Cabaret is entertainment performed close to an audience who are usually seated at tables, often with food and drink. Today, the word covers a wide range of shows, from a single singer with patter to a full variety bill.
What makes a show cabaret?
- Close to the audience: no big stage needed, and plenty of eye contact.
- Variety: songs, comedy, impressions and storytelling.
- Interaction: the performer talks to the audience, not just at them.
- Table seating: guests eat and drink while they watch.
Cabaret performers on our books
- Carrie Michaels has worked as a cabaret singer on cruise lines and in hotels.
- Craig Harper mixes vocals, impressions and up-to-date humour.
- Yzzy is a vocalist, compère and actor whose shows cover songs from the 1920s to today.
- Lisa Pearson brings musical theatre experience.
Putting on a cabaret night
- Choose a headliner and one supporting act.
- Set the room with tables facing the performance area.
- Dim the lights and use a spotlight if the venue has one.
- Serve food before the first act, and drinks throughout.
Cabaret at private parties
A cabaret-style evening suits milestone birthdays and anniversaries where guests want to sit, eat and enjoy a show rather than dance all night. Singing waiters are another take on the format.
Quick answers
Is cabaret the same as burlesque?
No. Burlesque is one style that can appear in cabaret, but most cabaret is songs and comedy.
How long is a cabaret set?
Often 45 to 60 minutes, split into two halves.
Next steps
Ask about a cabaret night for your venue.
Ready to find your act?
Flair Entertainments has been booking entertainers for clients across the UK since 1984. Send us your date, venue and the kind of night you want and we’ll come back with acts that suit.
