So, What Is a Cabaret Exactly?

Have you ever found yourself at a show that felt like a blend of theatre, music, and improvisation, and wondered what exactly you're experiencing? Well, friends and family, that enchanting evening might just have been a cabaret! In this post, I'm going to dive into the wonderful world of cabaret, explore its unique formats, share a bit about my theatrical approach to cabaret, and even invite you to experience it live!

What Is a Cabaret?

In the simplest terms, a cabaret is a form of entertainment that features a variety of performances, typically including music, dance, and drama. It originally emerged in the 19th century in France, particularly in Paris, where cafes began offering a space for artists to showcase their talents while patrons enjoyed food and drinks. Unlike traditional theatre, cabarets are often characterized by their more intimate settings and a casual, sometimes improvisational style.

Wait! I bet you're wondering about those moments when a performer interacts directly with the audience – that’s all part of the charm! It creates a cozy atmosphere where everyone feels like they’re involved in the experience.

Cabaret can take on many different forms—that's what makes it so fun!

The Evolution of Cabaret Formats

Over the years, the cabaret has evolved into various formats, each bringing its own flavor to the scene. From the classic Parisian cabaret featuring singers and dancers in extravagant costumes to modern interpretations that incorporate elements of stand-up comedy, there’s something for everyone.

• Traditional Cabaret: This is the format most associated with the genre, featuring vocalists and live musicians, often with a theme. Think of it as a night at a fancy restaurant where the entertainment is just as important as the food.

  
  

• Musical Cabaret: This type focuses on storytelling through song, much akin to a mini musical. The narratives might be whimsical or poignant, allowing the audience to connect deeply with the performers.

  
  

• Comedy Cabaret: A laugh-a-minute affair, where comedians mix stand-up routines with musical interludes. You may find yourself doubling over in laughter one moment and tapping your feet the next.

  
  

I personally prefer the latter of the two formats mentioned above. I'm passionate about musical theater and a big fan of stand-up comedy. Some of my favorite comedians are Ellen DeGeneres, Sebastian Maniscalco, Bill Burr, and, in her earlier specials, Ali Wong. I strive to blend the two by creating a seamless flow of storytelling, songs, and humor!

Getting on stage and actually making an audience listen and laugh is the most thrilling feeling.

My Theatrical Cabaret Experience

My journey in creating cabaret shows has been a deeply personal and evolving experience. One of my first full cabarets, back in 2017 when my daughter was two, was called "Ode to My Tiger Stripes." This show shared my experiences of becoming a new mom through short stories, comedy, and song. I even had my diaper bag up on stage, filled with props to help tell the story. One memorable prop was a breast pump, which I used while singing an original song written by my friend and accompanist called "Where's My God Damned Milk?" It turned out to be hilarious, and I was pleasantly surprised and deliciously satisfied by how many laughs I got.

In 2020, my husband and I wrote a cabaret called "Meet the Parents," combining short stories and songs to share our experience as new parents. Unfortunately, this show was tragically canceled two days before opening night due to the pandemic.

My husband and I performing a snippet of our show at The Triple Door in Seattle, just nights before the entire festival was cancelled due to Covid.

In 2023, I produced my own show at the Jewelbox Theatre called "Forever Now," where I sang about the pandemic, my breast cancer (which I dealt with during the pandemic), and my late immigrant father.

Me at the Jewelbox Theatre, being silly and honoring my groovy Dad, the hardest working man I know.

I need to clarify something: Initially, when I began doing this, it was terrifying. I recall my husband asking why I was so anxious, considering I had already performed numerous times in venues accommodating up to 5,000 people. Here's the catch: In these cabaret shows, I have to be myself. In contrast, in other productions, I portray a different character. It's scripted and produced by someone else. I have a role to fulfill. I show up, rehearse, follow the director and stage manager's instructions, and then repeat (sometimes 8 times a week). It was nerve-wracking at first, but over time, I realized something...people are interested in hearing others' stories!

The Love for Storytelling

Storytelling has always been a passion of mine. It allows us to connect with each other on a deeper level. Don’t you love it when someone shares a story and you think, “Wow, that happened to me too”? It’s in those moments we realize the beauty of our shared experiences, whether they make us laugh or bring a tear to our eye.

With my shows, I aim to share experiences that may resonate with others—something that might be interesting, inspiring, or helpful. I hope that when people hear my story, they might feel a little less alone or find the motivation to make a change in their lives based on what I've learned. And if nothing else, I simply hope to bring a smile or a laugh to someone's day. That's really all I aspire to do.

I also encourage the audience to reflect on their own stories. Everyone has a tale to tell, whether it’s about finding love, facing fears, or experiencing an amusing moment at a family gathering. Sharing these narratives can be quite therapeutic, fostering connections and bridging gaps between us.

Join Me for an Evening of Fun!

Well, with that said, I invite you to come out to my next show in May! Join me for some drinks, good food, and hopefully a laugh or two (along with a sprinkle of Disney magic) at the Seattle Cabaret Festival. Check out the details for the shows here and grab your tickets before they run out!

As we dive into the wild and wacky world of cabaret, just remember it’s all about having a blast, making friends, and spinning yarns. So, what do you say? Let’s rendezvous at the cabaret! Catch you in May! And if you can’t make it, just remember: a cabaret without you is like a barn without hay! Okay, I’m fresh out of rhymes. 😉)

Byeeeeeeee!