No stranger to the Cardiff and Welsh performance art enthusiasts, the new Cabaret addition to Wales Millenium Centre offers an even bigger array of shows to bop along too. With the season well under way, we were delighted to be invited along to this sold out evening.

The Location

Wales Millenium centre sits at the heart of Cardiff Bay, easily accessible by public transport or a scenic stroll (when the weather permits). The Cabaret space is located at the rear of the building – you can go through or there is a separate entrance. Seasonally, you will be able to spot a Ferris Wheel not too far away!

Safety & Accessibility

As regulars at the venue, WMC has been a consistent safe space and it as evident this was a common feeling for the audience as they champion all creators and attendees. 

There are no steps or stairs to get to the bar and toilets available here, though it remains easy to pop into any of the facilities of the wider WMC.

We were delighted to find the show was facilitated by a BSL interpreter!

The discounts offered by WMC also make performances more financially accessible for anyone wanting to attend.

The Experience

The best way to describe our night can only be the most fun, boisterous time warp we could have asked for! With the doors open before the show, we arrived early to explore the space and scout out a good spot for the night. The space is completely transformed from it’s predecessor (Ffresh for the fans) and houses a bar area, stage and seating in a bright, upbeat aesthetic.

Having collected our complimentary drinks from the bar, we got stuck into mingling with familiar faces, friendly strangers and some of the acts to go on! These encompassed such a variety of genres, visuals, props, and interactions – all bursting with talent and many surprising us from the beginning to the end from Ernest’s bespoke cash for the crowd to Pigeon Hole’s bread – there was not a silent seat in the house!

We treated ourselves to some rainbow popcorn in the spirit of the night – these were served via table service with our next round of drinks during and is the standard set up once shows commence. The menu accessed by QR code offers a selection of drink and snack options hosted by incredibly helpful and friendly staff. 

It is an understatement to say this night truly blew it out of the water for me. As someone who has not been to a drag event before, let alone one with Drag Kings, one could be forgiven to think I was down bad for every performer. It was wonderful to see so many local (and neighbouring) talent get the kudos it deserves in collaboration by amazing organisations like Queerdos, Wales Millenium Centre and Arts Council Wales. We heartily recommend one of the many upcoming cabaret events as your next night out – or the beginning of one! You will be well looked after and more than entertained!

Upcoming cabaret shows at Cabaret, Wales Millenium Centre

• Promising a truly horror-filled drag cabaret experience we would check out Haus of Cymru Presents...Horrible Drag!

• Enjoy a very unique celebration of the people’s princess with Diana: The Untold and Untrue Story

• Get involved with a very Doctor Who themed affair with the Gallifrey Cabaret

Book your spot to attend the next cabaret show on the Wales Millenium Website: Cabaret, Wales Millenium Centre

Reviewed by Mishail Farooq

Disclaimer: I was gifted my tickets in exchange for an honest review of the experience