The lights are dim and the candles flicker on each table, draped in fabric. The ambiance of an authentic “Moulin Rouge” cabaret fills the air as the audience shuffles in, mesmerized. The stage is set. The Grand piano awaits in the corner, the lights are about to come up.
A classic cabaret comes to Venice. Saturday June 14th, at 8:00 pm, marks the gala opening of what will be a monthly series of incredible performances. The Venice Cabaret Theatre. is a perfect combination for local singers and musicians to sing their songs and play their tunes while artists exhibit their work in an incredible setting reminiscent of the 1920’s French cabaret…. all played deliciously within a grand historic turn-of-the-century ballroom called the Blankenship Ballet Studio.
Co-producers of the Venice Cabaret Theatre series, Mark Blankenship owner of the Blankenship Ballet Company and Lauri Reimer, singer/songwriter and event coordinator, want to put a spotlight on the local talent. “Venice is filled with amazing artists of every kind”, says Blankenship. “I am proud to produce an event like this; it will be a remarkable night of diverse talent every month”. “Just last year I was down on my knees pulling nails out of the floor” he remarks, “now that the studio is finally refurbished, I have the difficult task of choosing which events work best here. I am truly excited that Lauri Reimer approached me about this engaging event”. Having restored the ballroom to its original grandeur, The Blankenship Ballet Studio located at 132 Brooks Ave. in Venice is flourishing with new and eclectic happenings each month.
On Saturday June 14th the Blankenship Ballet Studio presents the first Venice Cabaret Theatre as it transforms into a wonderful artistic and musical experience complete with the charm of a European cabaret theatre.
Singer/Songwriter and comedienne, Kathy Leonardo will be the emcee for the evening as well as performing with other musical artists such as New Orleans inspired keyboardist, Alfred Johnson and his band, playing his lyric driven songs; trumpeter Paul LItteral and friends playing jazz and standards; the bluesy Steve Burr Band; eclectic guitarist Vinnie Caggiano, and country singer/songwriter Jamie Shuey. This will be a night to remember. There will be complimentary refreshments. Food will also be available for sale.
Take a step back into history (Paris, 1920’s), but forward as The Venice Cabaret Theatre makes history. Feel the romance, and be a part of this magical event. Experience Cabaret, Venetian style. “Life is a cabaret old friend…” Come to the Venice Cabaret Theatre at The Blankenship Ballet Studio 132 Brooks Ave. (on the Corner of Main and Brooks at Abbot Kinney Blvd) in Venice. at 8:00 pm. $10.00 prepaid with reservation; $15.00 at the door. Call now 1(866) 922-5538. Or visit myspace.com/VeniceCabaretTheatre or www.BlankenshipBallet.com.
