Cabaret Performer Fifi Fantôme, Photo Credit: Markus Vicari

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.

Nocturnelle by Dita Von Teese

Dita von Teese at the 2010 San Remo Song Festival, photo credit: IMAGO/PicturePerfect

The ‘queen of burlesque’ arrives in Berlin with her latest show Nocturnelle, inspired by classic Hollywood motifs, magicians and magic. If you’re not familiar with Von Teese, she specialises in highly stylised artistic ‘stripscapes’ that blend sensuality and exquisite costuming. Behind the glamour, her mission is a simple one: “put the tease back into striptease”. 

Admiralspalast, Apr 01, starts 20:00, details

The Beauty Fool by Cabaret Cravache

Cabaret Cravache, photo creidt: Franziska Brodhun

Ushering in spring on the eve of the long Easter weekend is the Cabaret Cravache crew. This is one for all the tricksters, fools, jesters and jezebels. It’s a wonderfully wicked and indulgent affair that’s one large dose of provocative fun. Leave your shame at home and prepare for a night of hijinks and chutzpah.

Ballhaus Berlin, Apr 02, starts 18:30, details

BAEFOONERY by Rica Shay

Roll up, roll up, the queerest clowns are back in town. Led by their unfathomable ringleader Rica Shay, this “sex positive weirdo, rapper, clown, drag entertainer and sensitive teddy bear” has been a Tipsy Bear stalwart since the early days and always puts on one of the best shows in town. Grab your red nose and join!

Tipsy Bear, Apr 11, starts 19:30, details

Anna Mateur and the Beuys

This one hits that sweet spot between comedy, cabaret and good ol’ fashioned entertainment. Mateur is fortunate enough to possess a voice that resembles Nina Hagen and Janis Joplin; whether she’ll use it that way or not is another matter entirely. She’s known to grunt, snort and growl her way through songs. Come on down and see for yourself.

Bar jeder Vernunft, Apr 14, starts 20:00, details

NOCTURNE by Velvet Creepers

The Velvet Creepers, photo credit: Andrey Kezzyn

The Velvet Creepers’ new circus show celebrates the creatures of the night in all their strange and fantastical forms. Described as “Weimar cabaret on acid meets Berlin queer club culture”, their shows are always a delicious mix of hedonism and heart-stopping turns. It’s a night where anything can happen – and usually does.

Ballhaus Berlin, Apr 17, starts 19:00, details

The Sublime Kabarett

Charlie Bouquet of The Sublime Kabarett, photo credit: Darren Black

Set in a former women’s prison and hosted by neo-burlesque performer Charlie Bouquet, this kink-friendly, sensual showdown is a feast for all the senses. If you’re craving burlesque, drag, comedy and live music, then it’s time to cha-cha back behind bars, baby.

The Knast, Apr 24, starts 20:00, details

Boheme Sauvage 20th Anniversary

Photo Creidt: Heinrich von Schimmer

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!

Ballhaus Berlin, May 02, starts 21:00, details

The Sinners Saloon

Whether you’re a saint or a sinner, this filthy Sunday burlesque and cabaret show opens its doors for all to confess. Bring your sins and save your souls with master of disaster DJ Don Rogall and a lineup of the finest talent this side of hell. You’ve been warned.

Crack Bellmer, May 10, starts 19:00, details