UNC Asheville Theatre Department Presents Cabaret April 17–26

From left to right – Finch McGowan playing Sally Bowles and Max Thompson playing Emcee. Photo credit Rodney Smith.

The University of North Carolina Asheville Drama Department will present Cabaret, the iconic musical set in 1930s Berlin, from April 17–26, 2026, in the Carol Belk Theatre. This powerful production contrasts the decadent nightlife of the Kit Kat Klub with the growing shadow of Nazism, exploring themes of racism, love, denial, and complicity during a pivotal moment in history.

Directed by Stephanie Hickling-Beckman, Cabaret features a vibrant cast, bold choreography, and immersive design elements that bring the world of pre-war Berlin to life. The production showcases the talents of UNC Asheville students both on stage and behind the scenes.

When asked what excites her most about the production, Hickling-Beckman said “Everything! The cast, the costumes, the dancing, the singing, the set, and the fact that I get to direct the last department show.”

Audiences are invited to enhance their theatre-going experience by dressing up for themed costume nights throughout the run.

Performance Schedule

• Friday, April 17 – 7:30 p.m. (Vintage Night – pre-2000s)
• Saturday, April 18 – 7:30 p.m.
• Sunday, April 19 – 2:00 p.m. (Drag/Burlesque Night)
• Friday, April 24 – 7:30 p.m. (Antique Night – pre-1900s)
• Saturday, April 25 – 7:30 p.m.
• Sunday, April 26 – 2:00 p.m. (Masquerade Night)

Cabaret runs approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes, including a 15-minute intermission. Due to mature themes, sexual content, and choreographed intimacy, the production is recommended for audiences ages 17 and older.

Ticket Information

• General Admission: $17.30 (incl. est. $2.30 in fees)
• UNC Asheville Faculty/Staff: $12.10 (incl. est. $2.10 in fees)
• UNC Asheville Students: $6.90 (incl. est. $1.90 in fees)
• Ticket Sales at the Door +$2.00

Tickets are available online at www.onthestage.tickets/show/theatreunca/697bd38001d7a524475e770d.

Cabaret is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Tams-Witmark LLC.

About UNC Asheville

Founded in 1927, UNC Asheville is a proud member of the University of North Carolina System. With award-winning faculty, small class sizes, and 90+ academic programs in the natural sciences, human sciences, humanities, arts, and social sciences, the University is recognized for its robust paid internship programs to prepare students to immediately enter the workforce. In the US News & World Report 2025 edition of Best Colleges, UNC Asheville is ranked No. #9 in Top Public Schools, and No. #7 in Princeton Review’s 2025 Top 50 Guide to Green Colleges. Known as the Bulldogs, UNC Asheville student-athletes compete in 16 NCAA Division I Teams in the Big South Conference. For more information, please visit: www.unca.edu.