orleans (more partying) French Quarter (way more pancakes), brought to you by NOLA Adelaide (amazing drinks), and The Pop-Up Co. (great parties), phew. 

Get your ass down to Vardon Ave for live jazz bands, local DJ's, amazing East End vibes, and I'm sure what will be more than a few cocktails. 

 Free Event Details
Vardon Ave, Adelaide
17th Feb - 5pm till 11pm


BEST OF FRINGE: EARLY SHOW
Comedy/Stand-Up

Best comedy of The Fringe? Check. Free? Check. Early Show at PJ's so you can head straight to the bar after just in  time for Happy Hour? Check Check Check! But in all seriousness the show, hosted by UK's own Dan Willis, boasts some of the biggest and the best of The Fringe's comedy. With past acts like Steve Hughes, Tommy Little, and Celia Pacquola, this Mini Gala will show off the prime segments of seven Fringe comedians to get a taste of.

PJs Balcony at PJ O'Briens 
14 East Tce, Adelaide
17th Feb - 18th March (Select Days) 6.15pm




2017 HELPMANN ACADEMY GRADUATE EXHIBITION
Visual Arts and Design 

The Helpmann Academy supports graduates and emerging artists and is passionate about celebrating South Australia as the centre of creative education excellence.  The show, which runs until March 12th, features SA's most exciting emerging visual artists, and highlights the talented students and graduates from the Academy. 



The Drill Hall, Torrens Parade Ground
Opening Night Thurs Feb 16th 6pm 
Every day after till March 12th, opening daily 10.30am



WAYMOUTH STREET PARTY
Public Event

Waymouth Street will once again be transformed into a fairy light covered affair of sophistication. The smart and savvy business district will bring scrumptious street food, tantalising beverages, and eclectic music for all ages to enjoy. Food and beverages from retailers such as: Melt Pizzeria, Bistro Dom, Cibo, and The Union Hotel will be available to enjoy. 



Free Event Details
Waymouth St, Adelaide
Torrens Parade Ground, Adelaide
10th March, 4pm till late




'WALLS OF WONDERMENT' STREET ART EXHIBITION 
Visual Arts and Design

This free Street Art Exhibition is KICK-ASS. Showcasing some of the best Mural Art around Adelaide and the surrounding suburbs, Lisa King AKA Street-Art Phenomenon and Instagram shot inspirer extraordinaire, will guide a group through a celebration of female street art and creativity. Along with non-formal discussion, Q&A's, and drinks, Lisa will be hostng an Artist talk, which will include an accompaniment to the process of her recent murals, her ideologies, the narratives and the aesthetics. 


Free Event Details
Jarmer's Kitchen, Bowden
Feb 23rd, 6pm

I'll be out and about all Fringe season bringing you reviews, hints, tips, event coverage and more! Stay updated on my blog for written content and my Instagram for live looks into the Fringe.


Feel free to share, comment on my posts, spread the love! Please contact me on theiconicblonde@hotmail.com if you want any publicity coverage (reviews, interviews, meetups, instagram shoutouts, etc!) 
There's something truly special about the shows hosted by RAW Adelaide, and I think I know what it is. 
When you're in a space, surrounded by the buzzing of hundreds of people who are voluntarily squeezing themselves into room by room slick with sweat, friends, family and strangers all supporting local artists, their hard work, and their dreams. 

An exhibition where aspirations and uniqueness are truly celebrated, and artists are commemorated for what they've made and who they are. It's really kinda of heartwarming. 

I chatted with five of my favourite artists at the CUSP exhibition, hear more about them and their work below!

