A fresh, fun and exciting comedic talent that is the perfect fit for the Cabaret Festival
Presented by: Adelaide Festival Centre
Reviewed: 6 June 2026
Dylan Adler might be new to Adelaide audiences, but his flavour of cabaret is exactly what we expect and love in the Adelaide Cabaret Festival under the fabulous Reuben Kaye – camp with a capital C.
Adler has been doing stand-up and comedy writing in the US, with credits like the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre, off-Broadway musical improv, and The Late Late Show with James Corden. On top of all of the comedic talent, Adler is also a classically trained pianist. Combine this with a healthy dollop of camp sass and you have a jam-packed hour of entertainment.
Adler’s set is tight with every punch line being both surprising as well as hilarious; whether he is telling the story of his high school bully, or coming out with this equally gay twin brother. Accompanying himself on piano, the show is interspersed with original songs and musical interludes that are both moving and clever. The jokes are fast and furious, with not enough time to be shocked by any of the lewd connotations or outright imagery.
It is Adler’s connection to his heritage that really rounds out this show to be special. Identifying as half Japanese, half Jewish, Adler’s connection to the former provides insight into his connection to family, tradition and acceptance. It was his Japanese grandmother after all who first taught him to play piano. The reverence and care for this is clear, while poking fun at some of the cultural aspects that are not so conducive to being a performative gay man. His dramatic mother impression with a constant Sex and the City soundtrack is never not funny. She is an ally after all.
A shout out must be given to the tech crew on this show, particularly lighting and sound. Every punch line, every transition is timed to perfection with multiple snaps and stings peppered throughout Adler’s outwardly chaotic performance (but clearly very calculated and polished in reality). It adds to the humour and takes what could be a basic comedy club act to the heights of Cabaret camp that we all expect and enjoy. A brilliant hour of fun and Dylan Adler is someone to watch as his name gains recognition in Australia.
Reviewed by Hayley Horton
Photo credit: Claudio Raschella
Venue: Space Theatre, Adelaide Festival Centre
Season: 6 – 7 June 2026
Duration: 60 minutes
Tickets: $49 – $54 (plus booking fee)
Bookings: https://cabaret.adelaidefestivalcentre.com.au/whats-on/dylan-adler-haus-of-dy-lan
