Homecoming @ Space Theatre, Adelaide 19/6/2026

Hosted by Alex De Porteous at the intimate Space Theatre, Homecoming felt like a school reunion like no other.

Now in its sixteenth year, Adelaide Cabaret Festival’s Class of Cabaret was designed to showcase the talent of high schoolers on stage. Conceived by Artistic Director David Campbell, the initiative has helped launch the careers of many artists who have ultimately achieved industry success. Homecoming invited four Class of Cabaret graduates back to showcase their talent.

From the moment charismatic De Porteous, dazzling in pink sequins, opened the show with Take the Long Way Home, the depth of talent was apparent. As the hour of entertainment continued, each new performer raised the bar.

Local performer, Scarlett Anthony, was the first to step into the spotlight. Currently starring in Heathers the Musical, she shared her personal history with cabaret/ musicals before treating us to a two-song performance. One Perfect Moment from Bring It On: The Musical soared with positivity, while I Say No from Heathers the Musical was fiery and rebellious.

Mat Monti followed with the kind of seamless storytelling that makes fans of musical theatre giddy with excitement. Stars and the Moon from Songs for a New World and It All Fades Away from The Bridges of Madison County were a reminder that prevailing moments can arrive quietly and unexpectedly.

Then came Jemma Allen. Dressed as a cat, they rewrote the definition of delightful with their set. Their rendition of Nobody Does It Like Me was a masterclass in comedic confidence. But it was their unhinged original number from a yet-to-be-created production of Cat: The Musical, a one-person reimagining of Cats, that stole the show. Add a breathless four-minute dance break, and Jemma’s set became the night’s glorious wildcard entry.

The final special guest, Jego Loreto, turned back time with a classic R’n’B showcase. Moving effortlessly between Boyz II Men’s End of the Road, Stevie Wonder’s Superstition and Alicia Keys’ If I Ain’t Got You, he had everyone singing along, reminiscing of days of yore.

Throughout it all, De Porteous sat at the heart of the show, guiding the journey with warmth and wit. Her closing performance of Wig in a Box (Hedwig and the Angry Inch) was an appropriate send-off.

Homecoming was everything correct about cabaret. We left feeling a little lighter, a little happier and very much grateful to be part of Adelaide’s wonderfully talented cabaret family.

Adelaide Festival Cabaret Review By Anita Kertes

Photo Credit: Claudio Raschella