Adelaide Festival Centre is located on Kaurna Yarta. We respect First Nations people around Australia and acknowledge the Kaurna people as the traditional custodians of the Adelaide Plains. We honour their spiritual relationship with their country and we do so in the spirit of reconciliation.
The Hon Peter Malinauskas MP Premier of South Australia
My government is a proud supporter of Adelaide Cabaret Festival — a much-loved part of South Australia’s festivals and events calendar.
From its humble roots, it’s now the largest festival of its kind in the world, attracting
The Hon Andrea Michaels MP Minister for Arts South Australia
Our wonderful Adelaide Cabaret Festival is a gem in the international calendar, full of playful artists who are at the very top of their career and who love nothing more than to be invited to this
Douglas Gautier AM CEO & Artistic Director, Adelaide Festival Centre
Welcome to Adelaide Cabaret Festival 2024. We are delighted to welcome award-winning Australian actor, writer, and television personality Virginia Gay as Artistic Director. If you were lucky enough to see her host The 2023 Variety Gala, you will know that
Alex Sinclair Executive Producer, Adelaide Cabaret Festival
Virginia Gay has a warmth and effervescence that is intoxicating. When you meet her in the foyers (as you undoubtedly will!) you’ll know exactly what I mean. This same glorious energy flows effortlessly through the program of Virginia’s first
fun-loving travellers to our world-class festival city.
South Australia has always embraced the arts and creative industries, and the success of the iconic Adelaide Cabaret Festival is a true example of this.
highly acclaimed festival. You are never alone when you’re attending Adelaide Cabaret Festival and I look forward to seeing you there and soaking it all in at Adelaide Festival Centre in June.
cabaret is in her blood. Virginia has brought together icons like Patti LuPone and Lisa Simone, homegrown talent like Emma Donovan and Kate Miller-Heidke, as well as championing brand new works especially commissioned just for us. We can’t wait.
Adelaide Cabaret Festival as Artistic Director. An ardent supporter of new writers and also a passionate fan of the classics; her program has it all. As ever, it’s my great honour to bring this festival to you. Wrap up warm and soak it in.
My favourite thing in the world is bringing delicious things to people I adore. Introducing strangers who I know will become fast friends. Getting to a favourite restaurant and ordering for the table because “if we don’t get six of the little crispy guys, and two of this dessert, we’re gonna be furious.” So, imagine my delight when the glorious Alex Sinclair approached me with this — a job where I get to not only find the most extraordinary acts in the world for you, but also get to scream with wild enthusiasm about them at every opportunity — and no one can stop me!
I’ve been a nervous and grateful artist here, a euphoric and irrepressible audience member, and it is my great privilege and honour to be this festival's current Artistic Director. But I am first and foremost a fan, so please excuse me as I squeal into my sequined pillow about how exciting this program is, and if I bail you up in foyers and say “Oooo, if you loved that, you’re gonna LOVE this, and if you fang it now, you’ll catch it!” — you can’t be cross with me. It’s my job. Scan
Adelaide Festival Centre
AG Adelaide Gin pop-up bar — AS Artspace Bar
BR Banquet Room – DP Dunstan Playhouse
FT Festival Theatre — LL Lexus Lounge
QB Quartet Bar by Corryton Burge
SKB The Star: Kitchen and Bar
ST Space Theatre
Venue Bars
Plans sorted with these hand-picked packages by Artistic Director Virginia Gay.
With one click you can book Premium tickets to three shows on the same day, with plenty of time in between to grab a drink, have a bite and discuss all things cabaret. Throw in a cocktail or two and we’ll have you partying into the night.
All packages include one drink voucher and must be collected from an Adelaide Festival Centre Box Office.
Check the T&Cs on page 63.
Are you under the age of 30?
Spot the shows with U30s $30 prices throughout this year’s program.
Check the T&Cs on page 63.
Generously supported by Vili's Family Bakery.
Box Office (Ground Floor)
For more information on How to Book, Venue Details, Parking, and Getting Here see page 63
Sat 8 June $152 6pm
Christie Whelan Browne – Life in Plastic A Slightly Isolated Dog – Jekyll & Hyde
Mark Nadler – Hootenanny
Sun 9 June $172
5pm
Gillian Cosgriff – Actually, Good Kate Miller-Heidke – Catching Diamonds
Mark Nadler – Hootenanny
Fri 14 June $123
7pm 9pm 10.15pm Musical Bang Bang
Mel & Sam – The Best Of Victoria Falconer – The Parlour
Sat 15 June $202
3pm 6pm 8pm
Amber Martin – Queen of The Silver Dollar
Michelle Pearson – Skinny Swing on This – 10th Anniversary
Sun 16 June $157
Jennifer Byrne – Between the Covers
Maeve Marsden – Homage
Michelle Pearson – Skinny
Fri 21 June $143 6.30pm 8pm 10.15pm
Comedians On Stage Auditioning for Musicals
Christina Bianco – In Divine Company
Reuben Kaye – The End
Sat 22 June $148 6.30pm 8pm 10.15pm
Comedians On Stage Auditioning for Musicals
Imogen Kelly – Bent Burlesque
Reuben Kaye – The End
Adelaide Cabaret Festival presents
Hosted by Virginia Gay
She’s back!
Adelaide Cabaret Festival’s 2024 iconic opening night celebration will be hosted by Artistic Director and Chief Mischief Maker™️ Virginia Gay.
Wear your cabaret best or come as you are for a delicious smorgasbord of world-class music, wit, and mayhem from local and international stars.
Festival Theatre
Fri 7 June, 7pm 120 mins
(Includes 20 min interval)
Prem $140
A Res $120
B Res $99
Suitability: 16+
Warnings: Haze effects
Director Mitchell Butel
Musical Director Shanon Whitelock
Photo: Claudio Raschella
Australia
Adelaide Premiere
From Coachella to Eurovision, Kate MillerHeidke’s inimitable fusion of folk, pop, opera, and musical theatre has captivated all manner of audiences throughout her award-winning career.
Catching Diamonds sees her sparkle alongside collaborator Keir Nuttall in a riveting showcase of original hits, musical numbers, unexpected covers, and debut material from her forthcoming sixth studio album.
