Melbourne's Greek-Australian comedy star Casey Filips is set to make his Perth debut, bringing his acclaimed character comedy Virtuoso to Fringe World 2026. The show will run at The Rehearsal Room within the State Theatre Centre of Western Australia from February 4 to 15.
Meet Tobias Finlay-Fraser: A Delusional Theatrical Genius
Filips, 30, stars as the utterly self-assured yet talent-challenged actor Tobias Finlay-Fraser. Dressed in a signature black turtleneck and tights, Tobias is convinced he's destined for Hollywood greatness, despite a complete lack of recognition and skill. The interactive performance places the audience in the role of casting directors for his 'audition of a lifetime', which predictably spirals into hilarious disaster.
"He's a pretentious yet lovable idiot," Filips explains. "Under the heightened bravado there is quite an endearing little kid underneath. Someone who wants to be loved. That's what gives him life beyond the silliness." The show's title, Virtuoso, perfectly captures the character's monumental ego and lack of self-awareness.
From Personal Experience to Award-Winning Show
Virtuoso was born from Filips' own observations and experiences within the performing arts industry. Tired of waiting for the perfect role, he decided to create the show he wanted to see. "I spent years waiting for someone to tap me on the shoulder," he admits. "I've learned this doesn't happen, you make it happen, often before you feel truly ready."
His training under master clown Philippe Gaulier in France was transformative, teaching him to strip performance back to its purest form: honest play. This philosophy was put to the test during the show's early development at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in 2023, where Filips performed for late-night, often inebriated crowds, improvising freely and solidifying the character in "the hottest of creative fires."
A Fringe Success Story Comes to Perth
The polished show premiered at the Adelaide Fringe in 2024, where it won the prestigious Take A Chance On Adelaide Award for first-time, non-local performers. It has since enjoyed successful return seasons in Edinburgh. Filips' Fringe World 2026 season marks his first time presenting the work to Australian audiences west of Adelaide.
For Filips, the greatest reward is the sound of laughter as audiences leave. "Hearing people giggle like children with their friends or family as they exit the theatre is my absolute favourite moment of the night," he says. He describes the show as a high-energy, fun experience where the crowd's involvement directly shapes the unfolding calamity.
Virtuoso performs at Rehearsal Room 1, State Theatre Centre of WA, from February 4 to 15, 2026. Tickets are available through the official Fringe World website.
