Key Takeaways
- The Rock River Players (RRP) will present a No Kings Cabaret on January 23, 24, and 25 at the Williamsville Hall.
- The cabaret will feature a variety of performance styles, including songs, satire, and improvisation, with a focus on adult-themed content and subversion.
- The event will include performances by a range of local artists, as well as special guest Rev. Yolanda, a trans femme gender queer singer/songwriter and performance artist.
- Admission is $15 per person, and seating will be at café tables, cabaret style, with baked goods available by donation and attendees invited to bring their own beverages.
Introduction to the Cabaret
The Rock River Players (RRP) are set to present a unique and exciting event, the No Kings Cabaret, on January 23, 24, and 25 at the Williamsville Hall. This annual cabaret promises to deliver a night of entertainment, laughter, and thought-provoking performances, all in the spirit of the traditional cabaret format. With roots in 19th and 20th-century France and Germany, the cabaret has historically been a platform for creative expression and subversion, and the RRP’s production is no exception.
The Concept and Inspiration
According to producer Annie Landenberger, the cabaret has a long history of pushing boundaries and challenging social norms, making it the perfect vehicle for the No Kings movement’s satirical and poignant commentary. Landenberger notes that the cabaret has always been a hotbed of creative energy, offering a unique perspective on the world and challenging audiences to think differently. This year’s production will feature a range of scenes, songs, satire, and surprises, all designed to provoke, entertain, and inspire.
The Performers and Performances
The No Kings Cabaret will feature a talented ensemble of local performers, including Kay Beckett, Jonathan Benney, Tino Benson, and many others. The program will include a range of acts, from songs by renowned composers like Tom Lehrer, Phil Ochs, and Lin-Manuel Miranda, to improvisation, original satire, and excerpts from classic works like Monty Python and Sinclair Lewis’ novel "It Can’t Happen Here." Special guest Rev. Yolanda will perform a powerful song about self-love and acceptance, titled "I Pledge Allegiance to Myself."
Logistics and Attendance
The cabaret will take place at the Williamsville Hall, with performances on Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m. Admission is $15 per person, and seating will be at café tables, cabaret style, to create an intimate and immersive experience. Attendees are invited to bring their own beverages and enjoy the various home-baked goods available by donation. Reservations can be made through the RRP website, and attendees are encouraged to arrive early to secure their seats and settle in for a unique and unforgettable evening of entertainment.
Conclusion and Expectations
The No Kings Cabaret promises to be a highlight of the local cultural scene, offering a unique blend of music, comedy, satire, and performance art. With its talented cast, thought-provoking themes, and intimate setting, this event is not to be missed. Whether you’re a fan of cabaret, satire, or simply great entertainment, the RRP’s production is sure to deliver a night to remember. So mark your calendars, reserve your seats, and get ready to experience the power and creativity of the No Kings Cabaret.
