Life is a cabaret, old chum — and the brand new Seattle International Cabaret Festival is a celebration of that flamboyant, democratic, physical, musical, spectacular artform and the culture that surrounds it.
Taking place at various venues throughout downtown Seattle from November 6 - 15, SICF pays homage to the genre’s storied roots but focuses on contemporary performances by artists from around the globe.
“We hope that the festival will define for the public what the look and sound of cabaret has evolved into and why it continues to be relevant to the art and entertainment world,” says producer Chris Snell.
Snell, whose Can Can Presents production company has been recognized by such media heavy hitters as the Wall Street Journal and the BBC for its creation, development and management of unconventional music and physical performance acts, is a staunch supporter of the re-energized genre.
“Cabaret is a necessary support to the arts because it has always been a style and venue that encourages freedom of expression and therefore it’s a sanctuary for artists — particularly those who are unestablished or without privilege,” he continues. “We hope that broadening an awareness of cabaret will further open the space available for artists to express themselves, as well as provide opportunity for art from many different walks to be appreciated.
SCIF will open Friday, November 6 with a performance by British “Brechtian punk cabaret” outfit Tiger Lillies with physical, musical and visual performances as well as DJ dance parties continuing through Sunday, November 15.
Confirmed performers include the Can Can’s Castaways, Ultra, Waxie Moon, Queen Schmooquan, The Bad Things, the World Premier of "The Breaking" Cabaret Opera, Vagabond Opera (Portland), Kitten On The Keys (San Francisco) and Peculiar Pretzelman (Los Angeles). DJs include KEXP’s Derek Mazzone, Emerald City Soul Club, I Love Shiva and Switzerland’s Gypsy Sound System. A full listing of confirmed acts will be confirmed shortly.
SICF is presented in association with The Moore Theater, The Showbox, The Triple Door, ACT Theater, Pensione Nichols and Can Can. Sponsors Seattle Theatre Group.