Before you begin studying the art of cabaret and considering how it can be performed in your home, we thought it best to first define what exactly ‘cabaret” is. According to the Webster’s, cabaret is music that is performed in a place that serves drinks. It is essentially this act of serving drinks that makes cabaret differ from a concert or theater experience. Webster’s definition, however, doesn’t provide much in the way of understanding cabaret as an art form. So, let’s dig a little deeper.

Cabaret is more than a simply a recital of good music.

Cabaret sets should be interesting, varied, and most of all … entertaining.

Cabaret should have the basic elements of theater – a beginning, a middle, and an end.  Cabaret should also be visually interesting.

A cabaret performer is a storyteller with the audience hanging on every word.

Cabaret is an honest representation of the performer.

Cabaret allows you to share your unique spin on life with others. It is an art form that enables you to express who you are and what you feel.

A cabaret performer should have a person connection to the material.

Cabaret engages the audience.

It is direct, look-me-in-the-eye performing - up close and personal.

It differs from other onstage disciplines, in that the “fourth wall” between artist and audience is erased.

You are inviting the audience into your world.

Cabaret is … anything you want it to be!

Traditionally, ‘cabaret’ has been defined as a singer and a piano doing the Great American Songbook, but these days the definition has expanded.

It can be show tunes, jazz, pop, country or rock.