Emma Hawthorne: Competing in Cabaret
Emma Hawthorne is among the contestants in the 10th Annual Australian Cabaret Showcase (December 17 to 22, 2012), competing in a NSW heat at The El Rocco Room (Bar Me) on Wednesday December 19.
Since graduating NIDA’s Singer, Dancer, Actor course in 2004, Emma’s musical theatre credits have included the Australian tours of Annie, Dr Zhivago, West Side Story, Fiddler on the Roof (TML Productions), Debbie Does Dallas: The Musical (Three Amigos Productions), Kiss Me Kate (The Production Company), Hats Off and Godspell: Prepare Ye. Her cabaret credits include Emotional Baggage, Mini Cabs, and corporate work with vocal trio The Divalettes.
We asked Emma what initially attracted her to cabaret?
“I love to tell stories through song and cabaret is a medium that really allows you to do this. I like the intimate relationship you can have with an audience in cabaret.”
Why is Emma entering the Australian Cabaret Showcase?
“I am entering this competition as a stepping stool in my cabaret career. I am currently working on my own cabaret entitled Catch a Falling Star which I will be performing in February with Nigel Ubrihien. I am performing a small segment from the cabaret at the Cabaret Competition. The competition is not only a way of gaining exposure but also a platform for workshopping new material in a supportive environment.”
Any hints as to what she will be bringing to the stage this competition?
“I like surprises so I will keep the content private but I will tell you that there may be a visual element to my cabaret performance as well.”
What is a typical a day in the life of a cabaret singer?
“Well, as cabaret performing is not usually a full time job, I find every day different. I am constantly working on my skills as a singer, dancer, actor and continually researching and workshopping new material, not only for potential cabarets but also auditions. I guess a day in my life at the moment involves morning yoga, either a singing or dance lesson, practice of cabaret material then teaching a dance or yoga class. I also like to go and see shows and support others as well as keeping an eye out for new and exciting venues.”
The Australian Cabaret Showcase provides a platform for cabaret and musical theatre performers to showcase their talent in front of an audience and before a panel of judges, including some of Australia’s leading entertainers and industry professionals.
The winner of the 10th Annual Australian Cabaret Showcase will receive a prize package including an invitation to perform at the prestigious annual New York Musical Theatre Festival as well as five Festivals in Australia (with flights and accommodation provided), as well as a $1000 cash prize to jumpstart their career. The winner will also receive a photographic and design package courtesy of Blueprint Studios, as well as publicity for their tour courtesy of IP Publicity.
Heats and Final
QLD Heat:
Berardo’s Restaurant and Bar, Noosa Heads. - Mon – Dec 17
VIC Heat:
Bennetts Lane, Melbourne - Tuesday – Dec 18
NSW Heats:
The El Rocco Room (Bar Me), Kings Cross. - Tues - Dec 18, Wed – Dec 19.
Cabaret Showcase Grand Final:
The Basement, Sydney. - Sat – Dec 22 at 8pm
Bookings: (NSW and Victoria) www.moshtix.com.au | Ph: 1300 438 849 & Queensland www.berardos.com.au | Ph: 07 5448 0888