Dunstan Playhouse
Sat 8 June, 8.30pm
Sun 9 June, 8pm 90 mins (no interval)
Prem $84
A Res $79
Suitability: All ages
Warnings: Haze effects
“Indie-pop for adults … smart, challenging and mature pop music.”
Rolling Stone Magazine
Photo: Jo Duck
Rock runs in her blood. Blues roars from her lungs.
Mahalia Barnes, beloved festival favourite, is set to rip the lid off Adelaide Festival Centre with a voice that can belt it with the best of them.
Prepare to be engulfed in a funk soul frenzy guaranteed to exhilarate and electrify.
Banquet Room
Fri 7 June, 7.15pm
Sun 9 June, 7pm 60 mins
Prem $54
A Res $49
B Res $44
Suitability: All ages
United Kingdom
Australian Premiere
Name a more iconic cabaret trio than Fascinating Aïda. We’ll wait…
Since their first performance together in 1983, these queens have proven their diamond-sharp satire, lyrical wit, and belligerent sass only gets better with age.
Equal parts poignant, filthy, and outrageous, you won’t want to miss this ruby celebration with the riotous Fascinating Aïda.
Dunstan Playhouse
Fri 7 June, 8.15pm
Sat 8 June, 4.30pm
Sun 9 June, 4.30pm
70 mins
Prem $109
A Res $99
Suitability: 16+
Warnings: Coarse language, sexual references, references to death/dying
“Sophisticated satirical songs, performed by jazz-age cabaret muso-dames … Hips! Lips! Tits! Power!”
Stewart LeeFrom Virginia
“More than a comedy show, it’s a tiny revolution in how to view the world.”
The Scotsman
Actually, Good
Gillian Cosgriff won Most Outstanding Show at the 2023 Melbourne International Comedy Festival with this brilliant hour of hilarious original songs, killer stand-up, and a big book of things that are actually, good. This is a show about the little things that make the big, hard things manageable, and pointing at the bits of the world that make you shout, “WOW! Isn’t this GREAT?!”
Space Theatre
Sat 8 June, 3pm, 6pm
Sun 9 June, 5pm 60 mins
Prem $49
A Res $44
U30s $30
Suitability: 16+
Warnings: Coarse language, adult themes, references to death/dying
A Slightly Isolated Dog (Don Juan) is triumphantly returning to the Adelaide Cabaret Festival stage with a madcap take on Robert Louis Stevenson’s novella. Raucous, irreverent, and delightfully absurd, Jekyll & Hyde creates a pandemonium of theatre, music, and comedy to celebrate the darkness within us all.
Space Theatre
Fri 7 June, 7.30pm
Sat 8 June, 9pm
Sun 9 June, 2pm 60 mins
Prem $59
A Res $54
U30s $30
Suitability: 16+
Warnings: Coarse language, strobe lighting, simulated smoking, violent themes/ imagery, haze effects, adult themes
“An absolute tour de force of modern theatre practice...No matter how dark you feel before you come, that darkness will disappear during this blackest, and sexiest of comedies.”
Theatreview
Photo: Andi Crown
New Zealand Adelaide Premiere
From Virginia 11
Australia
World Premiere and Adelaide Exclusive
Fill your cup and soak your sequins in the free-flowing love only Libby O’Donovan OAM has the power to pour.
The 2022 Cabaret Icon enshrines the Quartet Bar into a temple of spontaneous sing-a-longs and all-round pandemonium. Pop in for a couple or stay the whole night; either way, you’re bound to leave feeling gay.
Quartet Bar
Fri 7 – Sun 9 June, 9.30pm
FREE
“Her versatility extends from subtle, sensitive tendencies to the exuberant qualities of a big-voiced diva.”
Kryztoff RAW
Australia
Beloved Adelaide Cabaret Festival institution Dr. Trevor Jones is back behind the grand piano for his nightly Piano Man extravaganza. Sharing the spotlight with surprise guests and always accommodating fans’ special requests, the king of the keys will have you singing your heart out and buzzing all the way home.
Quartet Bar
Thu 13 – Sat 15 June, 9.30pm
Sun 16 June, 9pm
Wed 19 – Sat 22 June, 9.30pm
FREE
“A crowd favourite at the Adelaide Cabaret Festival.”
Glam Adelaide
Photo: Claudio Raschella From Virginia
When her hot pink world is shattered after a trip to the gyno, our heroine is left wondering whether her plastic life is shiny or suffocating.
Christie Whelan Browne’s brandnew bubblegum pop cabaret is a dizzying array of disco hits and a sparkly celebration of sisterhood, because girls just wanna have fundamental rights.
Written by Lou WallBanquet Room
Sat 8 June, 3pm & 6pm 60 mins
Prem $54
A Res $49
B Res $44
U30s $30
Suitability: 16+
Warnings: Coarse language, adult themes
“[An] incredible gift for comic acting.”
The AgeAustralia World Premiere Artistic Director’s Fund From Virginia
This world-class Indigenous singer merges her magnificent operatic voice with soaring pop moods in her new show, A Fine Romance
It’s her homage to the jazz, blues, opera, and rock that have shaped her truly unique sound and genredefying voice.
Space Theatre
Thu 13 June, 6pm
65 mins
Prem $49
A Res $44
Suitability: All ages
“From the very first song, her voice leapt off the stage… she shaped the introduction, the tension, the pathos, the climax and drama.”
Gillian Wills, Arts HubFrom Virginia
Amber Martin, celebrated NYC country vocalist, ‘queen of the crescendo’, and veteran of the cabaret stage, invites you to join her on a sonic journey into the Deep South.
Amid the byways and bayous, she shares her story so far through a one-woman cast of characters, masterfully weaving together a life’s worth of memories.
Banquet Room
Thu 13 June, 6pm
Sat 15 June, 3pm
Sun 16 June, 7.30pm
70 mins
Prem $59
A Res $54
B Res $49
Suitability: 18+
Warnings: Coarse language, nudity, haze effects, adult themes
“Amber Martin is the complete package.”
