For an Exquisite Evening: Berlin's Best Cabaret Events

Berlin and cabaret have shaken, shimmied and sashayed their way through history hand-in-hand since anyone can remember. What started as a political artistic movement back in 1901 has continued on, gracing countless Berlin stages with its performative presence. The city has never stopped being a hub for colourful, creative, boundary-pushing performances, and the tradition marches on. From burlesque to striptease, drag performances to circus-ready antics, these are the best upcoming cabaret events in Berlin. We update our listings regularly, so check in the next time you’re looking for a night of fantastic, frivolous fun.

JUL 31

The Velvet Creepers

The Velvet Creepers are taking over the Kolonnadenbar on Museuminsel for a night filled with magical circus nostalgia, queer performance art and a DJ set from Flemish.Fetish. Described as “Weimar cabaret on acid meets Berlin queer club culture”, their shows are always a delicious mix of hedonism and heart-stopping turns. For this fun event on Museuminsel, entry is even free!

Kolonnadenbar, Jul 31, details

THROUGH AUG 2

Carnivale Royale

Roll up, roll up! The queens and queers have entered the big top, aka the Chamäleon theatre, for a sizzling show focused on LGBTQIA+ representation and inclusivity. For more info, see our preview in the stage section.

Chamäleon Berlin, through Aug 2, details

AUG 8

Queer Wrestling Circus

Queer wrestling circus has become a staple for the fun-loving queer community, and wouldn’t it? Queer wrestling meets drag, meets burlesque, meets stand-up – there’s almost too much fun packed into one event. The evening is hosted by Eric Big Clit and Eve Champagne and promises to be full of big, sweaty entertainment!

Astra Kulturhaus, Aug 8, 20:00, details

AUG 22

Special: Le Ciné-Burlesque

*Image Credit: IMAGO / Cinema Publishers Collection*

The Yorck Cinema Group offers yet another fusion of art forms. Ruby de Cadence and Gisela Kloppke will present Le Ciné-Burlesque, a unique combination of live burlesque show and cinema. Following the show, they’ll screen the Hollywood classic The Band Wagon, starring Fred Astaire and Cyd Charisse. Simply iconic!

Cinema Paris, Aug 22, starts 18:30, details

AUG 29

Boheme Sauvage on the Spree

If you really want to experience the golden age, specifically 1920s Berlin, this night is a homage to everything Weimar Republic. Think The Great Gatsby meets Cabaret and you’ll be close to home. Everyone dresses to impress, so pull out your best threads and dance ’til dawn! This time the celebration will take place on a boat for some fun in the sun!

Steamer Kaiser Friedrich, Aug 29, starts 19:30, details

SEP 4

The Sublime Kabarett

A vivid show blending circus artistry, drag and comedy, The Sublime Kabarett is The Sublime Society‘s recurring queer-friendly, adults-only event hosted by Charlie Bouquett, which sees a plethora of international artists gather in a former women’s prison in Lichterfelde, The Knast, to show off their talents.

The Knast, Sep 4, starts 20:00, details

Cabaret Chaotik

Berlin’s all FLINTA* cabaret and circus is coming to Zirkus Mond. Featuring performances by acrobats, showgirls, pilots, aerialists and a live music by A Panda Do Sol, the night will be filled with impressive feats and warm sounds.

Zirkus Mond, Sep 4, doors 19:00, details

Gieza’s PokeHouse

This monthly drag show aims to showcase Berlin’s emerging drag talents. Every first Friday of the month sees the show later followed by a party with DJs, dragging on well into the night.

Tipsy Bear, Sep 4, starts 19:30, details

SEP 11

St. Rip It Off by Lolita Va Voom

One of Tipsy Bear’s most sensual events, St. Rip it off featuring Lolita Va Voom is a queer neo-burlesque cabaret show with an international lineup. There’s plenty to see here, folks!

Tipsy Bear, Sep 11, 19:30, details

SEP 12

House of Spice

The monthly show at Gesundbrunnen’s cozy-yet-chic 800A has become a staple of the city’s queer cabaret scene yet still retains its underground vibe. Fierce, fearless and fabulous, no two shows are the same at House of Spice, where artists straddles the fine line between performance and provocation.

800A Bar & Cabaret, Sep 12, starts 20:00, details

SEP 25-OCT 4

Reflection: Desirée Nick and Guests

The well-known German TV personality is turning 70 and she’s celebrating with a cabaret and varieté show to match! Tracing the years of her career with plenty of jokes, jabs and personality, Desirée will be in the spotlight, supported by an international lineup of performers and acrobats.