At present the only major venue in Melbourne offering regular cabaret fare is Capers in Hawthorn. To their credit, the new owners lead by David Cameron have re-configured the space to the advantage of both the performers and the audience. Spruced up with a new interior design it’s a great place to spend an evening (better air conditioning for 30 � days would be good).
A tradition started at Capers supported by the previous owners has continued with the new owners. Melissa Langton, Susan-Ann Walker and Mark Jones are three of Australia’s top cabaret and musical theatre performers. In a highly competitive business, these three performers have chosen to share their knowledge and expertise with new young hopefuls wanting to enter the world of cabaret style entertainment. Through their company Big Hair Productions they have created �THE CAPERS SHOWCASE� where Monday nights are given over to new talent. Before appearing on stage, performers attend workshops with Langton, Walker and Jones, learning how to put together a cabaret act. Style and content is discussed and developed. Repertoire is rehearsed and dialogue is planned before presenting a 20 -30 minute performance in the professional surrounds of Capers.
Monday night November 29 th saw the first Grand Final of The Capers Showcase. The four finalists were David Bramble, Charmaine Gorman, Jacqui Hoy and Julie Lambourn. Judges for the event were Marina Prior and Anne Wood. Playing to a capacity crowd the judging was not made easy due to four well-prepared acts. And the winner(s) on this occasion was a draw with Julie Lambourn and Jacqui Hoy taking home the prize of an engagement at Capers in 2005. Making each performer lookand sound good was the very able piano playing of Mark Jones and Amanda Hodder.
Be sure to look out for The Capers Showcase in 2005.
Capers is located on the corner of Power Street and Burwood Road, Hawthorn.
Bookings: (03) 9819-1797
Interested in doing a Capers Showcase? For information:
E-mail: info@musicalsaustralia.com