When the sun sets and the temperature drops, Adelaide Cabaret Festival turns up the heat with a sizzling lineup of late-night events guaranteed to chase away the winter chill. Whether you’re in the mood for sultry songs, cheeky games, or a birthday bash like no other, these after-dark delights promise laughter, music, mischief—and maybe even a little magic.

Frankie McNair and Isaac Haigh. Photo by Rebekah Halls.

Frankie McNair & Isaac Haigh – The Booth Variety Spectacular & Formal Apology Hour!
The year is 1969, and you’re in the studio audience for an episode of television that will go down in history as one of live TV's greatest disasters. Will the ‘Queen of Late Night’ hang onto her crown? Or will the fresh-faced competition claim the spotlight? Award-winning Melbourne International Comedy Festival Best Newcomers Frankie McNair and Isaac Haigh combine forces (and wigs) to deliver an immersive alt-comedy spectacular packed with Hollywood glam, songs, surprise guests and breakdowns.

Gillian Cosgriff - There is Nothing Like a Game 2025. Photo by Claudio Raschella.

Gillian Cosgriff – There Is Nothing Like A Game!
Get your game face on as your favourite musical comedian, Gillian Cosgriff, hosts a riotous evening of fun and not-so-friendly rivalries. It’s a battle of wits where you get to play a part in quizzes, puzzles, competitions and more. Interactivity is optional, but chaos is guaranteed in this think-fast frolic with special guest stars and live music to soundtrack the shenanigans.

Tina Del Twist. Photo by Joel Devereux.

Tina Del Twist – Tina Lets Loose
Known for her sultry, honey-dipped vocals and a wicked wit that could shred brie, Australia’s much-adored nightingale Tina del Twist invites you to slip into her late-night salon. Sit back, loosen your tie and fall under her spell as she takes you on a high-femme, high-fabulous, high-who-knows-wtf-will-happen tasting platter of glittering cabaret artists. Don’t miss your chance to experience this divine decadence with the belle of the Banquet Room, Tina del Twist.

Reuben Kaye. Photo by Kyahm Ross.

Reuben Kaye’s Happy Ending

If we’re gonna go down, we better go down swinging.  Join brutally funny and unapologetically loud Reuben Kaye, for the last (and loosest) hurrah as we farewell another year’s frivolity the only way we know how: packing into the Banquet Room and throwing a rager.  Mischief, music, mayhem, need we say more? With his bang-on three-piece band and a cavalcade of stars ready to share the stage, we’ve packed enough entertainment into one all-out evening to keep you satisfied til next year. Viva La Delicious Revolution!

These late-night festivities are where the real cabaret magic begins—and where winter warms up in the most unexpected ways.

More information from the 2026 Adelaide Cabaret Festival edition of WeekendPlus: