Our very own cabaret aficionado Jason Reid peruses the upcoming cabaret events every month so you don’t have to, and picks his cream of the crop for Gay London Life.
There is so much happening this month on London’s glorious LGBTQ+ cabaret scene. And I, for one, am delighted to see it thriving. Here’s my pick of the crop for November…
Mother Tucking Tuesdays at Halfway to Heaven
Every Tuesday, from 8pm
This Charing Cross cabaret gem promises shows from the best in the business every Tuesday, every week of the year. In November you can see The Duchess on the 5th, Auntie Ginger on the 12th, Krystal Ball on the 19th, and Miles Elliot on the 26th. Great variety and a warm atmosphere on a night that’s ordinarily quiet on the cabaret scene, plus it’s free entry at all times. You can’t go wrong!
7 Duncannon Street, WC2N 4JF
Tube: Charing Cross
West End Wednesdays at Rupert Street Soho
Every Wednesday, from 7.30pm
Hosted by superb vocalist Carrot who belts out show-tune after show-tune, often with special guests, while bartenders serve up a mouthwatering assortment of cocktails and drinks (up to 50% off till 8pm). Free entry all night. A kitsch night out with a good vibe.
50 Rupert St, W1D 6DR
Tube: Piccadilly Circus
Cocktails and Cabaret at Ku Lounge
Every Wednesday, from 10pm
Set in the heart of bustling Chinatown, KU Lounge is a beautiful hideaway located above the world-famous KU Bar. On Wednesday nights, Vicki Vivacious, star of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK and KU resident artist, provides a much-needed dose of midweek escapism in the form of magnificent music and raillery. Coupled with KU’s luscious cocktails, this is a match made in heaven!
30 Lisle St, WC2H 7BA
Tube: Leicester Square
Hans Berlin Presents Shooting Star – A Revealing New Musical at Two Brewers
Thursday 14th, 7.30 pm; Sunday 17th, 3pm & 7pm; Saturday 23rd, 6pm
Starring drag diva Divina De Campo (check out my interview with them in this month’s print edition) and scene icon Jonny Woo, Shooting Star is a musical love story set in the world of the gay adult film industry, which explores identity, family, love and some of the life of porn star Hans Berlin. Except an immersive theatre experience. Limited run of shows at Two Brewers.
114 Clapham High Street, SW4 7UJ
Tube: Clapham North
FOC it Up! at Soho Theatre
Saturday 16th, 9.15pm
Laughter is most certainly the best medicine, as the saying goes, and this comedy club which consists of comedians of colour who aren’t cis-men, always ensures that there’s a plentiful supply! A great night out with top-notch comedians.
21 Dean Street, W1D 3NE
Tube: Tottenham Court Road
Singalong Sundays at City Of Quebec
Sunday 17th, from 3pm
Enjoy a spirited afternoon of singalongs with musical theatre drag duo Lady Imelda and CJ at London’s oldest LGBTQ+ venue, which is located just off Oxford Street. And if you’re feeling brave, you can even get up and belt out a number as requests are welcome.
12 Old Quebec Street, W1H 7AF
Tube: Marble Arch
Drag With No Name at The Old Ship
Sunday 17th, 9.30pm
There is never a dull moment with the gloriously eccentric Drag With No Name. Every show is choc-a-bloc with hilarious skits, parodies, and live music, plus props and costume changes galore. You will come away feeling uplifted and ready for the week ahead. Free entry at all times. The Old Ship is a traditional east end pub that prides itself on its warm hospitality.
7 Barnes Street, E14 7NW
DLR: Limehouse
Jack and the Beanstalk – What a Whopper at Charing Cross Theatre
Saturday 23rd onwards, 7.30pm
It’s that time of the year again! Oh yes it is! Adult pantos are always so much fun, and this offering from He’s Behind You productions promises to be profoundly silly and staggeringly naughty. Written by Jon Bradfield and Martin Hooper. With the magnificent Matthew Baldwin as Dame Trott.
The Arches, Villiers Street WC2N 6NL
Tube: Charing Cross/Embankment
Pecs Drag Kings: The Anniversary Show at Shoreditch Town Hall
Saturday 23rd, all day festival, showtime 8pm
Renowned all female/non-binary theatre and cabaret company Pecs Drag Kings celebrate their 10 year anniversary with an all-day drag king festival which culminates in a spectacular evening show. Expect some greatest hits and highlights, plus some fantastic new treats!
380 Old Street, EC1V 9LT
Tube: Old Street
That Time of the Month at Zodiac Bar
Friday 29th, from 7pm
Fabulous Friday cabaret from two brilliant drag stars to end the working week on the right note. Zodiac resident artists Eileen Eiffell and Solero Summers provide the live music and comedy, promising a fun-filled night with a generous sprinkling of camp mayhem and frivolity. The party continues long after the show finishes as Zodiac is open till 2am with a DJ playing pop and dance music. Free entry before 9pm!
119 Hampstead Road, NW1 3EE
Tube: Euston/Warren Street
Check back next month when Jason will return with another top ten.
Go give him a follow @jasonreiduk
