“I’ve been living a lie!” exclaims the shiny-haired, safari-suit wearing lounge singer as he bursts onto the stage of the Arts Theatre. The one and only Bob Downe is back for another year at the Adelaide Fringe and this time he has a surprise in store.

With a career spanning over three decades, the flamboyant alter-ego of comedian Mark Trevorrow has become something of a Fringe staple. Downe is also an Australian household name in his own right, boasting appearances on iconic shows such as Kath and Kim and Good News Week, as well as hosting his own series The Bob Downe Show. His unequivocally camp attitude has been his consistent trademark ever since his debut on Good Morning Murillumbah in 1984, but it seems like that is now all about to change.

I’m referring of course to the shock revelation that Downe is actually straight. The clever reverse coming-out narrative sets the context for the evening, although unsurprisingly, his new straight persona isn’t exactly convincing. His dress sense remains unchanged and he cavorts around the theatre as jovial as ever. To his credit though, he does repeatedly make an amusing effort to sit with his legs splayed rather than crossed.

Downe’s recent personal struggles aside, the singer demonstrates his expert musicianship as he brings to life classics of the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s. Backed by local three-piece band The Full Catastrophe, Downe doesn’t skip a beat as he struts along the stage, flashing his pearly whites and showcasing his decidedly impressive voice. Some of the numbers may be lost on younger audiences, uninitiated with the music of decades past, but Downe also works clever topical and observational humour into his act which helps to bridge the divide.

Glitzy, energetic and unabashedly camp, the latest offering from this enduring comedy character is sure to please fans.

Bob Downe – Bob, Sweat and Tears, Arts Theatre, March 13 to March 15