Orville Peck is making waves on Broadway with his portrayal of the Emcee in the current revival of “Cabaret” at the Kit Kat Club. Not only is this role a departure from his identity as a mysterious country singer-songwriter, who rarely appears in public without a mask, but it also marks a significant milestone in his artistic journey. Peck is fulfilling a lifelong dream by taking on this challenging character, embodying the dark charm of the Emcee while engaging audiences in a deeply thought-provoking narrative.
Peck’s interest in performing began in his South African childhood, where he participated in musicals before seeking opportunities in acting throughout Canada and the U.K. After adopting his artistic persona, he released his acclaimed debut album “Pony” in 2019, receiving a Grammy nomination for Best New Artist. His return to the stage for “Cabaret” is a fulfillment of a long-held aspiration, as he recalls being inspired by the film featuring Joel Grey and Liza Minnelli at the age of 14.
Taking over the iconic role from previous Emcees Eddie Redmayne and Adam Lambert, Peck acknowledges the demanding nature of performing eight shows a week. The character’s arc, illustrating the rise of fascism in 1930s Berlin through the lens of a nightclub, resonates deeply with contemporary themes about the fragility of freedom and the rights of marginalized groups. Peck mentions the parallels between the show’s historical context and the current political landscape, emphasizing the importance of recognizing how easily hard-won freedoms can be eroded.
His performance captures a wide range of reactions from the audience, encompassing both laughter and sorrow—a testament to the show’s ability to provoke thought and emotion. Peck aims to embody a multifaceted character who makes morally complex decisions, challenging himself to portray the Emcee’s beliefs authentically, even those that starkly contrast with his own values.
As a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, Peck brings a personal understanding to the sensitive material. He reflects on how his background shapes his performance and interpretation of the role, allowing him to confront themes of repression and identity. The shared dedication among the cast speaks volumes, as they celebrate their unique individuality while also acknowledging the collective strength of the queer community.
With his ambitions renewed through this Broadway experience, Peck expresses interest in pursuing further theatrical roles, mentioning a connection to the character of Hades in “Hadestown” as a potential future dream role. His excitement about Broadway is palpable, yet he remains grounded in his identity as a country music artist.
Peck continues to captivate audiences at the August Wilson Theatre, where “Cabaret” runs through July 20. As he embraces his journey on Broadway, his performance serves as a powerful reminder of the arts’ ability to reflect and challenge societal norms, bringing awareness to issues of identity and freedom.