Visionary performer and “queen of punk cabaret” Bernie Dieter brings her smash hit Club Kabarett to the Garden, and it’s a lush, pitch-perfect production with stunning visuals that demand you pay attention! Under Dieter’s spell, the Aurora Spiegeltent is transformed into a world of dark, provocative beauty, dripping with avant-garde chic. Like a pre-East Berlin Wall nightclub, this show is the essence of cabaret, distilled and refined. 

Dieter is every part the consummate host, a wickedly alluring figure equipped with an alluring husky voice and multiple glittery ensembles. Her crowd of "weirdos" and "freaks" wave their flags in solidarity as she prowls the stage and coos to her fans. She breathes gravitas in every syllable, commands your eyes with every flicker of her devilish smile. Accompanying the line-up is Bernie's three-piece band, whose electrifying punk rock vibrations complement her exemplary voice as she covers Nick Cave and Miriam Bryant with raw, unflinching power. Beneath the unapologetically defiant and provocative exterior is a fearless and compassionate advocate for connection and courage. Be it your laughter, your awe or your tears, Dieter is here for it all. 

Between the rousing punk rock musical sets is a smorgasbord of captivating carnival acts and outrageous stunts that leave the audience gasping for breath. Dieter has curated a collection of incredible artists who champion her punk vision. Any of them would be a draw card in a major production, and every performer brings a determination and prowess that defies labels and expectations. There’s Jarred Dewey, impossibly controlled and captivating in his duo trapeze and flying pole acts, with a rawness to his strengthy combos that blend seamlessly with Dieter’s singing. Soliana’s breath-taking bodily contortions literally had people shrieking at her supernatural flexibility. Caleb Cameron treats us to his incredible footwork across multiple dance numbers and single-handedly elevates tap to new heights of potential and entertainment. Burlesque performer extraordinaire Jaqueline Furey is a fearless bombshell with a penchant for eating fire, swords, and her audience’s hearts. Walking R18 rating Iva Rosebud gets the biggest reaction of the night with two verrrry risqué drag solos that push the boundaries of hedonistic performance art in new directions (it’s not every night you get to see someone de-flower a cream cake).

Perhaps it is too early to call it, but this Club Kabarett is a serious contender for the best show of the Fringe. It’s an exceptionally crafted piece of gender-bending adult entertainment, a seductive and darkly humorous experience that sits with you long after the applause stops. Be sure to add this audacious and sexy show to your must-see list!

***** Five Stars