New theatre company brings vaudeville-style back to forefront

With the opening of production company Crescent Moon Cabaret, producer Stephanie Kincade is bringing old-school back.

It will focus on a contemporary take on the 20^th century Vaudeville Reviews, with the first show slated for October 19.

“It feels pretty unreal to get this going. It’s been on the back-burner for a while,” said Kincade. “I began talking about this before COVID hit, but having no live events put a damper on that.”

But a few months ago, they began doing a show with a local producer who does burlesque, and realized now was the perfect time. They jumped in feet first.

“We’re inspired by that classic vaudeville. I wanted to contemporize those shows, and harken back to having performers from all disciplines coming together,” they said.

“I see it happening a bit in the city, but not to this extent. I just love bringing different types of art into one place.”

The name of the company, Crescent Moon, is a send-up of the exact artistry Kincade wants to emulate and send up.

“There are so many classic images of pin-ups and vaudeville posters. There’s always this large crescent moon with someone draped over it. The motif comes up a lot, and it felt right to bring that into the now,” they said.

They’re excited about the incredible line-up they’ve managed together, which features Misha Bakshi as host, Honey De Mele, Vincenzo Ravina, Vanessa Furlong, Vincent St. Grace, Cookie Cunningham, Miss Shapen, and out-of-town guest Lola La Colombe.

“I’m thrilled to have these people on-board. There’s this music hall variety style, and that feel is still there with contemporary artists. They’re not going to do slapstick if it’s not their thing. We wanted people to be able to do what they love,” they said.

“Our host (Misha Bakshi) is going to bring that old-school announcer feel and embody a character. They’re an amazing performer and are putting together a great character. We have burlesque, drag, someone trained in mime, clown and contortions, and a circus artist who does stilts work.”

Kincade has worked hard to make the show and pricing as accessible as possible, but says they still have a long way to go.

“You have to start somewhere. We have Pay What You Can pricing, and I want to make sure there are no barriers. Price can absolutely be an issue. I’d rather have people in seats than people who want to experience shows but can’t financially go,” they said.

“We also have a livestream of the show. During COVID, many who couldn’t go to shows before were suddenly able to see them, and I wanted to carry that forward. We are wheelchair accessible in the space. We don’t have an ASL interpreter though, but I want one in the future. I’m working through it all.”

The October 19 show will be at the Bus Stop Theatre, a place that holds a special place in Kincade’s heart.

“I’m really excited to be there. I have a long-standing on-and-off history of being involved there. I watched their process renovating to get where they are, and I’m happy,” they said. “The theatre kid in me grew up there, and to see the renovations and how gorgeous it is, I wanted to support that.”

Overall, Kincade says the arts community has been wholly supportive of the Crescent Moon endeavour, from performers wanting to get involved to people offering advice.

“Everyone has been there. When I first announced this, people who produce their own shows in the community were there for me. That says something about Halifax – when other people produce shows too but we all want each other to succeed,” they said.

“I’m not sure if us all wanting to work together is an indication of the interest of a larger audience, but I’ve seen an outpouring of affection from the arts community.”

At the end of the day, Kincade just hopes people get enjoyment and happiness from everything Crescent Moon offers.

“I really want to improve on all levels with these shows. I want to hear from people about representation, accessibility, or types of performances they want to see. I want this to be an amazing thing,” they said. “I want to reach so many communities with these acts, and want people to feel comfortable engaging with me.”

The Contemporary Vaudeville Revue will be October 19, at the Bus Stop Theatre (2203 Gottingen Street). Doors open at 7:30 p.m. and the show starts at 8:00 p.m.

Tickets are tiered, with $15 underwaged, artist or student tickets, $20 advanced, and $25 at the door. Livestream tickets are also available. Check Eventbrite for tickets.