Cabaret review: Briefs, Underbelly Bristo Square (Venue 300), Edinburgh

WHEN Faanana Republic warn you that their show is not for the faint-hearted, they’re not joking. This has to be one of the bizarrest collection of acts you’ll come across at the Fringe – and that’s saying something.

Briefs

Underbelly Bristo Square

(Venue 300)

Star rating: * * *

Hailing from Brisbane, these naughty fellows mix talent with titillation. Given that the biggest cheers of the night come when somebody takes off a layer of clothing, they’ve probably got the balance about right.

Briefs is a remarkable example of old and new coming together. On the one hand, it’s as trad as they come, featuring a strongman and a plate spinner. On the other, it’s right on the edge of modern acceptability, with a tucked-away member (yes, that kind) and a stripping drag queen singing about all the rooms in the house she wants to be f***ed in.

The aerial acts, some hula hoop action and a film about tattooing (watch through your fingers) are also there. But there’s a sense that, unlike those worn on stage, Briefs could be fuller.

• Until 27 August. Today 11:15pm.