Cabaret season is here to bring you a fun night out.
It may be winter, but the Melbourne Cabaret Festival is one of the hottest arts events this season. And fittingly, it’s happening during Pride Month. Through their performances, the Melbourne Cabaret Festival has provided on-stage visibility for underrepresented sexualities, genders, cultures and races. On top of that, the Festival has also pushed for causes like marriage equality in the past. With such a diverse art form, almost every show this season is completely new. So head into the city and see a show from Wednesday June 16 to Sunday June 27.
What is the Melbourne Cabaret Festival?
For over a decade, the Melbourne Cabaret Festival has been the launching platform for some of the best cabaret shows. Supported by the City of Stonnington, it will take place in Chapel Off Chapel in Prahan. The Chapel will be converted into two intimate spaces with most seating at tables. Under 18s are welcome to attend the night if they are accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Last year, the Festival was cancelled due to COVID so they’re coming back with a fiery passion. According to festival organisers, the solitude of lockdowns has released the “creative energy and spirit of our cabaret performers”, leading to “fresh ideas, music and stories”. They’re keen to get back on stage and into your hearts.
What kind of shows are there?
This year, there are 15 different shows to choose from. Over a period of two weeks, feel captivated by the performers as they bring stars like Annie Lennox and Aretha Franklin to life. Watch award-winning Tash York and her boozy background singers, The Red Red Wines, take the stage to trash talk Karens and conspiracies. See Lachlan Bartlett present the life of a bogan tradie by day and a glorious drag queen at night. Or go on an interactive trip with Tania de Jong and her pianist, Anthony Barnhill, as they take you on a chaotic “magical mushroom adventure”.
There’s so many different shows to choose from. For the full program, click here.
Find the Festival at 12 Little Chapel Street, Prahran.