Journey to the Centre of Attention.

I had heard the rumours, but nothing could have prepared me for the tour de force that is Reuben Kaye.

A tall, devilishly handsome man doused in glitter and rhinestones and the longest eyelashes I have ever seen, he is a cross between a drag queen and a matinee idol. As he sashayed toward the stage, microphone in hand, it became apparent that he is all about the details - this is a microphone adorned with a mane of brunette locks.

Accompanied on piano by musical director Shanon Whitlock, Kaye whips the audience into a frenzy within moments of being on stage. With confidence overflowing, he tells us about his high school crush, his dysfunctional upbringing and the bullying he endured; though he relays it in such a way that it evokes laughter rather than sympathy.

He lends his strong vocals and individual interpretations to classic songs such as ‘Wuthering Heights’ and ‘Down Under’, showcasing a subtler look at the man behind the silk polyester blend coat.

Kaye is quick witted and a natural with his attentive audience. Flirting his way through the crowd, he pulls us all in with his self-effacing humour and relatable naughtiness.

The audience were asked to count down from ten as Kaye made a costume change. As he emerged in a hot pink wrap-around full-length coat with sequined hearts and feathers, the crowd exploded in approval.

Kaye could do no wrong; he is quite simply what cabaret is all about. This fast-paced and hilarious show knocked it out of the park.

Kerry Cooper

Photographer: Ayesha Hussain