Adam Lambert Schools Audience on Cabaret’s Serious Themes
Adam Lambert is serving up more than just show-stopping performances in “Cabaret,” he’s also dishing out some much-needed reality checks to giggling audience members who don’t quite grasp the heavy themes of the beloved Broadway musical. After a viral incident where Lambert halted the show to reprimand a chatty spectator, he unpacked the weight of those moments during a recent chat on “The View.”
Lambert touched upon a key scene where he performs “If You Could See Her,” which cleverly uses satire to address antisemitism—a subject far from humorous, especially in today’s world. “There’s a couple—one Jewish and one not—discussing their struggles in a society plagued with prejudice,” he explained. He recounted seeing laughter from the audience during a moment that’s decidedly not punchline material. “It’s as if they forget the gravity of what’s really being said,” he added, pointing out how a few “too many drinks” can lead to misplaced laughter at a poignant moment.
This isn’t the first time Lambert’s found himself having to remind the audience that “Cabaret” is a layered exploration of social issues, especially with its narrative set in pre-WWII Germany during the rise of Nazi ideologies. He emphasized that while the first act might be packed with cheeky humor, the second act plunges into the dire consequences faced by marginalized groups. Reflecting on the current sociopolitical climate, Lambert noted how eerily relevant the show feels today as world events echo the dark themes of the production. “We’re living in a time where acts of intolerance are resurfacing, making it all the more crucial that we really listen to the messages in these narratives,” he asserted.
Having taken on the role of the emcee in “Cabaret” since September 2024, Lambert will keep the character alive on stage until March 29. So, the next time you decide to catch a performance, remember: this isn’t merely a night of delightful Broadway antics; it’s an insight into the shadows of our society. As Lambert so rightfully pointed out, if we don’t pay attention to history, we might just find ourselves reliving it.
Sources: Celebrity Storm Wire and Entertainment Weekly, Broadway.com, The New York Times
