Story Overview
“Cabaret” at the Kit Kat Club in New York City is a revival of the classic musical set in 1930s Berlin during the rise of the Nazi Party. The narrative is divided into two acts, focusing on the intersecting lives of several characters against the backdrop of the Kit Kat Club, a seedy cabaret. Here’s all you know before getting “Cabaret” at the Kit Kat Club tickets:
Act 1:
The story begins with the introduction of the Emcee, who welcomes the audience to the Kit Kat Club, a place of escapism in a politically unstable Germany. We meet Sally Bowles, a British singer at the club, and Cliff Bradshaw, an American writer searching for inspiration in Berlin. Sally and Cliff begin a complicated relationship, with Sally moving in with Cliff after losing her job. Meanwhile, Fraulein Schneider, the owner of a boarding house where Cliff stays, develops a romance with Herr Schultz, a Jewish fruit seller. The act ends with the ominous rise of Nazism starting to creep into their lives.
Act 2:
The tension escalates as the political situation worsens. Sally finds herself pregnant, unsure whether Cliff is the father. Despite Cliff’s desire to leave Berlin for a safer life, Sally decides to stay, preferring the dangerous allure of the city over the uncertainty of elsewhere. The Emcee’s performances become darker, reflecting the growing menace of the Nazis. Fraulein Schneider ends her engagement with Herr Schultz due to the rising anti-Semitism, and the characters are forced to confront the harsh realities of their time. The musical ends with the Emcee’s haunting farewell, leaving the audience with a sense of foreboding about what lies ahead for the characters.
Costume Design
The cast of “Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club” is dressed in costumes that reflect the decadence and uncertainty of 1930s Berlin. The costumes are designed to be both bold and provocative, with the Emcee often seen in striking and eccentric outfits that emphasize the character’s flamboyant and unsettling nature. Sally Bowles, the show’s central character, is typically adorned in glamorous, yet disheveled attire, symbolizing her chaotic lifestyle and the turbulence of the era.
The backgrounds and set design are meticulously crafted to immerse the audience in the atmosphere of the Kit Kat Club, a cabaret that serves as a microcosm of the world outside its walls. The set often includes elements that are dimly lit, with heavy use of shadows and moody lighting to enhance the sense of foreboding that looms over the characters.
Cultural themes in the show include the exploration of the rise of fascism, the dangers of apathy, and the moral ambiguities of the time. The use of German Expressionist influences in the staging and design underscores the show’s commentary on the political and social upheavals of the period, making it a timeless reflection on society’s darker facets.
Cast Information
The original production of “Cabaret” premiered on Broadway in 1966, with Joel Grey as the iconic Emcee and Jill Haworth as Sally Bowles. The show has seen numerous revivals, each with notable performances. The most famous revival occurred in 1998, starring Alan Cumming as the Emcee and Natasha Richardson as Sally Bowles. This production was celebrated for its raw and gritty portrayal of the characters.
The current production at the Kit Kat Club in New York City features Eddie Redmayne as the Emcee, a role he originated in the London production. Redmayne brings a sinister and enigmatic energy to the character, making it a standout performance. Gayle Rankin stars as Sally Bowles, portraying her as a more troubled and complex character than in previous interpretations. The supporting cast includes Bebe Neuwirth as Fraulein Schneider, Steven Skybell as Herr Schultz, and Ato Blankson-Wood as Cliff Bradshaw.
Venue Details
“Cabaret” is performed at the August Wilson Theater in New York City, which has been transformed into the Kit Kat Club for this production. The theater is located at 245 West 52nd Street, right in the heart of Broadway. The venue has undergone a significant redesign to immerse the audience in the world of the Kit Kat Club, with the theater space reconfigured to resemble a cabaret setting. The audience is seated at tables, adding to the intimate and immersive experience of the show. This setup allows the performers to interact closely with the audience, creating a unique theatrical experience.
Reviews and Music
The current revival of “Cabaret” at the Kit Kat Club has received mixed reviews. Critics have praised Eddie Redmayne’s performance as the Emcee, highlighting his ability to capture the dark and eerie atmosphere of the character. Gayle Rankin’s portrayal of Sally Bowles has also garnered attention for its raw and unpolished approach, though some have found it to be too harsh compared to previous interpretations.
The music of “Cabaret” remains one of the show’s strongest aspects. The score, composed by John Kander with lyrics by Fred Ebb, includes iconic numbers such as “Willkommen,” “Maybe This Time,” and the title song “Cabaret.” These songs are well-loved by audiences, with “Cabaret” often receiving the most applause. The music is a blend of period jazz and Broadway melodies, capturing the decadence and underlying tension of 1930s Berlin. The current production features updated orchestration that enhances the haunting and dissonant qualities of the score, adding to the overall impact of the show.
Awards
“Cabaret” is a highly acclaimed musical, having received numerous awards since its original production. The 1966 Broadway production won eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Best Score, and Best Direction. The 1998 revival also won four Tony Awards, including Best Revival of a Musical and Best Actor for Alan Cumming’s performance as the Emcee.
The current production at the Kit Kat Club has been recognized for its innovative design and performances. Eddie Redmayne’s portrayal of the Emcee has earned him several accolades, including a nomination for Best Actor in a Musical at the Tony Awards. The production’s immersive set design has also been praised, receiving awards for Best Scenic Design.
Run Length and Schedule
“Cabaret” at the Kit Kat Club runs for approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including one intermission.
- Monday: No show
- Tuesday: 7:00 PM
- Wednesday: 2:00 PM (Matinee) and 7:00 PM
- Thursday: 7:00 PM
- Friday: 8:00 PM
- Saturday: 2:00 PM (Matinee) and 8:00 PM
- Sunday: 3:00 PM
For the best experience, it’s recommended to attend an evening performance, as the atmosphere of the Kit Kat Club is particularly effective at night. The show is popular, so it’s advisable to book tickets in advance. If you’re looking for last-minute tickets, there may be limited availability on the day of the performance.
The dress code for “Cabaret” is casual, but many attendees choose to dress up in cocktail attire to match the elegant yet understated vibe of the Kit Kat Club. It’s not required, but it can add to the overall experience.
Food and Beverage Options
The Kit Kat Club offers a selection of themed beverages and light snacks available for purchase before the show and during intermission. The drinks menu includes classic cocktails inspired by the 1930s, as well as non-alcoholic options. Beverages can be enjoyed at your table during the performance, adding to the cabaret-style atmosphere.
For those looking to dine before or after the show, the August Wilson Theater is located near several excellent dining options. Nearby restaurants include Joe Allen, known for its American fare and theater-themed decor, and Bar Centrale, a hidden gem offering craft cocktails and small plates. For a more upscale dining experience, you can visit The Lambs Club, which offers a pre-theater menu perfect for a night out on Broadway.
Additional Information: Accessibility and Special Accommodations
The Kit Kat Club at the August Wilson Theater is committed to providing an accessible experience for all guests. There is a separate entrance for those with mobility issues, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the show. The theater also offers assisted listening devices and captioning services for guests with hearing impairments. If you require any special accommodations, it’s recommended to contact the theater in advance to ensure a smooth experience.
