Adam Lambert confronts audience over inappropriate laughter in Cabaret

In the United States, Adam Lambert is currently starring in the Broadway revival of 'Cabaret' at the Kit Kat Club. The production has sparked discussions around its handling of antisemitic themes, particularly concerning a controversial line sung by the Emcee character. Joel Grey, who portrayed the Emcee in the original production, has written about how audience reactions to this line have changed over the decades, noting that what was once perceived as shocking and offensive is now occasionally met with laughter. Just weeks ago, during a performance, Lambert was compelled to address inappropriate laughter from audience members during a particularly sensitive moment in the show. Specifically, some attendees reacted to the line 'If you could see her through my eyes, she wouldn’t look Jewish at all' with laughter, which was disheartening for both Lambert and those who take the serious themes of the production to heart. Witnesses noted that Lambert reacted strongly, giving one audience member a pointed stare to signal that such reactions were unacceptable. This incident reflects a broader concern within the theater community about the normalization of antisemitic remarks, which are considered especially damaging given the historical context of the musical’s themes. The cultural sensitivity towards antisemitism has shifted over time, and many in the theater world are alarmed by the ramifications of this change, particularly as productions like 'Cabaret,' which depict the rise of prejudice, remain relevant today. As the musical continues its run, the interactions between cast and audience will draw attention to how society grapples with themes of bigotry in a contemporary setting, emphasizing the importance of responsible engagement with art that highlights the darker aspects of history.