Be Glad We're Not There, Old Chum

Larkspur Café Theatre’s new show takes place in a skewed world whose inhabitants lie, smuggle, prostitute themselves, but still celebrate the New Year. And if some friends are becoming Nazis, well, that’s just politics. As Fraulein Schneider says, “So vot?” We settle. We adapt. We cast off what (or who) we don’t need. For relief, there’s always the cabaret.

Jointly produced by Independent Cabaret Productions and Shakespeare at Stinson, “Cabaret,” the 1966 hit musical, has been revived at historic American Legion Hall in Larkspur. It’s a big show with six dancers, six actors and a four-piece band; all are experienced close up in the Café Theatre’s small space, now transformed into a 1931 Berlin nightclub. The theatrical experience is intense.

The show’s emcee, a part originated by Joel Grey, is a key player and a mysterious figure. Is he a clown? A Greek chorus? A conscience? The emcee is played by Jeremy Vik, who wisely chose not to emulate Grey. Vik’s performance is entirely his own, but every bit as menacing.

One of his club’s entertainers, Sally Bowles (Corinne Proctor,) sees herself as a star and has extravagant plans to make it big in this seedy environment. Nothing, not even the prospect of going to America with Cliff to make a new life, disturbs her fantasy.

Cliff, an American writer (played by Ivan Hardin,) has come to Berlin to explore its underside. The character of Cliff is based on the experiences and diaries of British/American author Christopher Isherwood, who went to explore the sexual possibilities there and fell in love with a German named Heinz, who was later imprisoned. “Cabaret’s” Cliff is also exploring attractions to men.

Ellen Brooks as Fraulein Schneider brings a professional voice to her character and a visual contrast to others onstage. Schneider seems normal, approachable, though she will turn out to be flawed. Her lovely duet with Malcolm Rodgers’ Schultz, “Married,” imagines a union of two old friends, a hope the audience knows is doomed when the foreboding emcee appears in the wings.

Diego Emir Garcia directs the band and proves that John Kander’s music and Fred Ebb’s lyrics are still compelling. Audiences leave “Cabaret” humming “Willkommen,” “Money” and the title song, whose heavy beat degenerates into a goose-stepping march near the end.

It’s a well-crafted production, but hard-edged, even raunchy at times. Though an intimate view of history, it’s probably not for youngsters.

Cera Byer choreographed the dance numbers. Ms. Byer makes good use of the small space, but arrangements and gestures become repetitious at times. Tammy Berlin’s costumes reflect the ‘30s and the decadent mood of the city. Rose Ann Raphael designed the set and its glittering curtain.

“Cabaret” will be at the Larkspur Café Theatre, 500 Magnolia, in Larkspur through April 15. Performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm and Sundays at 7pm. (There will be no performance on Easter Sunday.) Doors open at 7pm, and refreshments are available for purchase. Tables inside the theatre may be reserved.
Tickets are $25 to $45. To reserve, call the box office at 381-1638 or see cabaretsf@gmail.com.