Halloween cabaret set to spook and surprise

THINGS are set to get a little spooky in Mullumbimby this Friday night, when the Drill Hall Theatre hosts a one-night-only Halloween Cabaret.

Featuring drag, dance, circus and music, the adults-only event is the brainchild of Hidden in the Hinterland — a creative collective founded by three friends, Jake Dix, Tia Nelson and Bobbie Field. United by a shared passion for the arts, the trio formed the group to spotlight local performers and provide paid opportunities in a dedicated performance space. The team previously staged a sold-out Christmas Cabaret last year.

This time, they’ve joined forces with local artist Dane Bodley, who has designed a series of thrilling set pieces and staging elements to transform the theatre into a world of Halloween magic.

“We wanted Halloween on a weekend, and this year it’s on a Friday — perfect for a night of mischief!” Field said.

“Halloween is the perfect time to play with characters, stories and worlds that don’t exist any other time of year. It gives us the freedom to be bold, inventive and a little bit spooky.”

Field said the group first met while working on a theatre production of RENT in 2020 and instantly bonded over their love of theatre and storytelling.

“We wanted to create special events that celebrate local talent in ways beyond a traditional theatre show — cabarets are perfect for that,” he said.

“The three of us have worked on lots of productions together, and it’s such a joy to create and collaborate with friends. We’ve got plenty of ideas for future shows and even hosted a poetry night at OTHERWORLD earlier this year.”

Dix and Nelson usually take to the stage, with Dix also handling lighting and sound design and Nelson directing, while Field acts as producer.

The team is encouraging audience members to embrace the Halloween spirit and come dressed in their spookiest costumes.

“We’re theatre folk at heart, and it seems everyone in the Northern Rivers loves a good dress-up party,” Field said. “That said, it’s completely up to the audience whether they want to join in or not — either way, our goal is for everyone to have a fun night.”

Guests can pre-order tacos and purchase drinks from the licensed bar.

Halloween Cabaret is at The Drill Hall Theatre in Mullumbimby on Friday October 31 at 7.30pm.

For more information and tickets, visit www.trybooking.com/DFNZH