Adam Lambert, the charismatic singer known for his powerful voice and dynamic stage presence, has found himself in the spotlight once again, this time as the Emcee in the Broadway production of “Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club.” This marked Lambert’s debut as a leading man on Broadway, a role he has embraced with both passion and depth. The production, a reimagined version of the classic musical, transforms the August Wilson Theatre into an intimate, cabaret-style venue, immersing the audience in the decadent and politically charged world of 1930s Berlin. Lambert’s portrayal of the Emcee is a masterful blend of charisma, sensuality, and underlying menace, capturing the essence of a character who serves as both the showman and the moral compass of the story.
Lambert’s journey into the world of “Cabaret” began several months ago, following in the footsteps of Eddie Redmayne, who originated the role in this production. He is currently sharing the stage with Auliʻi Cravalho, who plays Sally Bowles, and their chemistry has been a highlight of the show. The production has been praised for its timely themes, which resonate deeply with contemporary audiences. Lambert, who identifies as both gay and Jewish, has brought a personal connection to the role, particularly in the context of the rise of fascism and the erosion of individual freedoms. He has spoken about how the show’s themes of resistance and survival feel eerily relevant in today’s political climate, making the production a powerful cautionary tale.
One of the most striking aspects of Lambert’s performance is his ability to navigate the show’s tonal shifts. The first act is a riot of color, music, and hedonism, with the Emcee serving as the ringmaster of a raunchy and rebellious nightclub. Lambert’s portrayal is playful and provocative, drawing the audience into the exhilarating world of the Kit Kat Club. However, as the story progresses, the mood darkens, and the Emcee’s facade begins to crack, revealing a deeper vulnerability and fear. Lambert has spoken about the challenge of guiding the audience through this emotional journey, ensuring that they are prepared for the sobering reality of Act 2. He has also shared moments where he has addressed the audience directly, particularly during a song called “If You Could See Her,” where he has stopped the show to remind the audience of the gravity of the moment, emphasizing that the themes of prejudice and intolerance are not to be taken lightly.
Lambert’s interpretation of the Emcee has also been influenced by his own identity and experiences. He has drawn parallels between the plight of the LGBTQ+ community in 1930s Berlin and the ongoing struggles for equality today. The production highlights the vibrant queer subculture of the time, which was brutally suppressed by the Nazis, and Lambert has expressed a deep connection to this part of the story. His performance is both a celebration of the freedom and creativity of the pre-Nazi era and a poignant reminder of the fragility of those freedoms. He has also explored the idea of survival and assimilation, as the Emcee and the other characters are forced to adapt to a world that is increasingly hostile to their existence.
The role of the Emcee has been a career highlight for Lambert, and he has expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to play such a complex and iconic character. His performance has been widely praised, with critics noting that he brings a unique blend of vulnerability and wit to the role. Lambert has also reflected on the challenges of performing in a long-running musical, particularly the physical and emotional demands of playing the same character eight times a week. Despite the demands, he has found the experience deeply rewarding, both personally and professionally. He has spoken about the sense of community and camaraderie among the cast and crew, and how the shared experience of telling such an important story has been a source of inspiration and strength.
Looking ahead, Lambert has expressed a desire to continue exploring the world of theater, though he has no immediate plans following the conclusion of his run in “Cabaret.” He has spoken about the importance of storytelling as a means of connecting with audiences and inspiring change, and he hopes that his performance will leave a lasting impact on those who see the show. For now, Lambert is savoring the experience of being part of such a groundbreaking production, and he has encouraged audiences to embrace the power of live theater as a way to engage with the world around them. As “Cabaret” continues its run, Lambert’s performance remains a testament to the enduring relevance of the musical and the importance of stories that challenge us to think, feel, and act.
