HIGH POINT, N.C., Nov. 2, 2017 – Get ready to take a step back in time to 1930s Berlin, as the musical “Cabaret” explores a crumbling Germany that is easily seduced by entertainment and tempted to look the other way as the world falls apart. High Point University Theatre will present the award-winning musical at 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 16-18 and at 2 p.m. on Nov. 19 in the Pauline Theatre of the Hayworth Fine Arts Center.
A limited number of complimentary tickets are available for the general public by visiting www.highpoint.edu/theatre or contacting the HPU Campus Concierge at 336-841-4636.
Directed by Jay Putnam, associate professor of performance, and choreographed by Lindsey Howie, instructor of dance, the musical features seniors Jordan Dallam as the “Emcee,” Matthew Hollis as “Cliff,” and Ceili Lang as “Frau Schneider.” The production also features juniors Abigail Hackenberg as “Sally Bowles” and Alec Yamartino as “Herr Schultz.”
Masteroff, Kander and Ebb’s Tony-winning musical is a story about following your heart while the world loses its way. It follows young writer Cliff Bradshaw as he searches for inspiration. He wanders into the decadent Kit Kat Club, a seedy nightclub overseen by Emcee, featuring Sally Bowles, a vivacious, talented cabaret performer. Sally and Cliff begin a relationship, which blossoms unexpectedly into a dream-like romance. As time passes, however, the situation in Berlin changes from exciting to violent.
“‘Cabaret’ was groundbreaking in the original production and has remained extremely timely ever since,” says Putnam. “We watch Emcee take us into a world where we can leave our troubles outside. Then we watch the consequences of that decision. In a way, ‘Cabaret’ points the finger at the audience. The play reminds us to pay attention and to stand up for what we believe in.”
Due to the mature content, the production is recommended for audiences 17 years and older.
“Cabaret” is the second in a series of exciting productions included in the 2017-18 season lineup. This fall, the Department of Theatre and Dance performed “Seascape,” and a Fall Dance Concert. HPU’s theatre program is recognized nationally and produces alumni who are active professionals in the business. HPU was named the No. 1 “underrated” theatre college in the Mid-Atlantic Region and one of the Top 10 B.A. Theatre Programs for 2016-17 by OnStage.