Theater arts department set to light stage with “Cabaret”

By Princess Russell |Staff Writer|

CSUSB’s Theatre Arts Department is set to present their adaptation of the world-famous Broadway musical “Cabaret” this June.

The transcendental production of the critically acclaimed musical is about the lives of an array of characters within the overtly sexual taboo Kit Kat Club.

The Broadway production “Cabaret” is the Tony Award-winner for Best Musical and Best Revival of a Musical. “Cabaret” details the story of the seedy Kit Kat Club and its denizens as they live their lives under the growing influence of the Nazi Party during the final gasps of the Weimar Republic.

Productions of “Cabaret” have been entertaining and historical; however, “Cabaret” does contain sensitive adult themes and content most suitable for mature audiences, according to cast member Michael Rodriguez.

Topics ranging from prejudice to self-image allows audiences to think and reflect on today’s society.

Michael Rodriguez is the assistant choreographer of the “Cabaret” production and also plays the role of Bobby, one of the Kit Kat boys. “I get to be in the show and I get to be part of the creation,” said Rodriguez.

The process of getting into character for all the dynamic roles within “Cabaret” is different for every cast member. Karli Royer plays one of the Kit Kat girls, Marlene, and describes the show with an in-your-face approach.

Royer gets into character by finding a connection to her character. “I love how much of a spit-fire she is,” said Royer. She mentioned that being in such a comfortable, professional environment makes getting into character and playing the role much easier. There will be endless plot twists throughout “Cabaret.”

“The show will surprise the audience multiple times,” said Royer. “Don’t get complacent because the story line changes quicker than you can imagine.”

CSUSB “Cabaret” director Tom Provenzano has a unique vision for the show that is sure to entertain audiences as explained Royer.

Provenzano’s favorite character of the original production is the leading role of the Emcee, played by Eric Barnard. The show becomes a production within a production with several individual stories being told.

Many of the scenes and musical numbers of “Cabaret” involve characters stepping outside of the scene and, as Provenzano creatively announced, “demolishing the fourth wall” between the audience and performers.

The CSUSB production of “Cabaret” will be an authentic version that will incorporate all of the original musical numbers. With a cast of around 30 actors, there will be a mixture of singing and dancing from the Theatre Arts Department that should make for a big and exciting show.

“Cabaret” opens June 1 and runs through June 10 in the Performing Arts Center. Tickets will range from $6-15. VIP seating on stage, which will give the illusion of being a part of the Kit Kat Club, is also available.