Every month cabaret supremo Jason Reid trawls through the upcoming cabaret events so you don’t have to, and picks his cream of the crop for Gay London Life. This month our LGBTQ+ venues will be really up against it. January is traditionally the quietest month of the year and now there’s the added pressure of omicron anxiety. So, if you can and are able, please do venture out to a few shows this month. It will honestly make the world of difference to the people whose livelihoods depend on it…
Moore Madness at Two Brewers
Every Monday, from 8pm
A perfect way to start any week. Free cabaret from one of the funniest artists on the scene, the sublime Mrs Moore with special guest Tanya Hyde. Steel yourself for a night of trademark catchphrases, big Bassey numbers, a slew of shots, and enough high camp and innuendo to rival a Carry On film.
114 Clapham High Street, SW4 7UJ
Tube: Clapham North
Miss Penny’s Play Your Cards Right at Halfway to Heaven
Every Wednesday, from 8pm
There’s always a good time to be had at Halfway. The staff are super-friendly, and manager Heather runs a tight ship that knows how to deliver cabaret. Consummate queen Miss Penny is on hand every Wednesday to help wile away those midweek blues with big belting songs, laughs and prizes.
7 Duncannon St, London WC2N 4JF
Tube: Charring Cross
Poppy Cock and Mary GoldPoppycock and Mary Golds at Two Brewers
Saturday 8th Jan, from 8pm
A double helping of top-notch cabaret at the Clapham drag den with Poppycock hitting the stage at 8.30pm and Mary Golds at 10.30pm. It’s Saturday night and they will be bringing the PARTY!
114 Clapham High Street, SW4 7UJ
Tube: Clapham North
Keela Kraving’s Battle Royale New Year’s Special at Colours Hoxton
Saturday 15th, from 7pm
The newest drag competition in town, because everyone loves a bit of competitive comradeship don’t they? A veritable smorgasbord of contestants will be vying for the cash prize at this one-night, free-for-all Battle Royale. Judged by Mahatma Khandi and Bev, and hosted by the hysterical Keela Kraving.
2 Hoxton Square, N1 6PD
Tube: Old Street
Orren Parody Live at Zodiac Bar
Sunday 16th, from 7pm
Slick parodies with generous sprinklings of sex from rising star Orren at London’s brand new LGBTQ+ venue that runs a range of interesting and fun events most nights. Owners Jade and David have worked really hard to make this venue a reality, so pop in and support them when you can!
119 Hampstead Road, NW1 3EE
Tube: Euston Square
LGBTeeHeeHee at Two Brewers
Wednesday 19th, from 7.30pm
A new night showcasing some of the best queer comedians the UK has to offer. And if there’s one thing we all really need right now, it’s a LAUGH! Hosted by Mark Bittlestone won has twice won Up the Creek’s prestigious Blackout competition; there’ll be sets from Charlie George, Josh Jones, Arielle Souma, Michael May and Shelf. Tickets are just 8 quid!! For 6 acts!! Some of them have even been on the telly and everything. Bargain, babes!
114 Clapham High Street, SW4 7UJ
Tube: Clapham North
Son of a TutuSon Of a Tutu at Halfway to Heaven
Thursday 20th, from 8pm
If you don’t know who Tutu is, you are truly missing out in life. I’m not ashamed to say that they’re one of my absolute favourite acts of all time. They light up every stage they step on to and exude charm and star quality. Songs and laughter aplenty! Thursday definitely is the new Friday with Queen Tutu.
7 Duncannon Street, WC2N 4JF
Tube: Charing Cross
Madi Fortune Live at The RVT
Friday 21st, from 6.30pm
Everyone was blown away by this artist when they won the debut of the smash hit competition Tutu’s Soul Search last year, and now Madi Fortune is back at the much venerated RVT with their winners show. Expect chilled vibes, R&B classics, original songs, and special guests at this one-off exclusive show.
372 Kennington Lane, SE11 5HY
Tube: Vauxhall
Ripley’s Like a Sturgeon: Burns night Belter at The RVT
Friday 28th, from 6.30pm
Biting political satire and ingenious parodies interspersed with meticulously edited multimedia, served up by proud scot Ripley who takes on the role of First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon. These shows are few and far between, and are simply unmissable. Save the date, hen! With special guests Asifa Lahore as Priti Patel and Vera Vogue as SNP powerhouse Mhairi Black.
372 Kennington Lane, SE11 5HY
Tube: Vauxhall
Gas Bitch at The Glory
Saturday 29th, from 8pm
Award winning Irish cabaret superstar Xnthony is back with a grand night of comedy and cabaret with extra special guests, and the utterly brilliant Mark T. Cox on piano. Sure look the whole night promises to be totally GAS! Tell yer wan and book those tickets.
281 Kingsland Rd, London E2 8AS
Overground: Haggerston
Jason will be back next month with another run down of London’s best LGBTQ+ Cabaret!
