Following a sell-out Sydney Fringe debut at the National Institute of Performing Arts (NIDA), the laugh-out-loud medieval farce A Kingdom of Fools rides triumphantly into Adelaide for a strictly limited season from 27 February to 1 March at the Parks Theatre.
When King John dispatches his noblemen to transform the village of Gotham into his royal retreat, order unravels in spectacular fashion. Set in a small tavern at the heart of the town, this new original Australian comedy is a sharp satire where royal power meets local resistance, turning medieval life into a hilarious examination of class, power, and community.
Created by Sydney playwright and performer Ryan Atkins, this is a show for anyone who loves big characters, clever wordplay, and unapologetic theatrical chaos. Think The Play That Goes Wrong colliding with Monty Python in a medieval tavern. Complete with a full-scale set, period accurate costumes, and a stage full of realistic medieval props, this is farce at full tilt.
Rooted in the village tavern but speaking across centuries, A Kingdom of Fools celebrates the power of the people to stand up to those who rule over them and in doing so, captures something deeply Australian in its spirit of resistance, humour, and unity.
Set against the weight of a distant English crown imposing its will from afar, the play exposes the inherent unfairness of power exercised without consent and reminds us that when authority refuses to listen, resistance finds its voice.
“I thought it was brilliant… everyone was amazing… it was funny, clever… it was just great.” – Amanda Keller, Australian TV & radio personality.
Writer, Producer and Director: Ryan Atkins | Featuring: Jordan Batten, Brendan Atkins, Meredith Welch, Nala Davies, Lachlan Atkins, Alex Hutchinson-Smith, Ryan Atkins, Arnold Walsh | Set Construction: Nic You Lee
A Kingdom of Fools
Theatre Two at The Parks Theatres, 46 Cowan Street, Angle Park (SA)
Season: 27 February – 1 March 2026
Information and Bookings: www.adelaidefringe.com.au
Image: The Cast of A Kingdom of Fools (supplied)