By Lauren Jurgemeyer
Under the direction of Tom Delbello, Texas State is set to open Cabaret on Nov. 13 which runs through Nov. 18 in the Patti Strickel Harrison Theatre; the show is impressively interactive and an invigorating experience for all audience members.
I was given the privilege to attend a few rehearsals during the creative process and was floored by the level of professionalism and talent that exists in this show. Cabaret is set in the 1930s Berlin during the rise of the Nazi party. An American writer comes to Germany in search of something to write about; he is instantly enthralled in the sensual and heart-wrenching world of the Kit-Kat Klub.
Logan Rae’s portrayal of Sally Bowles is breathtaking; her characterization of Bowles’ narcissist tendencies, undeniable mood swings and overwhelming need to be loved brings the exuberant character to life. Her chemistry with John Fredrickson, who plays her counterpart Cliff Bradshaw, is so authentic that it plays with the audience’s heartstrings.
Grayson Samuels (who plays Herr Schultz) is so endearing on stage. The audiences’ hearts are warmed by the genuine and lovely romance that transpires between him and Fraulein Schneider (Anna Rose Daugherty). Samuels even said, “It is so easy to fall in love with [Daugherty] every night.”
Overall, the entire cast is so extremely talented–not just as actors, but as singers and dancers. The technical aspects of the show are just as impressive as the on-stage talent. The scenic design, by Gary Thornsberry, plays wonderfully into a startling reveal at the end of the show. The costume design, by Alexander Stearns, is able to capture all the different facets of the characters.
To me, the lighting design by Miriah D. Borden is beautiful. Progressively through the show, particularly in the second act, I noticed a darkness falling on the stage–which later assisted the stark contrast of lighting during the final scene.
The production of Cabaret addresses sensitive issues, which teaches emotional complexity and leaves a lasting impression with the audience.
“It is important to live with compassion and understanding and I think this show can reveal what happens when we don’t,” Rae said.
This run of Cabaret is sold out, but that does not mean that tickets may not become available. For updates regarding seating follow @txstcabaret on Instagram and @txstmt on Facebook. The box office also opens an hour prior to the show–this would allow you to be put on the standby list, but it does not guarantee you a ticket.
Photos by Lauren Jurgemeyer. Video by Raven Correa and Lauren Jurgemeyer.