REVIEW: Before Tomorrow - A Cabaret

Before Tomorrow – A Cabaret was a delightful way to spend an evening. Seated around small tables in a room lit by candlelight, the audience basked in every moment of the high energy show.

The Sydney University Musical Theatre Ensemble (MUSE) continue to impress with their ability to churn out stunning voices and enthusiastic performers. For many of the cast, it was their first time partaking in the USyd performing arts scene; and the Cabaret allowed for the perfect opportunity to be heard. Gasps and yelps filled the room with every jazz hand, high note, and unveiling of gold spanks.  

The Seymour Centre’s Sound Lounge was just the right setting for the production. In the light, there was RSL-esque carpet and exposed chords and cables. But in the spotlight, there was a warm ambiance, a sense of closeness, and the feeling that nothing separated the audience from the performers. Other than, of course, that they were focused on their incredible voices, and I was focused on finding out if the bar accepted ACCESS.

Creative Directors Jerome Studdy and Lauren McNamara did an excellent job of pulling together tight numbers in a difficult setting. In true cabaret style, the performers weaved their way through tables and chairs, interacting with the delighted audience. A myriad of Sub-Directors can be credited for the charming choreography and character that went into each song. A little bit of lust, a pinch of the magical, and a whole dollop of heartbreak: this was the recipe for the numbers of the night. Oh and just a touch of tap. Because, quite frankly, if we all did a bit more tappin’, the world would be a happier place.

The tying in of the theme did feel like a bit of a stretch, as it always will in a cabaret. Lesser known numbers seemed to take priority over musical theatre classics, simply because they aligned better with the day-to-night premise. But as much as it is fun to sing along, it was nice to be introduced to these songs by a young and passionate cast. A lack of ‘Good Morning Baltimore’ was redeemed by a delightful abundance of many other crowd pleasers.

Those who got solos executed them with passion and incredible story-telling abilities. But there were some who had smaller parts that could have nailed their own number as well. With so much talent all round, it would certainly have been tough picking.
If you were after a million dollar budget and infallible execution, you probably should have gone to see Kinky Boots (and apparently not The Body Guard). But MUSE Presents : Before Tomorrow – A Cabaret managed to fill a small room with huge talent. And yes, the bar does accept ACCESS.