Save The Date For The Musical Theatre Event Of 2026: Cabaret

“Leave your troubles outside! In here, life is beautiful.”

One of the most iconic musicals of all time, Cabaret – The Musical at the Kit Kat Club, winner of eight Tony Awards, plays at the ASB Waterfront Theatre from 22 September to 18 October 2026. A dazzling cast of New Zealand’s finest performers will set loose a provocative collision of live music, movement, and seduction that will leave audiences breathless. Tickets are on sale now.

Welcome to Berlin, 1929. As the curtain falls on the Jazz Age, the city and its glorious misfits celebrate with a roaring party of sex, booze and hedonism. At the infamous Kit Kat Club, Sally Bowles lives for today in a bohemian gin-soaked dream, as the shadow of the Third Reich looms.

Sixty years after Cabaret first set the world stage alight, and following celebrated West End and Broadway revivals, Auckland Theatre Company and Auckland Live present a sizzling New Zealand production, proving why Cabaret is still one of the most beloved musicals of all time.

“An enduring masterpiece of a musical.” - The Telegraph, London

“A dazzling spectacle.” - Theatreland, London

Directed by Benjamin Kilby-Henson (Romeo & Juliet, Strictly Ballroom), this production will showcase his trademark theatrical force, flair and fabulosity. Kilby-Henson leads a stellar all-local cast and creative team including Nomi Cohen (Chicago) who takes on the legendary role of the eccentric and outrageous Sally Bowles, and Matu Ngaropo (Ngāi Tūhoe, Te Rarawa, Ngāti Porou) (The Lion King, Hamilton) who embodies the mischievous and sinister Emcee. Further cast to be announced.

Cabaret’s continued success is amplified by Kander and Ebb’s incredible score, with songs like Wilkommen, Mein Herr, Money, Two Ladies and Maybe This Time. “Every song’s a banger,” says Kilby-Henson. “It’s seedy, sumptuous, and alive - exactly what great theatre should be.”

Auckland Theatre Company and Auckland Live have partnered to bring this local production to the stage. Tātaki Auckland Unlimited Director of Performing Arts, leading Auckland Live, Daniel Clarke says, “There’s a thrilling energy in having Cabaret – The Musical brought to life by our own artists here in Tāmaki Makaurau. Partnering with Auckland Theatre Company allows us to champion Aotearoa’s incredible musical theatre talent and share that joy with audiences across our city. It’s bold, it’s beautiful, and it’s being made right here in Auckland.”

What good is sitting alone in your room? Come hear the music play, and end winter 2026 with a bang!

An Auckland Theatre Company and Auckland Live production, proudly supported by Auckland Council Events and the city centre targeted rate.

Cabaret – The Musical at the Kit Kat Club
Book by Joe Masteroff | Based on the play by John Van Druten and Stories byChristopher Isherwood 
Music by John Kander | Lyrics by Fred Ebb
22 September – 18 October 2026
ASB Waterfront Theatre, Wynyard Quarter, Auckland 
Tickets on sale now at atc.co.nz 
Presenting partner: MiNDFOOD

Creative Team:
Direction - Benjamin Kilby-Henson
Musical Direction - Robin Kelly
Choreography - Kira Josephson
Set & Costume Design – Dan Williams
Lighting Design – Filament Eleven 11 - Rachel Marlow & Bradley Gledhill
Sound Design – Sam Clavis

Cast:
A cast of seven actors including:
Sally Bowles - Nomi Cohen
The Emcee - Matu Ngaropo
With the Kit Kat Club ensemble and live band

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