CLARE MACPHERSON
Dream-like surrealism combined with extreme detail and captivating characters.
What's your favourite Childhood TV Show Character? Wallace from Wallace and Gromit
What artist living or dead would you most like to have coffee with? Frida Kahlo
Check her out on 

WYNNE ELISE
Heavy magic tones with a perfectly balanced colour palette and a pinch of insanity.
What language would you most like to learn? Probably French, or Spanish. Which are probably very generic answers but I have family in South American so, Spanish... Spanish.
If you had to live anywhere (other than Adelaide) where would it be? Melbourne. 
I like Australia and Melbourne's really cool. 
Check her out on 

STEFANI JOSEE
Creator of Drawlustrations (illustrations/drawings) on mixed canvas' like wood tattooing and digital doodling. 
What's your favourite home cooked meal? Pasta
What's your favourite place to grab and drink? I drink Matcha, I go to Bambi & Co. 
Check her out on 

A&I BY E
An untameable mix of pieces ranging from the perfect Mother's Day gift to aesthetic vaporwave.
How did you find out about RAW? I went to a RAW show with a friend a little while ago to support her and decided to jump on board. 
If you had to spend your Sunday one way, how would you spend it? Definitely brunch with eggs, of course, and a trip to the beach if the weather suits.
Check her out on 

SEX CULT 
An enticing and erotic selection of raw female forms and strong sexual themes, at least M15+.
What's your favourite 90s TV Show? Freaks and Geeks
Where would you most like to see the countryside? Probably France, the french countryside.
Check her out on 

Like prior to our parents marriages, or badly staged episodes of Reality TV, Speed Dating is coming out of the woodwork with a new nationwide start-up 'CitySwoon'. Combining the old-school tactics of face-to-face dates, with the new-age opportunities of a tech connection, perspective Romeo's and Juliet's headed to the pre-organised CitySwoon group date location to let the lovin' begin. Once checked in online, CitySwoon texts you when your next date will start, and a picture of them pops up so you can pick them out of the crowd. This particular speed dating experience was for people aged 22 to 32, but future events cater for a wide variety of ages, from 22, to 55.



I'm not saying I'm too single, but I spent the night before this date up until 3am painting a DIY Gnome and watching 'The Office' (I try to keep myself entertained). When I heard about the event from my fabulous PR friend, Sarah Nguyen, we jumped at the chance to explore this opportunity, and soon found ourselves downstairs at Bank Street Social Club for the festivities to begin. Honestly, we were a bit confused, there wasn't a run down of the night given, or the organisers addressing the crowd, but since we were only there to check it out and have a fun night, we weren't too fussed. We grabbed our drinks, received our texts, and we were ready to go on our 10 minute encounters.

The City Swoon text directions on the night

Now I know that I'm a picky person, I'm starting to remind myself of those not super amazing couples on Married at First Sight who whole-heartedly believe they deserve better than the on-par person standing in front of them. The first date was with a game developer who laughed like a hyena and drenched my hand with sweat on our departing handshake. The next two guys were both friends who had moved to Australia from international countries, who both had a passion and appreciation of our beautiful country, and eventually had to decline a date offer from one. I definitely got along with the last guy the easiest, with long conversations including me overshadowing his knowledge of obscure animated shows, but I've never met a Mathematician that I've ever liked. 

Bank Street Social Club

I loved incorporating my phone into the dating experience. BUT even if I'm on a date I'm not enjoying, I find it common courtesy to not be on my phone. During the dates last night (helped with a few drinks), I found my eye wandering to my phone screen waiting for the next text so I could say my goodbyes, buy a Mojito to subtly flirt with the bartender (I had three to find out he was taken), and move onto the next meet up.

I found the dates were in a way, fairly well-suited for me in one way or another. Two guys were smart, nice, graduates with good jobs and a sly sense of humour, the other two were fun, adventurous, talkative and exotic. Put them all together and I might have found someone I'd be interested in seeing again, the website did good, but I need great to change my ways.

Would I go again? Probably not. Although the people I met were lovely, they didn't check my boxes, I feel like I would be wasting their time and mine, more because of who I am, and where I am in my life right now. I really hope these people find what they are looking for, I'm positive if they keep at it, they'll find someone just so lovely for them.

CitySwoon has provided a platform for people to skip the one night stand vibes from Tinder, and jump straight to the coffee date you've been waiting 4 days for your right swipe to ask you on. I think once the word gets out and more people like me jump on the bandwagon, I'll definitely consider going again. 

Happy Dating,

Emma D