Reuben Kaye, acclaimed for his brash and comedic stylings, has been honoured with the 2024 Adelaide Cabaret Festival Icon Award. The announcement was made at The 2024 Variety Gala, held in the Festival Theatre of the Adelaide Festival Centre. The venue, packed to capacity, witnessed this significant recognition of Kaye’s contributions to the cabaret landscape.
Known for his audacious performances, Reuben Kaye combines dramatic flair with biting humour in his shows, making him a standout favourite at the Adelaide Cabaret Festival over the years. His international success spans sold-out performances in Australia and prominent venues across London and Europe. Kaye brings a unique blend of music and comedy, often performing alongside his band, The Close Contacts. His acts are widely enjoyed and shared, accruing millions of views on social media platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram.
The Adelaide Cabaret Festival’s Artistic Director, Virginia Gay, praised Kaye’s influence and unique approach to the art form. “Reuben Kaye is the essence of modern cabaret. Magnetic, irreverent, howlingly funny, and the truest and best spirit of mischief – which you would know if he’s ever sat spreadeagled, upside-down on you in one of his shows (lucky you),” said Gay. She highlighted his role in using performance to challenge oppression, underscoring his wide-reaching appeal in every city he has performed.
Kaye is set to return to the Adelaide Cabaret Festival with his latest creation, “The End – Songs of Finality and Farewell”. Scheduled during the festival’s final late-night weekend, on June 21 and 22, this show promises to deliver another round of Kaye’s signature mix of provocative content and uproarious comedy, hosted in the Banquet Room.
The Cabaret Icon Award, established under the artistic direction of Kate Ceberano in 2013, is an annual accolade that recognises individuals who have significantly shaped the Australian cabaret scene. Notable past recipients include Reg Livermore AO, Rhonda Burchmore OAM, and most recently, Matt Gilbertson, Hans (2022). This award underscores the Adelaide Cabaret Festival’s dedication to celebrating the profound impact of leading artists in this eclectic and dynamic field of performance.
In addition to his cabaret accomplishments, Reuben Kaye has established a noteworthy presence across various media. His outspoken and flamboyant persona has graced television screens on programs like Spicks and Specks, and Celebrity Letters and Numbers, among others. Kaye’s influence extends beyond the stage as he uses his platform to vocalise support for LGBTQI+ rights and other social issues, striking a chord with a broad audience through humour and advocacy.
With a vibrant career that continues to evolve, Kaye’s 2024 season has already seen his new show, “Apocalipstik,” garner widespread acclaim. Starting with a bustling run at the Adelaide Fringe Festival, it continued to captivate audiences across major comedy events, including the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.
The Adelaide Cabaret Festival 2024, running from June 7 – 22, promises an exciting lineup of performances that epitomise Cabaret’s rich diversity and creativity.
Tickets and additional information about the festival and its array of offerings can be found at the Adelaide Cabaret Festival website.
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