The Advertiser
A decade ago, South-Australian darling Annabel Crabb and her more-famous-butfrom-Queensland colleague Leigh Sales, idly started a podcast named after an obscure lyric from A Chorus Line. Now a cult favourite, this beloved pair celebrate the podcast’s tenth year, joined by the cream of the cabaret crop. Don’t miss this ... one ... singular sensation!
Festival Theatre
Thu 13 June, 7.30pm 90 mins (no interval)
Prem $59
A Res $54
B Res $49
Suitability: 12+
Warnings: Coarse language, adult themes
Photo: Stephen Blake Photographic
Hopelessly Devoted celebrates the decades-long legacy of the late luminary, Dame Olivia Newton-John.
Experience the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra in concert with Australia’s brightest musical talents performing iconic hits from the box-office smash Grease, the cult classic film Xanadu and Newton-John’s canon of best-selling records.
Jessica Gethin – Conductor Mark Sutcliffe – Creative Director
Festival Theatre
Sat 15 June, 7.30pm 120 mins (Includes 20 min interval)
Prem $129
A Res $119
B Res $109
Suitability: All ages
Warnings: Haze effects
Australia
Adelaide Premiere
DAVID CAMPBELL 2001
DavidCampbell
Jess Hitchcock
GeorginaHopson
Christie Whelan Browne
CABARET
From Virginia
Sharp-tongued and self-deprecating, singing sisters Flo & Joan are Now Playing Adelaide Cabaret Festival... whether you like it or not. Seriously funny songs, masterfully performed with slick piano and percussion and a distinctively deadpan charm. Just be warned — you’ll still be humming their tunes a week later.
Space Theatre
Wed 12 June, 7pm, Thu 13 June, 9pm
Fri 14 June, 6pm, Sat 15 June, 9pm 60 mins
Prem $64
A Res $59
Suitability: All ages
“If Flanders & Swann and Flight of the Conchords and Garfunkel & Oates had a sixway time-travelling gang-bang that somehow mixed all their DNA, the offspring might end up sounding something like Flo & Joan.”
ChortlePhoto: Matt Crockett United Kingdom Australian Exclusive
Hear Rhonda’s Tall Tales of the rich and famous, from Presidents to Hollywood stars, Grammy winners to take away dinners, this literal icon shares wicked and wonderful stories — and killer songs — as only she can.
Dunstan Playhouse
Wed 12 June, 7.30pm 70 mins
Prem $59
A Res $54
Suitability: 12+
Warnings: Haze effects
“Funny, engaging and fearless… She has a voice that barely needs a microphone”
The Sydney Morning Herald
Photo: Richard De Chazal Australia World Premiere and Adelaide Exclusive From VirginiaAustralia
Adelaide Premiere
Starring Catherine Alcorn
Batten down the hatches and get ready to spend an unforgettable evening with award-winning Catherine Alcorn in her most iconic role yet.
A delightful bombardment of irreverent humour and dazzling talent, Alcorn takes you on a thrilling rollercoaster ride as she channels legendary Bette Midler.
Backed by an all-star live band and dancers, don’t miss your chance to catch this scintillating concert experience.
Dunstan Playhouse
Thu 13 June, 7.30pm 85 mins (no interval)
Prem $59
A Res $54
Suitability: 16+
Warnings: Coarse language, strobe lighting, haze effects, adult themes
Directed by Ted Robinson
Choreographer Cameron Mitchell
Originally created by Peter Cox
“A master performer. With a voice like that you can do anything!”
Sydney Arts GuidePhoto: John McRae From Virginia
Australia’s kings of swing celebrate a decade on the stage with a new show that’ll really pop your cork.
Leading men Luke Kennedy (The Voice Australia), Matt Lee (Frozen), Ben Mingay (Shrek) and Bert LaBonté (Moulin Rouge) show us how it’s done: with razor sharp wit and easy Vegas charm. Suave, slick, and oh-so-swoon-worthy.
Dunstan Playhouse
Fri 14 June, 7.30pm
Sat 15 June, 8pm
70 mins
Prem $89
A Res $84
Suitability: 12+
Warnings: Haze effects, loud music, colourful lights and plenty of swagger
“They brought the house down!”
The Advertiser
Australia
World Premiere
Hosted by Jennifer Byrne
This show is a work in progress
The seas are rising, the bees are vanishing and her love life’s in shambles. Isobel’s going out.
Hold on as she hurtles through one glorious night of dancing and story-spinning towards the end of the world.
Feel the wings buzzing inside you, pop on your heels and come dance.
Quartet Bar
Sat 8, Sun 9 June, 6pm
60 mins (15 mins in conversation)
Tickets $39
U30s $30
Suitability: 16+
Warnings: Coarse language
Journalist Jennifer Byrne and author Marieke Hardy join Virginia Gay in this cabaret take on ABC’s The Book Club. Slip ‘between the covers’ of The Great Gatsby with some great chat and killer live music.
Dust off your copy of this classic, join a table of friends (or friends-to-be), and cosy up in this warm hug of a Sunday arvo.
Banquet Room
Sun 16 June, 3pm 60 mins
All Tickets $49
Suitability: All ages
Warnings: Coarse language
Australia World Premiere From Virginia Photo: Laura Franklin Isobel Marmion, Caitlin Ellen Moore, Kidaan Zelleke BUMBLING has been developed with the support of InSpace at Adelaide Festival Centre. From VirginiaCome aboard as Darby James sets sail into the unchartered waters of sperm donation, in this absurd and award-winning cabaret comedy adventure.
Raw, brilliant, and ludicrously funny, Darby delights as a seaman searching for his true north, asking the deep questions that fuel his queer existential confusion: why, how, when, and should we really be having children?
Quartet Bar
Fri 14 June, 6pm
Sat 15 June, 6pm
60 mins
Tickets $39
U30s $30
Suitability: 16+
Experience the manic mixtape of award-winning musical comedians Mel & Sam — raucous, bratty, and proudly queer, spearheading a new era of contemporary cabaret.
There’ll be original hits (High Pony, Sh*tWrecked), outrageous anecdotes, and synth lines so dirty they’ll make you want to rip your clothes off and call your ex.
Space Theatre
Fri 14 June, 9pm
60 mins
Tickets $39
“James is a major talent on the ascent.”
Theatre Matters
Warnings: Coarse language, adult themes, sexual references
“Screamingly funny.”
