BOOST: Watch ‘Doom and Glitter: A Tribute to Tom Waits’ at EdFringe 2025 – “A full-bodied, theatrical séance with his spirit…” (Ad)

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There’s a unique kind of alchemy at the Edinburgh Fringe: a cryptic title, a smoky saxophone in a church basement, and suddenly you’re in a world you didn’t expect. Doom & Glitter, the latest creation from drag king Mr Brake Down and his dynamic band, is exactly that kind of revelation.

Staged in the intimate Snug at Paradise in Augustines, this genre-bending cabaret isn’t just a tribute to Tom Waits — it’s a full-bodied, theatrical séance with his spirit. With live instrumentation, bold arrangements, and an irresistible mix of strangeness, storytelling, and grit, the show weaves bluesy swagger with razor-sharp humour.

Mr Brake Down’s gravel-edged drawl and magnetic stage presence have already earned a devoted following. Backed by Sophie Siobhán (sax, keys, guitar), Steve Lincoln (various oddball percussion and soundscapes), and Siân Peters (MD, rhythm, arrangements), the result is a sonic and visual feast.

Critics have praised the show’s flair, wit, and precision — noting its balance of heartfelt homage with irreverent charm. Audiences are also swept up in its unpredictability: part confessional, part gig, part fever-dream cabaret. Queer reviewers have also highlighted its refreshing inclusivity, inventive pacing, and sensory richness, making it both accessible and exhilarating.

Expect surprises, laughter, and moments of real poignancy. Whether you’re a lifelong Waits fan or just curious about the Fringe’s stranger corners, Doom & Glitter will pull you in, shake you up, and leave you grinning.