In its latest production, the Department of Performing Arts welcomes us to Berlin.
Set in 1931 Weimar Germany, "Cabaret" was directed by DPA professor Gail Humphries Mardirosian as part of the events celebrating the Greenberg Theatre’s 10th anniversary of its opening. "Cabaret" focuses on those living in the shadow of history while living it up at the sleazy Kit Kat Klub.
Bringing together John Van Druten’s 1951 play "I Am a Camera" and a 1939 short novel by Christopher Isherwood, "Cabaret" follows a young American writer (played by College of Arts and Sciences sophomore Grant Saunders) on his journey to Berlin in search of inspiration.
What he finds there is nothing he could have expected, and he is subsequently drawn in by this bold and vibrant city, at the center of which is the cabaret. Through the cabaret he finds the beguiling performer Sally Bowles (played brilliantly by Hayley Travers, CAS sophomore) and so ensues their odd and tumultuous relationship.
But in the midst of their ups and downs, the cabaret remains center stage, showcasing the bawdy and rebellious nature of Berlin nightlife. Brought to life on the Greenberg stage, the Kit Kat Klub is an audaciously lascivious romp, full of intrigue and entertainment which the audience navigates through with the help of a captivating master of ceremonies, the Emcee, played by a marvelous Shannon McArdle (School of International Service senior). Guiding the show through the vast cultural territory it explores, he manages to keep the audience engaged with this important yet lengthy musical.
"Cabaret" bears special significance to AU as it was the first musical presented at the Greenberg Theatre when it opened its doors 10 years ago. Upon seeing its newest production one can understand why it holds such a dear place in musical theater at AU, and simply in general.
"Cabaret" offers a show quite unlike any other. So please answer its call. Your seat is waiting.
thescene@theeagleonline.com