The Advertiser
U30s $30
Suitability: 16+
Warnings: Coarse language, violent themes/imagery, adult themes
Photo: Liv Morison Photo: I Got Shot By Charlie Australia Adelaide Premiere Australia World Premiere and Adelaide Exclusive From Virginia From VirginiaAustralia
Australian Premiere & Adelaide Exclusive
Musical Bang Bang is the neverbefore-seen live theatre spectacular that shoots from the hip without a script in sight.
Actor-comedians Jane Watt (Godspell) and Rob Johnson (Calamity Jane) lead an extremely brave and slightly mad ensemble including the illustrious Julia Zemiro and Tom Cardy. They’ll come up with a brand-new musical every night entirely on the spot.
Banquet Room
Fri 14, Sat 15 June, 7pm
60 mins
All tickets $45
Suitability: 16+
Warnings: Musical Bang Bang is cute as hell, but invariably contains adult themes and some strong language. The show may also contain traces of Jane Watt, egg, chlorofluorocarbons, and Rob Johnson.
Cast:
Jane Watt
Julia Zemiro
Tom Cardy
Victoria Falconer
Rob Johnson
Orya Golgowsky and Virginia Gay
Photo: Kate Cornish From Virginia“Skinny” is more than a word. It’s a societal chokehold; an absurd universe of shakes, shapewear and shifty surgeons. But there is an alternative.
In this empowering fusion of pop, power ballads and biting comedy, multiaward-winning singer, Michelle Pearson, encourages us to face the mirror and embrace our bodies for all they are.
Space Theatre
Sat 15, Sun 16 June, 6pm 70 mins
Prem $54
A Res $49
U30s $30
Suitability: 16+
Warnings: Coarse language, adult themes, references to diet culture, eating disorders, and mental health
“A joy to the ears — sensual and pitch perfect, with a belt to envy.”
Stage Whispers
Photo: Brent Leideritz Australia World Premiere From VirginiaMichael Cassel Group in association with Adelaide Festival Centre presents
Conceived and Directed by Scott Wittman
Music Direction and Arrangements by Joseph Thalken
Written by Jeffrey Richman
Music has the power to crystallise a moment in time and evoke eras. In her new concert, Patti LuPone: A Life in Notes, the three-time Tony Award winner performs an array of songs which do just that— songs that are touchstones and reflections on her life growing up in America. The songs range from her youth during the burgeoning rock and roll scene of the fifties, to coming of age in the politically and socially turbulent sixties, to eventually achieving success with both career and family.
Festival Theatre
Wed 19 June, 8pm 120 mins
(Includes 20 min interval)
Prem $149
A Res $129
B Res $99
Suitability: 12+
Warnings: Occasional strong language
“Many try, but few have the knockout punch of LuPone.”
The Washington Post
The late night, never-know-what-you’regonna-get variety shows are the last taste of cabaret in your mouth before sleep, and this team of irrepressible cuties expertly curates wild-as-hell nights to deliver the most fevered dreams around.
All mischief, some chaos, never to be repeated, miss-it-and-you-missed-it.
This is our late-night cabaret church. Raise your hands, kick up your heels and don’t let the party stop — keep dancing into the night with our resident DJs.
Who’s going home? Not us! After all ... what good is sitting alone in your room?
You really haven’t cabaret-ed until you’ve Hootenanny-ed.
Bursting with charisma and armed with his trusty rubber chook, Mr. Showbiz dazzles in another free-wheeling party of songs, stories, and mayhem.
Joined by a feast of special guests, the piano-pounding New Yorker always delivers sell-out shows and standing ovations.
Banquet Room
Fri 7, Sat 8, Sun 9 June, 10.15pm 90 mins (no interval)
All tickets $39
Suitability: 16+
Warnings: Coarse language, adult themes
From Virginia Photo: Claudio Raschella
The Parlour
Pull back the curtain and enter The Parlour, hosted by Adelaide’s own Victoria Falconer. This late-night performer-playground is bringing you a handpicked mix of circus, songs, and burlesque, soundtracked by a live band. It’s the late-night salon we both need AND deserve.
Featuring a selection of acclaimed artists from our glittering festival program and beyond, expect extreme levels of high-femme, high-fabulousness, and high-who-knowswtf-will-happen!
Do not miss your chance to experience this divine and delicious chaos.
Banquet Room
Fri 14, Sat 15 June, 10.15pm 90 mins (no interval)
All tickets $39
Suitability: 18+
Warnings: Coarse language, nudity, haze effects, adult themes
Join actress, model, and the Disney villain we all want to sleep with, Reuben Kaye, as we sing songs for the end of the world ... and the festival!
It’s mischief and fabulous anarchy as only Reuben does it, you’ll be transported, aroused, and possibly baptised by a cavalcade of stars, and his tight-as-hell three piece band’ Don’t grieve that it’s over, celebrate that it happened, and join us for the party to end all parties in the foyer afterwards.
Banquet Room
Fri 21, Sat 22 June, 10.15pm
90 mins (no interval)
All tickets $39
Suitability: 18+
Warnings: Coarse language, nudity, simulated smoking, haze effects, adult themes
Musical Director Shanon Whitelock
From Virginia From Virginia Photo: Claudio Raschella Photo: Jacinta Oaten Australia World Premiere and Adelaide ExclusiveFRIDAY
7 JUNE
7pm
The 2024 Variety Gala
pg4 FT 120 mins
7.15pm
Mahalia Barnes & The Soulmates
pg7 BR 60 mins
7.30pm
A Slightly Isolated DogJekyll & Hyde
pg11 ST 60 mins
8.15pm
Fascinating Aïda –40th Anniversary Show!
pg8 DP 70 mins
9.30pm
Libby
O’DonovanBig Gay Sing pg12 QB
10.15pm
Mark Nadler –Hootenanny
pg30 BR 90 mins
SATURDAY
8 JUNE
3pm
Cabaret Life
Drawing pg50 AS 60 mins
3pm
Christie Whelan
Browne - Life in Plastic pg13 BR 60 mins
3pm
Gillian Cosgriff –Actually, Good pg10 ST 60 mins
4.30pm
Fascinating Aïda –40th Anniversary Show!
