'Cirque du So Lame' Brings Wild, Wacky Variety Show Energy to Orlando

Review & Photos by Jaimz Dillman

Among the many hot spots in Orlando’s tourist district, Papa’s Cirque du So Lame is International Drive’s newest limited-run offering. Nestled inside Afro-tainment, a full-scale production studio, creator Todd Feren has brought together some of his most talented friends to form one big dysFUNctional family.

What started back in 2017 as a fundraiser to help displaced performers after their venue was hit by a hurricane has grown into something bigger. The success of that show, along with the follow-up Mama’s comedy improv show, inspired Feren to bring Papa back for a five-week engagement through August 2. The goal is to build enough buzz to return with a holiday edition later this year.

The 90-minute variety show is packed with jaw-dropping specialty acts like juggling, contortion, stacked hula hoops, and yes—puppies. Audience members get pulled into the party, with several lucky folks becoming assistants to Cousin Max and Aunt Tootie. The laughter is nonstop, and the music and fashion channel the 80s in all the best ways. Think of it as the family reunion you didn’t know you needed, complete with the awkward relative who went out for milk and never came back.

Feren runs the show as Cousin Ricky, introducing the Papas dancers and powerhouse vocalist Cherry Bombastic with full family pride. But the true standout is Cousin Benji, best known from HHN Nightmare Fuel. The nightmare queen flips and spins through aerial stunts and partner tricks that defy logic. Watching her perform up close is a whole new level of wow—every move is fierce, every sparkle shines from head to toe.

The show includes some adult humor, so it’s more PG-13 than kid-friendly. My 15-year-old was cracking up the entire time. Best of all, the price is a total win, especially compared to other big-ticket attractions in Orlando. Let’s help make that holiday show happen for this unforgettable crew. Grab your friends and head to Papa’s. It’s so lame it’s legendary.

Tickets and info :https://cirquedusolame.com/tickets