Adelaide Cabaret Festival is thrilled to welcome submissions for its 2026 program, with expressions of interest now open for New or In Development Works, Established Works, and Roving Performers & Solo Acts – including high school students encouraged to apply through the Class of Cabaret.
Adelaide Cabaret Festival and centrED are seeking submissions from talented students currently in Year 10 or 11 to participate in the popular Class of Cabaret Program for 2026.
The program, which has been running for over 15 years with the support of Department for Education SA, offers mentorship and tuition from two renowned artists, culminating in performances at Adelaide Cabaret Festival and offering SACE accreditation for participants.
Regional students are encouraged to apply for the Nathaniel O’Brien Class of Cabaret Scholarship, created to honour the memory of Class of Cabaret graduate Nathaniel O’Brien.
The recipients of the scholarship, funded by Adelaide Festival Centre Foundation, will participate in the Class of Cabaret program and receive assistance valued up to $6000 to assist with travel, accommodation and private vocal tuition.
Under the new Artistic Direction of multi-award-winning Australian comedian, singer, and writer Reuben Kaye, next year’s Adelaide Cabaret Festival is sure to push boundaries and champion fearless, genre-defying performance.
“My first official statement as Artistic Director of Adelaide Cabaret Festival. I always thought perhaps this statement would be some grand declaration or decree but actually it’s perfect that it’s a plea,” said Adelaide Cabaret Festival 2026 Artistic Director, Reuben Kaye.
“A call, a cry into the void for artists to come forth. For every artist who has felt that they don’t necessarily belong in the mainstream to know that Adelaide Cabaret Festival is waiting for you. I want you, your vision and most importantly, I want your shows.”
“You could be a Class of Cabaret hopeful, an established artist, an emerging artist. You may have a show or just a great idea for one. Let us know about it! We have opportunities to stage, develop and encourage artists no matter where they are in their trajectory.
From the Frank Ford Commission to development support, we can do it – but only if you bring it to us and by us… I mean ME! I hereby announce: Submissions are open for Adelaide Cabaret Festival 2026!” said Kaye.
“Adelaide Cabaret Festival continues to stand out as a global platform for remarkable performers. With Reuben Kaye leading the way in 2026, we look forward to a captivating program that showcases the finest in cabaret from Australia and across the globe,” said Adelaide Festival Centre CEO, Kate Gould.
“Adelaide Cabaret Festival is renowned around the world for showcasing extraordinary local, national and international artists and I look forward to seeing the incredible calibre of performers that apply for the 2026 event. Reuben Kaye is sure to select a bold and exciting line up,” said The Hon Andrea Michaels MP, South Australian Minister for Arts.
Produced and presented by Adelaide Festival Centre, Adelaide Cabaret Festival has grown from modest beginnings in 2001 to become one of Australia’s major winter festival and the largest cabaret festival of its kind in the world.
The festival has been a platform for shows and performers who have achieved critical acclaim and has featured world-renowned artists including Ms Lisa Fischer, Kristin Chenoweth, Tim Minchin, Eddie Perfect, Idina Menzel, Dita Von Teese and Patti LuPone to name a few…
The Adelaide Cabaret Festival 2026 will take place in June. EOIs for New Works and Established Works close 14 September 2025. EOIs for Roving Performers & Solo Acts will remain open year-round. For more information and to apply, visit: www.adelaidefestivalcentre.com.au for details.
Image: Adelaide Cabaret Festival Artistic Director Reuben Kaye – photo by Claudio Raschella