pg8 DP 70 mins
6pm
Isobel Marmion – BUMBLING pg24 QB 60 mins
6pm
Christie Whelan
Browne - Life in Plastic pg13 BR 60 mins
6pm
Gillian Cosgriff –Actually, Good pg10 ST 60 mins
8.30pm
Kate MillerHeidke –Catching Diamonds pg6 DP 90 mins
9pm
A Slightly
Isolated DogJekyll & Hyde pg11 ST 60 mins
9.30pm
Libby
O’DonovanBig Gay Sing pg12 QB
10.15pm
Mark Nadler –Hootenanny pg30 BR 90 mins
SUNDAY
9 JUNE
2pm
A Slightly Isolated DogJekyll & Hyde pg11 ST 60 mins
2pm
Sonya and Jules
Live in Cabaret pg50 BR 90 mins
3pm
Cabaret Life
Drawing pg50 AS 60 mins
4.30pm
Fascinating Aïda –40th Anniversary Show!
pg8 DP 70 mins
5pm
Gillian Cosgriff –Actually, Good pg10 ST 60 mins
6pm
Isobel Marmion – BUMBLING
pg24 QB 60 mins
7pm
Mahalia Barnes & The Soulmates pg7 BR 60 mins
8pm
Kate MillerHeidke –Catching Diamonds pg6 DP 90 mins
9.30pm
Libby
O’DonovanBig Gay Sing pg12 QB
10.15pm
Mark Nadler –Hootenanny pg30 BR 90 mins
WEDNESDAY
12 JUNE
7pm
Flo & Joan –Now Playing pg20 ST 60 mins
7.30pm
Rhonda Burchmore –Tall Tales pg21 DP 70 mins
THURSDAY
13 JUNE
6pm
Amber Martin – Queen of The Silver Dollar pg15 BR 70 mins
6pm
Jess Hitchcock – A Fine Romance pg14 ST 65 mins
7.30pm
Leigh Sales, Annabel Crabb - Chat 10 Looks
3 Live pg16 FT 90 mins
7.30pm Catherine Alcorn – The Divine Miss Bette pg22 DP 85 mins
9pm
Flo & Joan –Now Playing pg20 ST 60 mins
9.30pm Dr Trevor Jones – Piano Man pg12 QB
FRIDAY
14 JUNE
6pm
Flo & Joan –Now Playing pg20 ST 60 mins
6pm
Darby James –Little Squirt pg25 QB 60 mins
7pm Musical Bang Bang pg26 BR 60mins
7.30pm
Swing on This –10th Anniversary pg23 DP 70 mins
9pm
Mel & Sam – The Best Of pg25 ST 60 mins
9.30pm
Dr Trevor Jones – Piano Man pg12 QB
10.15pm
Victoria Falconer - The Parlour pg31 BR 90 mins
SATURDAY
15 JUNE
3pm
Amber Martin – Queen of The Silver Dollar pg15 BR 70 mins
6pm
Michelle Pearson – Skinny pg27 ST 70 mins
6pm
Darby James –Little Squirt pg25 QB 60 mins
7pm Musical Bang Bang pg26 BR 60mins
7.30pm Hopelessly Devoted pg18 FT 120 mins
8pm Swing on This –10th Anniversary pg23 DP 70 mins
9pm
Flo & Joan –Now Playing pg20 ST 60 mins
9.30pm Dr Trevor Jones – Piano Man pg12 QB
10.15pm
Victoria Falconer - The Parlour pg31 BR 90 mins
SUNDAY
16 JUNE
1pm
LGBTIQ+ Elders Dance Club pg44 QB 90 mins
3pm
Jennifer Byrne - Between the Covers pg24 BR 60 mins
4.30pm
Maeve Marsden – Homage pg46 DP 75 mins
6pm
Michelle Pearson –Skinny pg27 ST 70 mins
7.30pm
Amber Martin – Queen of The Silver Dollar pg15 BR 70 mins
9.30pm
Dr Trevor Jones – Piano Man pg12 QB
Venues
Artspace AS
Banquet Room BR
Dunstan Playhouse DP
Festival Theatre FT
Quartet Bar QB
Space Theatre ST FREE Event
WEDNESDAY
19 JUNE
6pm
Cassie Hamilton - A Transgender Woman on the Internet, Crying pg47 BR 70 mins
7pm
Johanna Allen – Pop Culture Vulture pg43 DP 70 mins
7.30pm
Murder For Two pg40 ST 95 mins
8pm
Patti LuPone: A Life in Notes pg28 FT 120 mins
9.30pm
Dr Trevor Jones – Piano Man pg12 QB
THURSDAY
20 JUNE
6pm
Emma Pask
AC-CENTTCHU-ATES The Positive pg39 BR 70 mins
7.30pm
Murder For Two pg40 ST 95 mins
8pm
Emma Donovan – Til My Song is Done Album
Launch pg38 DP 60 mins
9.30pm
Dr Trevor Jones – Piano Man pg12 QB
9.30pm
iOTA –Enter the Dragon pg46 BR 70 mins
FRIDAY
21 JUNE
6.30pm Comedians on Stage Auditioning for Musicals pg42 BR 75 mins
7.30pm
Missy Higgins –The Second Act Tour pg48 FT 140 mins
7.30
Murder For Two pg40 ST 95 mins 8pm
Christina Biano – In Devine Company pg35 DP 75 mins
9.30pm
Dr Trevor Jones – Piano Man pg12 QB
10.15pm
Reuben KayeThe End pg31 BR 90 mins
SATURDAY
22 JUNE
3pm
Class of Cabaret
pg49 ST 70 mins
4.30pm
Christina Bianco – In Divine Company pg35 DP 70 mins
6pm
Class of Cabaret pg49 ST 70 mins
6.30pm Comedians on Stage Auditioning for Musicals pg42 BR 75 mins
8pm
Lisa Simone “Keeper of the Flame” pg36 FT 105 mins
8pm
Imogen Kelly –Bent Burlesque pg45 DP 80 mins
9.30pm
Dr Trevor Jones – Piano Man pg12 QB
10.15pm
Reuben KayeThe End pg31 BR 90 mins
Artspace AS
Banquet Room BR
Dunstan Playhouse DP
Festival Theatre FT
Quartet Bar QB
United Kingdom
Your favourite divas are taking to the stage through ‘the woman of a thousand voices’, Christina Bianco.
