After four years of touring Australia and overseas, IKEA WARS is returning to Melbourne Fringe, where the chaotic comedy show first began.
The cult favourite sees New Zealand comedian Kieran Bullock take on the roles of host, referee and chaos-maker, challenging two contestants to build IKEA furniture against the clock while throwing plenty of obstacles into their path.
It is less straightforward flatpack assembly and more a competitive game show, with added challenges, forfeits and hurdles standing between contestants and the coveted title of champion of Sweden, a title that is, importantly, not officially recognised by the Swedish government.
IKEA WARS began as a solo comedy show before Bullock trialled the race format, turning IKEA assembly into a noisy and competitive battle. The revamped show debuted at Melbourne Fringe in 2022 before building an audience at festivals around Australia.
The show has since clocked up more than 100 performances, including multiple sold-out shows at Adelaide Fringe and a 27-show run at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
Now, IKEA WARS is heading back to the festival that helped launch its latest incarnation, with five late-night performances at Trades Hall Festival Hub.
Expect a mix of comedy, competition and flatpack frustration as two contestants attempt to prove their IKEA-building credentials while Bullock throws fresh chaos their way.
Described as Taskmaster meets Gladiators with Japanese game show energy, the show promises plenty of unpredictable moments, particularly when the clock is ticking and the furniture still looks nothing like the picture on the box.
IKEA WARS runs from 30 September to 4 October, with shows at 9.30pm each night except Sunday, when it starts at 8.30pm. Tickets cost $25 to $28 plus booking fees. For tickets and more information, head here.
