Detroit Public Theatre presents its third annual Holiday Cabaret, with evening and matinee performances through Dec. 21.
If you are weary of Scrooge and the Grinch makes you wince, Detroit Public Theatre’s Holiday Cabaret is a hilarious alternative to traditional seasonal shows. Theatergoers of all denominations will enjoy the sassy, often-irreverent take on the holidays presented by five supremely talented performers. Now in its third year, this no-holds-barred production features a diverse selection of songs ranging from bawdy numbers to beautiful ballads, with a few holiday classics thrown in for good measure.
Nothing is off limits in this show, including a song titled “Let’s Cozy Up (Put Your Hands in My Muff)” that is actually more pristine than it sounds. Challenges such as seasonal stress, gift-giving and difficult family members are tackled in “The 12 Fights of Christmas,” “8 Nights with You” and other numbers that elicited nonstop laughter from the opening night audience.
Left to right: X. Alexander Durden, Mariah Colby, Bryana Hall, Lulu Fall and Eric Gutman in the 3rd annual Holiday Cabaret at Detroit Public Theatre
“There is nothing traditional about Detroit Public Theatre and that includes our Holiday Cabaret,” said returning cast member Eric Gutman, who also serves as musical director and vocal arranger. “We’re a diverse cast and we serve a wide crowd.”
The show is directed by Courtney Burkett, the theater’s co-founder and co-producing Artistic Director and choreographed by Carollette Phillips. Veteran performers Gutman and Bryana Hall are joined by newcomers Mariah Colby, X. Alexander Durden and Lulu Fall. Piano accompaniment is provided by the talented Betty-Alexandria Pride.
The diverse score requires versatile actors, and these performers check all the boxes with their impressive vocals, proficient dance moves and physical comedy skills. They transition seamlessly between songs, switching locations, costumes and personas with remarkable dexterity.
In addition to traditional theater seating, several cabaret-style tables are available on a first-come basis.
“It’s great to see people from all walks of life and get everyone in the holiday spirit in the weirdest and most wonderful way possible,” said Gutman.
The Holiday Cabaret runs through Sunday, Dec. 21 at Detroit Public Theatre, 3960 Third Avenue (between Selden and Alexandrine), with evening and matinee performances. For tickets, pre-paid parking or more information, visit www.detroitpublictheatre.org or call (313) 974-7918.
NOTE: The theater will hold its first “relaxed performance” on Saturday, Dec. 13 at 3 p.m. Sponsored by the Gilbert Family Foundation, individuals with autism, ADHD, dementia or other sensory or behavioral issues can enjoy the show in a welcoming, non-judgmental environment. Lighting and sound will be adjusted to support audience needs, fidgets will be available and patrons will be free to come and go throughout the performance.