A call for cabaret artists

EXPRESSIONS of interest have now opened for the 2025 Ballarat Cabaret Festival program.

This year’s event will take place on 1 to 4 May at the Ballarat Mining Exchange, in partnership with the City of Ballarat.

The festival was revived in 2021 by award-winning cabaret artist and Ballarat Arts Academy graduate, Issie Hart.

“Since the festival’s return, we have presented a broad range of cabaret events including online salons throughout the lockdowns, family-friendly cabaret days and our classic cabaret festivals,” said Hart.

“Visitors to this year’s event will be transported into yesteryear in the transformed cabaret space featuring the iconic, billowing curtain backdrop and a moody speakeasy bar.

“They can also be immortalised as works of art by interacting with the Living Portrait Theatre appearing in the foyer.

“Artists are invited to showcase their own production in this space, with capacity to host all ages to adult shows in the daytime or at night.

“Registration fee is a modest $300 and includes use of the venue, technician, venue staff, tech time, inclusion on the festival program and marketing assistance.”

A proudly inclusive event, the Ballarat Cabaret Festival is especially keen to work with local artists, Indigenous artists, LGBTQIA+ artists, culturally diverse artists and artists with disabilities.

“Types of productions include cabaret, circus, comedy and theatre – if you’d take it to a Fringe, you can take it to Ballarat Cab Fest,” said Hart.

“Applications will be considered on a first-come basis, with limited space available. All submissions must be received by Tuesday, 15 April 2025.”

The festival will also host the 2025 Gala Show on 2 to 3 May (tickets on sale now), and facilitate an Open Mic Cabaret Bar during the program.”

For more information, visit ballaratcabaretfestival.com.