The ETSU Theater and Dance Department welcomes attendees into the captivating world of “Cabaret,” where dazzling escapism masks the unsettling realities of a society on the brink.
With its intricate storytelling, powerful performances and striking visual design “Cabaret” at ETSU is not just a showcase of theatrical talent but a moving reflection on themes that still resonate deeply in today’s world.
With its relevance still deeply felt today, the selection of “Cabaret” for this year’s performance calendar was no coincidence.
“We saw that the themes in ‘Cabaret‘ were relevant to our times,” said Karen Brewster, chair of the ETSU Department of Theater and Dance. “This play warns against letting our differences drive wedges between us, a message that feels increasingly urgent.”
While the decision to bring the Kit Kat Club, the setting of “Cabaret,” to Johnson City may have been easy, truly bringing it to life presented a few challenges, such as navigating its mature themes and balancing the very contrasting worlds contained within pages of the script.
The duality found between the Club’s dazzling, provocative atmosphere and the very grounded, realistic settings of the narrative’s other scenes required the department to take more innovative approaches to set design, direction and performance.
As a result, faculty and students underwent specialized training to ensure a safe, respectful environment which reflects ETSU’s dedication to the educational and personal well-being of its students.
While staying true to the essence of “Cabaret,” the production made thoughtful adjustments to suit its educational context.
This careful balance highlights the unique nature of university theater, where education and creativity intersect to produce works that are both meaningful and accessible.
The cast and crew, composed of many passionate and talented students and faculty, truly embraced each of these challenges with enthusiasm and open arms.
From learning the most complex choreography in the university’s history, to creating costumes that strike a balance between the boldness expected in professional productions and the sensitivities found in an educational setting, the cast has truly created something special.
“They are such a collaborative, committed group backstage, on stage, always enthusiastic, committed, talented, collaborative, just positive,” said Brewster. “It’s been a lot of work, but it’s all coming from a place of love with everybody involved.”
The production not only showcases the talents of ETSU’s students but also serves as a powerful reminder of theater’s ability to address important societal issues with nuance and depth.
By blending artistry with thoughtful reflection on contemporary issues, the production invites audiences to step into the Kit Kat Club and explore its complex, often unsettling world.
At its core, “Cabaret” is a cautionary tale about the consequences of indifference and division.
As one key line in the play states, “People are people.”
“Cabaret” will run in the Bert C. Bach Theater from November 20 to 23 at 7:30 p.m. and for one final show on November 24 at 2 p.m.
For more information, please visit etsu.edu/cas/theatre/upcoming-production.
