Our November talk

What is cabaret?

This month, Canadian actor, singer and voiceover artist Debbie Bridge gave us the fascinating and entertaining story of cabaret, from its origins to today.

Debbie took us through the difference between cabaret and music hall, its experimental performance, the mixture of art forms involved, how the small venues were often run by women and how different the styles of cabaret were in Europe and in the speakeasies of the States.

We heard how cabaret became an escape from hard times and a place where people could be themselves.

We saw how the art of posters tells us about how cabaret was presented and about the attitudes of the day.

Laughs were had with Debbie’s wry version of Memories and we heard her operatic voice, in Italian.

We learned how cabaret faded as TV and rock ‘n’ roll grew – then about how it was growing again until the challenges of lockdown.

Looking at modern London, Debbie gave us the inside story on where cabaret still thrives, and the value now of shows in small venues. 

In an evening with chat and questions throughout, we rounded the talk off with a lively Q&A.

A huge thanks to Debbie for an enjoyable talk – and particularly for stepping in with such style at the last minute.

Find out more about Debbie’s work, talks and workshops here.

Monthly Coffee Morning - Friday 25th November 10.30am, Queen Mary Café

81 Mile End Road. E1 4UJ. Part of Queen Mary, University of London, they also welcome all comers. Bus routes 25 and 205, nearest tube Stepney Green on the District line.