Current Show
Atomically Correct
This is the (nuclear) fusion you've been waiting for! A science comedy that explores how, even though we're mostly nothing, we all still matter.
Unravel the mysteries from inside the atom in this new show with Rachel Rayner Science Explainer. From neutrinos and neutrons, to protons and positrons - you can't trust any of them, as they make up everything!
Solidly funny, with a splash of sequins and an air of wonder, this strange yet charming adventure will be full of ups and downs while breaking open the truth and beauty of the atom.
After the success of the first show A Flying Photon, which toured nationally, the award-winning formula is being bundled up into an exploration of the quantum behind our everyday experiences, the states of matter, and revealing that temperature is just jiggling atoms. Delving into language, levels and lies, this science comedy show for adults gives us space to contemplate and chuckle at the Universe and the happy accident that is the human race.
Whatever state you're in, it'll be a quarking good time.
Recommended by the Governor of South Australia, her Excellency the Honourable Frances Adamson AC.
Dates and Venues
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, dates and times can change at short notice.
See the maps below for more detailed directions, or visit the Rayner Explainer Facebook page for more details and updates.
Adelaide Fringe Festival - Little Bang Brewing Co.
7:30pm - 16, 17, 19 March (three shows only, Thurs to Sun)
Little Bang Brewing Co.
Touring Show
A Flying Photon
Go on a glittering and whimsical journey to meet everyone's favourite object in the universe, even if you haven't heard of it: the tiny, tiny photon. Through humour, sequins and stars, uncover a bizarre piece of quantum mechanics which brings us both a sunset and the internet.
Science show meets fringe show in this amalgamated mess of comedy and quantum. There will be experiments, poetry, and a deep dive into some of the best features in the cosmos, including our wonderfully radiating selves.
This is science that sparkles on all levels - from the heliosphere to our own lithosphere - that will have you celebrating colours of light you've never seen.
Just be ready for all the puns. This is enlightening light entertainment after all!
"Humorous and factual, with moments of genuine wonder." - the AU Review
This show won the Adelaide Fringe Festival's Science at the Fringe Award
Past performances
Adelaide Fringe Festival, South Australia
Bendigo Comedy Festival, Victoria
Natimuk Fringe Festival, Victoria
Sydney Fringe Festival, NSW
Warners Bay Theatre, Lake Macquarie, NSW
Studio Amsterdam, Maitland, NSW
Smith's Alternative, Canberra, ACT
Reviews
* * * * In Daily
* * * * The Advertiser
* * * * On The Record
* * * * The AU Review
“Do yourself a favour – you’ll laugh and learn at the same time.” - Dr Karl
"Rachel gives us something special. She shows how science can merge with theatre and poetry to offer information and entertainment at the same time."
Paula Benson, Weekend Notes
“Rachel Rayner, Science Explainer, fuses physics with theatre and comedy in a glittering journey beyond the edges of the visible spectrum."
Rachel Mead, In Daily
“Let Rayner Explainer blow your mind so you can give a Flying Photon about the universe."
Clare Peddie, The Advertiser
"Very rarely have I had the opportunity to say I walked away from a comedy show smarter than when I walked in, but that’s the gift Rayner gives you."
Naomi Gall, The AU Review
Past Shows
All Wrapped Up
AIP: Physics in the Cloud
AIP: Physics in the Cloud
Developed for Planet Ark's National Recycling Week, this show introduced the world to the slightly mad Polly Etheleen. A total plastiphile, Polly will help you keep plastic moving through the circular economy.
AIP: Physics in the Cloud
AIP: Physics in the Cloud
AIP: Physics in the Cloud
Part of a series of short 'stand-up' acts, this was a hilarious combination of the daggiest science jokes you've ever heard and beautiful, enlightening facts.
A Flying Photon (Sydney)
AIP: Physics in the Cloud
A Flying Photon (Adelaide)
The sold-out Adelaide Fringe show was brought to Sydney for two shows only! Wiggle your way through the electromagnetic spectrum to find out just how amazing our Universe is.
A Flying Photon (Adelaide)
Science Explorations (Global)
A Flying Photon (Adelaide)
Debuting at Adelaide Fringe, 2021, A Flying Photon was greeted with raving reviews and sold out shows.
Science Explorations (Global)
Science Explorations (Global)
Science Explorations (Global)
Since 2011, Rachel has written and performed science shows around the world, on topics such as deep ocean animals, mechanical machines, human biology, and the forces of nature.