One of Adelaide’s longest running Fringe shows, 21st Theatresports Clash of the Titans is an improv institution and a must-see at Festival time.

Improv is always fun, with its unpredictable moments, immersive format and involvement of the audience who essentially direct the content and the energy while the performers steer the chaos. But Clash of the Titans is a particular type of improv show where you know you are in safe hands because they only get the best and brightest on the stage for this one.

And on this particular day, we got to see some of the best in the business representing shows from across the festival battling it out in the improv arena. And it was marvellous.

Hosted by the charming and charismatic Steyn Freedendal, who ran a very tight ship, the first half of the show saw teams of champion improv-ers taking on a series of challenges chosen from vessels containing audience suggestions. Every scene was fun, creative, and pretty ridiculous.

The energy was high and the crowd was enthusiastic. Unfortunately sometimes it was slightly hard to hear some of the performers on the stage, but it didn’t detract from the enjoyment and our votes for our favourites were in the fours and fives, despite our cranky resident judge keeping scores low, which was always met with a well-deserved booing.

The second half saw legendary funny man and very impressive improviser Rove McManus clashing with the titans in a plight to lead one of the teams to victory. What a joy to see Rove in his element. He took every challenge cheerfully and with grace, and worked beautifully with the teams as an ensemble. So often guest stars will make the show their show, and in this case, Rove showed why he is Australia’s most loved son.

21st Theatresports Clash of the Titans is an absolute joy. If you love your improv and Theatresports, you’ve got to get along to one of these shows!

Four stars.

Libby Trainor Parker