Bask in Bianco as she celebrates iconic musical heroines with her own soaring vocals, comedic charm, and uncanny impressions; from the brassy riffs of Dion to the rich vibrato of Bassey.
Don’t miss this award-winning, rave-reviewed, fresh-from-London, stage extravaganza.
Dunstan Playhouse
Fri 21 June, 8pm
Sat 22 June, 4.30pm
75 mins
Prem $59
A Res $54
Suitability: 12+
“A comic firecracker with a pyrotechnic voice, drives the audience wild…!”
Time Out
Photo: William Ernst Australian Premiere From VirginiaDame Lisa Simone’s voice and prowess as a live entertainer has not only earned her worldwide recognition, but practically every accolade, including starring roles on Broadway and chart-topping albums.
Adelaide Festival Centre is proud to present this highly anticipated exclusive in which Simone, accompanied by an All-Star Big Band comprising some of Australia’s finest musicians, reprises iconic classics of her mother, Dr. Nina Simone, as only she can.
Festival Theatre
Sat 22 June, 8pm 105 mins
(Includes 20 min interval)
Prem $129
A Res $119
B Res $99
Suitability: All ages
“Commanding and beyond compare, there is a lushness to Simone’s voice that could best be described as transcendental… Lisa Simone is THE legacy.”
Matthew Hocter, Beyond The Encore.
Australia
Adelaide Premiere
From soul-soaring gospel to ARIAnominated blues and roots albums to the protest music of Indigenous Australia, Emma Donovan’s (The Donovans, Black Arm Band, The Putbacks) musical talent knows no bounds.
Now, the Noongar and Gumbaynggirr woman commands the stage in her supreme solo glory to sing stories of Country and community.
Dunstan Playhouse
Thu 20 June, 8pm
60 mins
Prem $59
A Res $54
Suitability: All ages
“Donovan can front a well-oiled soul band in her sleep.”Photo: Ian Laidlaw From Virginia
Australia
Adelaide Premiere and Exclusive
Composer Harold Arlen’s timeless works like ‘Over the Rainbow’, ‘Stormy Weather’, and ‘I’ve Got the World on a String’ have become embedded in the American songbook.
Award-winning vocalist Emma Pask, accompanied by her spirited jazz trio, will leave you spellbound with an intimate musical portrait of the genius behind the greats.
Banquet Room
Thu 20 June, 6pm
70 mins
Prem $59
A Res $54
B Res $49
Suitability: All ages
Photo: Kurt Sneddon From Virginia
Photo: Phil Erbacher
Design: Kenney Designs
From Virginia
Presented by Hayes Theatre Co in association with Adelaide Festival Centre
Strap in for 95 minutes of mystery, music and mayhem. When the great American Novelist Arthur Whitney is shot, small-town cop Marcus Moscowicz jumps at the chance to prove his sleuthing skills.
Did Whitney’s wife give him a big finish? Or is the prima ballerina the prime suspect? Two performers play 13 roles (and the piano!) in this smash-hit whodunnit.
Space Theatre
Wed 19, Thu 20, Fri 21 June, 7.30pm 95 mins (no interval)
All tickets $69
Suitability: All ages
Warnings: Haze effects, themes of murder, coarse language, loud noises, simulated gunshots
Artists
Gabbi Bolt & Matthew Predny Director
Richard Carroll
“There is a panache to the parody that is rollicking fun… capital-E entertainment.”
Sydney Morning Herald
Step into the audition room of Michelle Brasier and her turtlenecked ex-ex-husband–director, Ben Russell, as they team up to find the next big star of the Wagga Wagga Amateur Musical Theatre Society.
Banquet Room
Fri 21, Sat 22 June, 6.30pm
75 mins
Tickets $45
U30s $30
Suitability: 16+
Warnings: Coarse language, adult themes Australia Adelaide Exclusive
This absolutely bonkers evening of improvisation and insanity transforms the awfulness of auditioning into a comedic masterpiece.
Whether you come for the cameos, the classic hits, or the crash-and-burns, this world-colliding cult hit is one that deserves a callback.
“If
auditioning was this much fun in real life, we’d all do it.”
Glam Adelaide
Photo: Claudio Raschella From VirginiaLike a cabaret bin chicken, Johanna Allen picks through her favourite musical morsels — from pop to Puccini — to create a playlist of torch songs that survive the test of TikTok.
Embracing the pioneering provocateurs and the authors of modern-day anthems, Allen shows us that audacity has always existed and will always endure.
Dunstan Playhouse
Wed 19 June, 7pm 70 mins
Prem $54
A Res $49
Suitability: 16+
Warnings: Coarse language, haze effects, adult themes
“Not so much a tall glass, but more a curvy punch bowl of European sass.”
The Age
Photo: Claudio Raschella From VirginiaIt’s the kindest, most inclusive, most warm and welcoming dance event in the queer calendar.
This five-year festival fave returns to bring the fabulous and fabulous-atheart together on the dancefloor.
Designed to ignite a spark in your soul, LGBTIQ+ Elders Dance Club is a celebration for the ages. All of them. No dance experience necessary.
Quartet Bar
Sun 16 June, 1pm
90 mins
FREE Suitability: All ages
“The dance club is a riotous safe space, where all are welcome.”
The Advertiser
Free tea and coffee provided by Office for Ageing Well and Seniors Card.
Australia
Adelaide Premiere
“I loved this show so much I want to marry it.”
Australian Stage
Extravagant, delightfully satirical, and an evisceration of all things pretty — Bent ain’t your average burlesque.
Let Imogen Kelly, crowned World Queen of Burlesque, and her company of celebrated queer artists seduce you into a ribald kaleidoscope of vibrant visuals, electric personalities and a delightful celebration of queer talent.
Dunstan Playhouse
Sat 22 June, 8pm 80 mins
Prem $64
A Res $59
Suitability: 18+
Warnings: Coarse language, nudity, haze effects, adult themes
Photo: Joel Devereux From VirginiaThe protest anthems. The power ballads. The sweat-soaked dancefloor thumpers. This is their homage, where queer musicians play tribute to the queer songs that shaped them.
