Fest full of glee and surprise

THE Ballarat Cabaret Festival is back, and there’s a range of live performances set for the Mechanics’ Institute next month.

For a second year, cabaret artist and opera singer Issie Hart is leading the independent festival, which in 2022 will be held face-to-face over Friday, 18 and Saturday, 19 November.

“We’re delighted that this year we can bring our festival back and run it in person,” she said.

“We have some amazing things programmed, and there’s set to be something for everyone.

“Our main stage events will showcase beautiful international quality performers at top of their game, many of them being local artists returning home to Ballarat, and many that are currently based here.”

The first show of the festival will put the spotlight on emerging young talent, and a family-friendly glee club show is set to bring all-ages community members together to enjoy a sing along.

“We’ve all really missed singing through the pandemic, so that will be fantastic,” Hart said. “Ballarat Glee Club is going to run throughout the year, but we’re excited to host the first one.”

An inclusive brunch for LGBTQIA+ community will be held on the Saturday morning from 11am to 1pm.

At the Festival Club, Hart is hosting a Late Night Variety Show, and there will be secret surprise performances across the weekend.

“Be there in time for us to ring the bell, and we’ll take audiences on a little adventure,” she said.

After two pandemic-impacted years for the arts industry, Hart said she really wants to call the community to action.

“We understand people are still hesitant to make plans due to COVID, but the arts and events have suffered so much, so we are asking people to please show their love and support by booking tickets early,” she said.

Visit ballaratcabaretfestival.com for tickets and more information.