The 2024 Adelaide Cabaret Festival promises to be a vibrant celebration of established stars and rising voices. This excitement is fuelled by the enduring legacy of Frank Ford AM and the ongoing generosity of philanthropist Sam Harvey.
Ford, who passed away in 2018, was a legend in the Australian cabaret scene. As the festival's founder, he championed emerging artists, acting as a mentor to generations of Adelaide creatives. His passion for nurturing future talent lives on through the Frank Ford Commission, which in 2024 supports the presentation of Skinny a new work by South Australian artist Michelle Pearson.
Sam Harvey picks up the torch, honouring Ford's legacy through his own brand of support. This year, Harvey champions rising star Cassie Hamilton by supporting her show A Transgender Woman on the Internet, Crying in the 2024 Cabaret Festival program.
From L to R: Sam Harvey and Frank Ford AM
Image: Claudio Raschella, 2015
This dedication to nurturing new voices is reflected throughout the 2024 Festival program, lovingly curated by Artistic Director, Virginia Gay. Alongside renowned performers, audiences can discover exciting new acts pushing the boundaries of cabaret.
So, when the curtain rises on the 2024 Adelaide Cabaret Festival, remember – you're not just witnessing exceptional performances; you're experiencing the future of cabaret being ignited by the combined efforts of past and present champions.
A heartfelt thank you to both Frank Ford's enduring legacy and Sam Harvey's visionary generosity. Together with Adelaide Festival Centre Foundation and Adelaide Festival Centre Artistic Director’s Fund, their unwavering commitment to nurturing new voices ensures the future of Australian cabaret remains bright.
We also extend a special thank you to Vili's Family Bakery for supporting Adelaide Cabaret Festival's $30 under 30 program, helping to foster the next generation of cabaret devotees.
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2024 Adelaide Cabaret Festival shows presented with support from Adelaide Festival Centre Foundation:
Life in Plastic - Christie Whelan Browne, supported by the Artistic Director’s Fund
Bumbling – Isobel Marmion, Caitlin Ellen Moore, Kidaan Zelleke, supported by the Artistic Director’s Fund
Skinny – Michelle Pearson, supported by the Frank Ford Commission
A Transgender Woman on the Internet, Crying – Cassie Hamilton, supported by Sam Harvey and the late Frank Ford AM, founder of Adelaide Cabaret Festival
Class of Cabaret - Nathaniel O’Brien Class of Cabaret Scholarship, supported by Adelaide Festival Centre Foundation