From George Michael to Janelle Monáe, no genre is off the cards in this all-out celebration of culture and community, hosted by Maeve Marsden and Victoria Falconer.
Dunstan Playhouse
Sun 16 June, 4.30pm
75 mins
Prem $54
A Res $49
U30s $30
Suitability: 16+
Warnings: Strong language, adult themes.
New Zealand-Australia
World Premiere
Enter the Dragon is the introspective retrospective boldly looking to the future with devil-may-care bravado. Performing songs from Hedwig and the Angry Inch, Smoke and Mirrors, Rocky Horror and a rich catalogue of originals, iOTA showcases an intense spectrum of songs that will make you grin, cry and holler.
Banquet Room
Thu 20 June, 9.30pm
70 mins
Prem $49
A Res $45
B Res $39
Suitability: 16+
Warnings: Coarse language
“By the time the artists lined up across the stage after a thumping finale, emotions had been touched, eardrums massaged, and people tumbled out happy and chatty.”
Sydney Arts Guide
From Virginia
TimeOut
Photo: Patrick Boland Photo: Adam DeVille From Virginia “[iOTA] gives the kind of performances that end in sweat-drenched faces and rapturous applause.”A Transgender Woman on the Internet, Crying is a hyper-pop rave war that colourfully collides love, identity, furries, and the power of the trans community. Writer/performer Cassie Hamilton, finalist in the APRA Professional Development Award, will finesse her work over five days before an in-development showcase premieres this heart thumping techno magnificence to the world.
Banquet Room
Wed 19 June, 6pm
70 mins
Adults $39
Students $25
Suitability: 16+
Warnings: Coarse language, violent themes and imagery, adult themes, transphobia, references to suicide
“Hamilton’s words are sharp and beautifully penned…showing off her vast vocabulary and rapier intelligence.”
Theatre Travels
From Virginia
Photo: Marty Theobold
Missy Higgins is unveiling ‘an anniversary tour with a difference’ to celebrate 20 years since her trailblazing debut, The Sound Of White.
This special two-part show will feature brand new songs, plus the live performance of her ARIA award winning album
The Sound Of White in its entirety.
Don’t miss the special return of Missy Higgins.
Festival Theatre
Fri 21 June, 7.30pm
140 mins
(Includes 20 min interval)
Prem $139.90
A Res $119.90
B Res $99.90
Suitability: All ages
Warnings: Haze effects
Photo: Tajette O’Halloran From VirginiaAustralia
World Premiere & Adelaide Exclusive
Sixteen talented senior students from fifteen schools across South Australia take their study to the stage under the guidance of renowned mentors.
Witness the stars of tomorrow as they embark on an extraordinary journey: creating, rehearsing, and performing their own original show in just one semester.
You’ll be entertained, inspired, and wonder why you never got to do anything this cool in school…
Space Theatre
Sat, 22 June, 3pm & 6pm 70 mins
Prem $49
A Res $44
Suitability: 12+
Warnings:
Coarse language
Mentors
Mark Oates, Millicent Sarre Director
Brock Roberts
Musical Director
Ciara Ferguson
Vocal Coach
Rosie Hosking
Photo: Claudio Raschella Adelaide Cabaret Festival presents Class of Cabaret The Nathaniel O’Brien Class of Cabaret Scholarship is supported by Adelaide Festival Centre Foundation.“Something you need to try at least once!”
GlamAdelaide
Pick up the charcoal, settle in with a sketchpad, and turn your gaze toward the stage — it’s the much-anticipated return of Cabaret Life Drawing.
Accompanied by live music (and perhaps a glass of something...) be gently guided to capture the alluring forms and fashions of cabaret, as modelled by live creative muses.
Artspace
Sat 8, Sun 9 June, 3pm 60 mins
Tickets $55
Suitability: 16+
For one special show only, ABC Radio Adelaide’s favourite duo, Sonya Feldhoff and Jules Schiller, return live on stage at Adelaide Cabaret Festival, bringing together a variety of artists for an entertaining taste of cabaret.
There will be music and interviews, plus Sonya and Jules’ spontaneous banter, which is sure to make you smile.
Free tea and coffee available. There will be other refreshments available for purchase.
Banquet Room
Sun 9 June, 2pm
90 mins (no interval)
FREE
Suitability: All ages
Bookings essential
Limited capacity Register at cabaret.adelaidefestivalcentre.com.au
Adelaide Festival presents From Virginia Photo: Claudio Raschella From Virginia Photo: Claudio Raschella Adelaide Adelaide Exclusive
Choose from a variety of food and drink options before, between, and after performances.
Book a table for dinner at The Star: Kitchen and Bar in the Festival Theatre, or share a Woodside cheese platter while your catch up with friends.
We’re thrilled to announce the luxurious new Lexus Lounge, as well as the return of festival darling, the Quartet Bar by Corryton Burge, where your choice of wine is always paired with a good vibe.
Don’t forget to check out the brand new Artspace Bar to find a cosy festival hub with winter warmers and delicious drinks. Cocktail, anyone?
Gin lovers, we’ve got you covered with an Adelaide Gin pop-up bar in the Dunstan Playhouse foyer.
For more details and to plan your visit ahead of the festival, please explore the map on page two or visit the website: cabaret.adelaidefestivalcentre.com.au/wine-dine
Photo: Claudio Raschella
Soak it in and be part of the future of cabaret
Your donation will support the next generation of performers and audiences to continue the cabaret legacy.
The City of Adelaide, Australia’s only UNESCO City of Music.
The perfect destination to visit before or after your Cabaret event.
Book for dinner at one of our world class restaurants or join us for a pre or post show beverage.
Every Lexus is the embodiment of amazing. But we believe that amazing should extend beyond the vehicle. Lexus Encore Platinum 1 gives you access to a suite of exclusive owner benefits that bring amazing to every area of your life. You can embark on a culinary adventure at a Dining Event. Experience an effortless shopping trip with Valet Parking 2 And borrow another Lexus, with Lexus On Demand 3 . Welcome to Encore Platinum, where life meets amazing.
