An article just came out in the RGJ about the recent rise of burlesque and cabaret companies in the city of Reno. The author of the article examined each of the companies and attempted to answer the question of: Why burlesque? Why cabaret? It seems that most shows these days peg themselves as a cabaret show. I think that cabaret is a large umbrella term used to convey the richness and variety of a show without having to go into too much detail. Cabaret could apply that there is a comedic element to the show with stand-up or little skits/sketches or could simply imply to the use of music and singers to move a show along. When I use the word cabaret to describe a production I think the biggest element to factor in is the connection and relationship that the actors/actresses on stage have with the audience. Cabaret is all about the audience - whether it is a extremely sexy & talented and yet incredibly humble host mingling & bantering with the audience during the show or audience members getting dragged up on stage and thus becoming part of the overall production. 

In some ways, it is always about the audience. You have to deliver a show that is catered to them, one that they will enjoy. Slapping the label of cabaret onto the title of your show allows for greater creative and artistic freedom. It gives the opportunity for the company to be exploratory in what they put on stage and not have to adhere to certain rules and regulations.

Funny story about the article is that unfortunately there were one or two typos in the piece. The article called me the producer and director for the company - a statement that did not go over too well with the actual producer and director for the show. He acknowledged that it was a mistake and not a big deal .... then I had to inform him that they spell his name wrong .... that was more of a bigger deal ;) But other than that it is a fabulous article. Check out a copy of the article here or visit my PRESS ROOM for a copy of the article