Decanting Coonawarra’s Fringe
In the idyllic Coonawarra, you’ll find a mini Fringe within a Fringe, packed with wining and dining, cabaret songs and cabernet sauvignon, laughter and the hereafter.
After a sellout season in 2024, the Coonawarra Fringe returns to the region with four diverse acts to suit all tastes. Throw in a splash of red wine (you’re in SA’s own ‘red centre’ after all), the free Wineries Walking Trail and historic landmarks, and you have a recipe for a great weekend.
Not sure where to start? Here’s a suggested itinerary for your Coonawarra Fringe.
Friday 21 February
If you’re lucky enough to already live in the Coonawarra or Limestone Coast, you won’t have far to travel, and for everyone else, make your way leisurely and safely to the region.
Friday night: Secure a spot on the lawns at DiGiorgio Family Wines with your deck chair, and prepare for a night filled with laughter.
To kick off your Coonawarra Fringe, SA’s own Kel Balnaves and the Northern Territory’s Amy Hetherington take you on a raucous road trip in Kel & Amy’s Comedy Road Trip. Filled with relatable travelling stories and jokes, this is the second night of their lap around SA during the Fringe.
Saturday 22 February
Saturday (late) morning: We know your sides are aching from laughing at last night’s show, but it’s time for brunch. Try the sourdough woodfired pizzas at Ottelia’s or take a short drive into Penola where you’ll find a range of bakeries and cafes.
The next show on your Coonawarra Fringe schedule is at Redman Wines. Start with a wine tasting, then settle in and prepare to be thoroughly spooked.
Not for the faint-hearted, this immersive experience by paranormalist Kevin Kopfstein will have you jumping out of your seats as he shows off his collection of haunted and cursed objects – recounting their grisly and ghostly stories. Thank goodness Haunting 2.0 The Witching Hour isn’t at night.
Saturday night: For a change of pace and to settle the nerves after your supernatural afternoon, it’s time for dinner. But this isn’t your regular run-of-the-mill restaurant.
Take a seat at your table in the Coonawarra Community Hall and prepare to be served – and entertained – by none other than grumpy Basil, down-to-earth Sybil and well-meaning Manuel. In Faulty Towers The Dining Experience, your three-course meal comes with a side of chaos and hilarity.
Sunday 23 February
Sunday (late) morning: How did you sleep? After yesterday’s ghouls and giggles, Sunday’s pace is much more leisurely. You’ll be visiting Parker Estate’s cellar door for today’s Coonawarra Fringe show.
Parker Estate opens at 10am so if it’s a little early for their gin or regional wine tasting, try one of their homemade pies and locally made arancini before the show. Let SA vocalist Bonnie Lee Galea and her Jazz in Cheek Quartet put a spell on you in NINA SIMONE – A Musical Life. Their midday revue honours the legendary Nina Simone as they take the audience on a journey through jazz, gospel, blues and funk.
Bringing the Fringe to the regions
What a wonderful way to spend a weekend. The Coonawarra Fringe is brought to you by co-producers Belinda Redman and Deb Redman, who are passionate about bringing the Adelaide Fringe to the region.
RAA members are in for an extra special treat, with 10 per cent off all four Coonawarra Fringe shows as well as the chance to win great prizes.
What’s the deal?
Save 10 per cent on full-price tickets to Coonawarra Fringe with your RAA membership.