Think hiding in the back row will save you from Jeromaia Detto’s new show? Think again. This award-winning clown turns the entire tent into his playground in Jeromaia Detto: When I Grow Up… No one is safe!
Each night, Detto builds his show from scratch. He asks what we wanted to be when we grew up. Then the magic starts.
He turns these shared dreams into wild scenes. With just his body and some costumes, he becomes an astronaut, an actor, or even a father. The changes happen in a flash.
When a bare-chested Detto in blue overalls stepped forward to get an audience member to zip him up, I thought perhaps the show had shifted to an M-rating moment, and Detto was portraying a stripper. But it turns out he was an astronaut.
Audience members don’t just give ideas. They become stars in his circus. He pulls people on stage. He talks to folks in their seats. His scenes spill into the aisles and around the room.
The show runs as a series of odd characters. Each one is sillier than the last and he asks the audience to rank how funny each character is compared to the previous ones. Detto’s skills as a physical clown shine in every move. His face and body bend into whatever shape he needs.
Detto makes even shy folks feel at ease. There’s never any mockery — just pure play and joy.
Detto’s physical comedy has grown since his 2023 show, MUSH. His moves are sharper. His character switches flow better.
What stands out most is how he weaves random dreams into one show. Nothing feels forced or choppy. Each part flows into the next like it was always meant to be.
The timing is spot on. Just when one bit peaks, he shifts gears. This keeps us laughing for the full hour. With just a hat or scarf, he becomes someone new. It’s hard to believe one person can be so many characters.
When I Grow Up… is perfect for those who love shows with heart and humour. See it more than once if you can. You’ll get a whole new show each time. Just don’t think the back row will save you from Detto’s playful gaze.
Jeromaia Detto: When I Grow Up…
The Bally at Gluttony – Rymill Park, Adelaide
Performance: Sunday 9 March 2025 – 9.00 pm
Season continues to 16 March 2025
Information and Bookings: www.adelaidefringe.com.au
Image: Jeromaia Detto stars in When I Grow Up…
Review: Daniel G. Taylor