Coma survivor and former Bedford Players star embarks on first solo Adelaide Fringe

After having a Laparoscopic surgery to stop an ulcer in his abdomen in January 2007, Kym Mackenzie thought he was all clear to enjoy his favorite time of year, The Adelaide Fringe. 

His plans were stopped when doctors at the Flinders Medical Centre had to put Kym into an induced coma when a staple used in the surgery failed.

“The doctors weren’t sure I’d wake up, but my brother was sure I would survive because I’m a fighter,” says Kym.

With a new lease on life and an Adelaide Fringe Artist Grant, Kym Mackenzie aka Kymbo, is sharing his comedic talents in Kym's Overall Extravaganza Showcase at the 2021 Adelaide Fringe. 

Kym first started performing in 1992 with the Bedford players and has since worked with Restless Dance Theatre, No Strings Attached, and countless South Australian artists. With decades of experience in comedy, dance, acting, singing and spoken word, Kym has earned an enviable collection of awards and laureates including:

• Best in Fringe Award for his participation in Sons and Mothers
• The Fringe Festival Peace Foundation Award, for his work in Trapped
• A Helpmann Academy nomination 

Other local artists and comedians note that Kym is always keen to lend a hand to promote their performances.

“You often see Kym handing out flyers for local artists or manning the door at their show,” says Adelaide Comedian Wendy Torbet.

“When we heard he was finally doing a solo show, every artist I know has said they’d be happy to help, given how much Kym’s been supporting the arts in Adelaide for so many years”.

Kym's Overall Extravaganza Showcase will feature a range of content, from comedy to dancing, including a touching dance rendition of This Is Me from The Greatest Showman. 

“This Is Me is a new dance we’ve choreographed for the show. It’s using the song recorded by Bedford last year and it’s going to be a stunning moment in the show” says director, Phi Theodoros. 

“I’m hoping Kym’s heartwarming performance will leave audiences with a proud smile,” she says.

Kym's Overall Extravaganza Showcase has a short season of only four performances, with tickets available via the Adelaide Fringe website: https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/kym-s-overall-extravaganza-showcase-af2021

Show Details

Thursday 18th February – 7:30pm @ Original Pancake Kitchen (Preview Show all tix $10) Friday 19th February – 9:30pm @ Original Pancake Kitchen 

Sunday 21st February – 7:00pm @ The Gov – Front Bar 

Saturday 27th February – 9:30pm @ The Original Pancake Kitchen 

Tickets via adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix 

Full Price: $20 Concession: $15 BankSA Cardholder $15.75 

ENDS

For all Media Enquiries – please email Phi via [email protected] to coordinate any interviews or reviewer complimentary tickets.

Or call

Wendy Torbet on 0423 543 647