Pedestrian and vehicle access is open around Adelaide Festival Centre. Drop off locations are located on King William Road and Festival Drive. For a map and access routes visit: adelaidefestivalcentre.com.au/your-visit
We recommend the Riverbank Car Park for convenient festival parking. Located under Adelaide Convention Centre, take the lift to “Promenade” for a flat walk to all venues. If you’re attending the Festival Theatre, Banquet Room, or Quartet Bar and walking or weather is a concern, the Festival Car Park is located right next to the Festival Theatre. Please be prepared for post-show congestion. There is no direct access from the Festival Car Park to the Dunstan Playhouse complex.
Accessible facilities include a wheelchair loan service, assistive hearing systems, accessible toilets and seat allocations, lifts, and stair-free drop off/pick up locations.
For more information visit: adelaidefestivalcentre.com.au/your-visit/ accessibility
When booking tickets, please inform the operator if you have specific access requirements.
Online: cabaret.adelaidefestivalcentre.com.au or ticketek.com.au
In person: Selected Ticketek outlets
By phone: Ticketek on 131 246
An on-site box office is open 90 minutes prior to ticketed start times of any performance.
For lost or stolen ticket enquiries please contact Ticketek on 131 246.
Pensioners, seniors, patrons experiencing unemployment, and full-time students may be entitled to concession prices.
Proof of entitlement may be requested at time of purchase or at the venue. Please make sure you carry your concession cards.
Under 30s tickets must be collected from the box office with photo ID. Note that capacity for Under 30s tickets is strictly limited.
Premium Packages tickets and associated drinks voucher/s must be collected from an Adelaide Festival Centre Box Office.
For more information on drink voucher/s included, please visit the website.
A one-off, non-refundable service and handling fee of $9.55 applies per transaction; this is regardless of the number or value of items purchased. For further information regarding fees, visit our website: adelaidefestivalcentre. com.au/your-visit/how-to-book
For other enquiries, contact: 08 8216 8600 or contact@adelaidefestivalcentre.com.au
Adelaide Festival Centre respects your privacy and meets government policy requirements. Ticket Pricing on pages is indicative only. Concessions may apply. Eligibility for concessions will vary across events. Artist lineup subject to change without notice.
Every effort has been made to ensure that performance, dates, times, prices, and other information are herein correct at time of publication. Refer to adelaidefestivalcentre.com. au for full, updated information and terms and conditions.
Adelaide Cabaret Festival Artistic Director
Virginia Gay
Executive Producer
Alex Sinclair
Programming
Tyrone White Senior Producer
Joel Allan Producer
Jenny Ainsworth Assistant Producer
Livia Abreu Programming Coordinator
Ali Jones Festival Design
Kathryn Sproul Special Events Design
Renee Gibson Education Officer
Marketing & Customer Experience
Meral Nieman Marketing Executive
Samantha Highcock Marketing Coordinator
Stephanie Rossetto Senior Publicity Coordinator
Emma Piscioneri Digital Marketing Coordinator
Gloria-Qing Deng Digital Content Officer
Joshua Osis Graphic Designer
Simon Rogers Visual Content Officer
Cathy Barrett Retail & Tours Executive
Peter Maddock Senior Ticketing Executive
Heather McGinn Ticketing Coordinator
Jessica Marsh Ticketing Coordinator
Natalie Patron Services
Schwarz-Hancock Coordinator
Tiana Sgarbossa Hospitality Executive
Katherine MacDonald Senior Event Sales Executive
Alex Scott Hospitality Coordinator
Marissa Vorrasi Hospitality Coordinator
Liam Goodwin Event Sales Coordinator
Ryan Willard Head Chef
Production
Françoise Piron Production Coordinator
Michael Roberts Production Coordinator
Robert O’Mahony Head of Staging
Jane Rossetto Head of Sound
Martin Howard Head of Lighting
Adelaide Cabaret Festival Founder
Frank Ford AM
Brochure Cover / TV Commercial Talent
Zenya Carmellotti
Seann Miley Moore
Winchester Angel
Adelaide Festival Centre Trustees
The Hon Hieu Van Le AC (Chair)
Jacqui McGill AO (Deputy Chair)
Michael Abbott AO KC
Katherine Tamiko Arguile
Bruce Carter AO
Penny Griggs
Councillor Phillip Martin
Maggie Zhou
Adelaide Festival Centre Management
Douglas Gautier AM CEO & Artistic Director
Steven Woolhouse Chief Operating & Financial Officer
Christie Anthoney Head of Public Affairs
Renato Capoccia Head of Marketing
Nathan Luscombe Head of Production & Technical
Heather Poole Head of Customer Experience
Alex Sinclair Head of Programming – Commercial
Susannah Sweeney Head of Programming – Public Purpose
Abbie Taylor Director of Philanthropy
Natalie Adam Manager, Ticketing
Francesca Belperio Manager Publicity & Content Creation
Bernadette Brennan Manager, WHS & Risk
David Cations Manager, ICT & Cybersecurity
Mark Cullen Manager, Facilities Services
Janine Eckert Manager, Corporate Partnerships
Claire George Manager, Human Resources
Julia George Manager, Digital & Social
Kate Hagan Manager, Patron Services
Jeff Owens Manager, Hospitality
Olivia Power Manager, Philanthropy
Abhishek Shaw Manager, Finance & Business Improvement
Angela Willington Manager, Legal & Contract Management
Adelaide Festival Centre Foundation Board
Miranda Starke (Chair)
Cain Cooke (Deputy Chair)
Ray Dahdah
Georgina Duckworth
Sheryn Foord
Jasmin Shahin
Evelyn Yap OAM
Lauren Zwanns
Legh Davis (Patron)
Joan Hardy OAM (Patron)
We thank all Adelaide Festival Centre staff, whose hard work makes this festival possible.
Adelaide Festival Centre is the heart of the arts in South Australia
Established in 1973 and located on Kaurna Yarta, Adelaide Festival Centre is Australia’s first capital city arts venue and hosts more than one million people annually. As well as presenting theatre, dance, music, and exhibitions, Adelaide Festival Centre creates diverse festivals to inspire, challenge, educate, and entertain.