The musical explores the growing political unrest and hostility towards Jewish people, with a bit of sex and drag to boot. In Hart House’s re-imagined production, directed by prominent Canadian theatre actor Adam Brazier, the iconic character of Sally Bowles (most recognizably portrayed by Liza Minelli in the 1972 film version) will be played by Newmarket native Courtney Lamanna.

A recent Randolph Academy graduate, Lamanna has always had a passion for the arts. She knew her home was on the stage since starting music theatre classes at the age of seven. “I always knew I’d be doing something creative. I toyed with journalism for a bit; but when it came time to make my career choice, I really couldn’t see myself doing anything else [than theatre]. And I still can’t, really,” Lamanna said.

With the way things are going, she won’t have to imagine another career. Having wrapped up her leading role in the Lower Ossington Theatre’s production of Spring Awakening, Lamanna is grateful for her luck in casting so soon after leaving school. “I feel very fortunate to a) have had two jobs right out of school, and b) to be working--especially as a lead--with Adam [Brazier]; someone who is on the edge of everything that’s happening in Toronto. He’s a great mentor.”

Director Adam Brazier has never seen the film version of the musical. He aims to bring audiences a fresh perspective on a classic that could otherwise become as easy to caricature as Liza’s eyelashes. “When it was written it was very shocking and risqué at the time, but to our sensibility now, it isn’t necessarily. So I think his aim is to make it have that same effect, to be able to affect people in the same way that was intended, but for today’s audience,” Lamanna said.

This means there could be some surprises for those expecting a run-of-the-mill production. Lamanna explained that the production has “amped up a lot of the sex and violence,” but assures us that it is tasteful and effective. “There are some things that are just so hard to watch, it’s very moving. Adam is making it really relevant,” added Lamanna.

One of two assistant stage managers for the production, recent University of Toronto graduate Victoria Wang, is excited for the less conventional tone the production will take on from a technical perspective. “It’s not one of those shows where you have a billion props and quick changes. The way Adam’s approached all that stuff is much more creative,” Wang said.

As for Lamanna’s turn as the alternately unstoppable and insecure Sally, one can only speculate what her spin on the character will be, but it will certainly be her own. Humble, candid, and petite in person, Lamanna assessed the biggest challenge to portraying the larger-than-life character with a healthy dose of self-deprecation. “I guess what’s been the biggest struggle is believing that someone would cast me in this part. It’s such a big, enormous, intimidating role, and it’s so coveted; it’s hard to get over that,” she said.

With a talented lead, Brazier’s audacious vision, and a standout cast comprised largely of Toronto talent, it seems there may be an encore in store for this Cabaret.

Playing January 13-25, Hart House Theatre
Student Tickets $15, $10 Wednesday nights
Directed by Adam Brazier