Madison Reporter

Madison College Performing Arts is set to present the Tony Award-winning musical "Cabaret" at the Mitby Theater on the Truax Campus from March 7 to March 15. The production, directed by Meghan Randolph, coincides with a Broadway run starring Grammy nominee Adam Lambert. Set against the backdrop of Nazi Germany's rise in 1920s Berlin, "Cabaret" remains relevant today.

The musical delves into the lives of Berlin's natives and expatriates as they seek refuge in the Kit Kat Club amid Germany's political upheaval. The narrative follows Cliff, an American writer, who becomes enamored with English singer Sally Bowles, all under the watchful eye of a provocative club emcee.

The original "Cabaret" was adapted into a notable 1972 film featuring Liza Minnelli and Joel Grey. A new Broadway version debuted in 1998 with Alan Cumming as the Emcee. Known for its memorable songs like “Wilkommen,” “Maybe This Time,” and “Money,” "Cabaret" continues to captivate audiences.

Lisa Erdman serves as vocal director for this Madison College performance, while alumnus Brandon Reda leads a nine-piece orchestra as music director. Student performers Kai DeRubis and Sarah Trejo Nava will take on key roles as Emcee and Sally Bowles respectively.

Erdman comments on Kander and Ebb’s music: “Kander and Ebb’s music work with surgical precision to make you laugh with joy until you realize you’re crying in sadness.” She adds that despite its debut in 1966, it still captivates audiences due to its catchy tunes.

Choreography is led by Kristin Roling, assisted by Emma Bartholomew. The cast includes students, alumni, and community members filling various roles including stage management and lighting design.

Performances are scheduled for Fridays (March 7 and 14) at 7:30 p.m., Saturday (March 8) at 7:30 p.m., Sunday (March 9) at 2 p.m., Thursday (March 13) at 7:30 p.m., and Saturday (March 15) at 2 p.m. Tickets are priced at $20 for general admission and $13 for seniors over 62 or those under 17. Madison College students can attend free with their OneCard.

Tickets can be reserved through madisoncollege.edu/student-experience/performing-arts. Note that performance content includes references to drugs, alcohol, and sexual themes.