Will the emcee and the Kit Kat Girls be able to distract audiences from the political upheaval of 1931 Berlin? Left to right: Kaitlin Uhland, Kenny Rosander and Katie Fuller

Sassy dance moves and energetic musical numbers will entertain audiences at TheatreUNCA’s staging of “Cabaret” October 12-14 and 20-21 in UNC Asheville’s Carol Belk Theatre. The engaging show kicks off UNC Asheville’s 2006-07 theater season.

The award-winning musical “Cabaret” follows the story of American writer Cliff Bradshaw as he visits Berlin, Germany in 1931. Bradshaw begins to find inspiration for his next novel from the many characters he meets in the Kit Kat Klub, a cabaret house. The story, which takes place during the rise of Nazi power, contrasts Germany’s harsh pre-war reality with the decadent night life found in the club. Starting the show with the legendary line “Welcome to the Cabaret,” the emcee shares Bradshaw’s story with the audience, while musical numbers comment on the action as it unfolds.

“Cabaret” is directed and choreographed by Danelle Cauley, UNC Asheville visiting assistant professor of drama. UNC Asheville Assistant Professor of Drama Robert Berls designed the sets. Costumes were designed by Assistant Professor Ida Bostain, and senior drama student Jessica Carson designed the lighting. The show has a cast of 22, including UNC Asheville students and faculty members.

The Cabaret offers legs, laughs and more in pre-war Berlin.

Curtain is 8 p.m. for all shows. Tickets are $15 general admission, $12 senior citizens and $10 students. Because of the intimate size of Carol Belk Theatre and the often heavy demand for tickets, advanced reservation is advised. Seating is on a first-come, first-serve basis. Tickets may be charged by phone by calling 828/232-2291 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. weekdays. Tickets are also available at the box office two hours before each curtain and online at www.unca.edu/drama. The box office is open for ticket pickup two hours prior to each performance.

For more information, call UNC Asheville’s Drama Department at 828/251-6610.