Saint Louis University’s University Theatre will continue its 2010-2011 season with “Cabaret,” a musical based on Christopher Isherwood’s book “Goodbye to Berlin.”

“The true background of the story ‘Cabaret,’ is about the Nazi Party’s rise to power before World War II, but the personal story in the musical is that of an American author who comes to Berlin in search of inspiration only to leave in desperation,” cast member Joey Sminchak said.

“Cabaret” first opened on Broadway in 1966 at the Boardhurst Theatre in New York. Since then, the musical has won 12 Tony Awards in categories ranging from Best Musical to Best Costume Design.

“I’m really excited to see ‘Cabaret’ because I love musicals, and some of my friends are going to be performing in it,” freshman Shannon Boyle said.
Gary Barker, who is a professor at SLU, will direct the University Theatre’s version of the musical.

“I love Gary because he will not tell you what you want to hear. Gary isn’t afraid of telling us something is horrible. I like that about a director because I feel like it helps us improve our acting,” Sminchak said.

“Cabaret” has a different vibe than musicals previously put on by the University Theatre.

“Gary Barker wanted to do a darker musical in contrast to ‘Anything Goes’ and other musicals we have done in the past,” Jessica Canfield said.

“Cabaret” features songs such as “Willkommen,” “Don’t Tell Momma” and “Cabaret.”

“The music and attitude in ‘Cabaret’ is awesome. Everything is very in-your-face and raunchy. It’s a great show,” freshman cast member Alex Bolano said.

Bolano explained that her favorite song is “The Money Song” because it embodies the message of the show.
With 20-plus actors and actresses working to make “Cabaret” a success, it is bound to get stressful, but Canfield is always looking on the bright side.

“It’s really exciting to experience the show from beginning to end. It’s fun to see the show come together. Starting from a rehearsal room to tech week, when lights and sound is added, is really neat to see,” Canfield said.

Sophomore and stage manager, Canfield explained that the time commitment is the most difficult part of being a part of “Cabaret.”

“My least favorite part is long rehearsal hours, but it’s also a part of any show; you’ve got to work to make it great,” Sminchak said.

Tickets are available at the University Theatre’s box office located in Xavier Hall. Tickets range from $7 for students to $10 for adult general admission. “Cabaret” will be showing Nov. 12, 13, 19 and 20 starting at 8 p.m., and Nov. 21 starting at 2 p.m.

“Cabaret” brings darker vibe than past University Theatre musicals“Whether you’re looking for something to do with your friends, or something to do for a date on a Saturday night, ‘Cabaret’ will fit your needs,” Sminchak said.