Oscar-winning actor Eddie Redmayne has expressed deep pride in the West End revival of the musical Cabaret, as the production celebrated its 1,500th performance at London’s Playhouse Theatre. Redmayne, who took on the role of the Emcee in 2021 alongside Irish actress Jessie Buckley, won the Olivier Award for Best Actor in a Musical for his groundbreaking portrayal of the flamboyant master of ceremonies. Speaking at a special gala night, he reflected on the journey of the show and its enduring resonance.

Redmayne emphasised that the production is a celebration of individuality, commending the way each actor who has taken on the role of the Emcee has brought their unique essence to the character, keeping the show fresh and relevant. “Nothing makes me happier when I’m in London and I see a Cabaret poster go by on a bus,” he told the PA news agency, highlighting the show's continued impact on audiences through its various runs and cast changes. He noted that the director’s vision has consistently celebrated the individual while adapting the performance to reflect contemporary global events.

The musical, set in Berlin during the turbulent jazz age as the Nazis rise to power, explores challenging themes such as sexuality, fascism, and societal exclusion within the seedy confines of the fictional Kit Kat Club, a refuge for outsiders. Redmayne spoke of how Cabaret has always felt particularly resonant and poignant, a sentiment echoed by composer John Kander’s hope that one day such reflections on history might no longer be necessary. However, the production balances these weighty themes with a “joyful, bacchanalian celebration” of freedom and personal expression, which Redmayne considers a vital aspect of the show’s lasting appeal.

Since Redmayne’s tenure, a distinguished line-up of actors has taken on the Emcee’s role at the Playhouse, including Layton Williams, Luke Treadaway, Billy Porter, and Callum Scott Howells. Similarly, the role of Sally Bowles has been played by prominent talents such as Aimee Lou Wood, Cara Delevingne, Marisha Wallace, and Self Esteem. Currently, Bridgerton actress Hannah Dodd stars as Sally Bowles with TikTok star Rob Madge taking on the Emcee role, illustrating the show’s ongoing allure and broad appeal.

The West End revival garnered critical acclaim and was the dominant winner at the 2022 Olivier Awards, securing seven awards including Best Musical Revival. Redmayne’s portrayal was highly praised for its depth and versatility, described as “terrifying and shape-shifting” in some reviews, while Buckley’s Sally Bowles was noted for a raw and defiant performance. The production also earned accolades for Best Director and Best Sound Design, further cementing its standing as a landmark theatrical achievement.

This enduring success is also a testament to the theatre industry's resilience in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, with the Cabaret revival symbolising the rebirth and vibrancy of live performance during challenging times. The production continues to be a poignant reminder of learning from history through the powerful vehicle of musical theatre, booking performances at the Playhouse Theatre until March 28, 2026.

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Source: Noah Wire Services