Viva Cabaret
Viva Cabaret was a late night comedy variety television show that aired on Channel 4 in the United Kingdom from 1993 to 1994.
| Viva Cabaret | |
|---|---|
| Genre | Comedy |
| Country of origin | United Kingdom |
| No. of series | 2 |
| No. of episodes | 13 |
| Production | |
| Running time | 45–50 mins |
| Release | |
| Original network | Channel 4 |
| Original release | 14 April 1993 – 24 June 1994 |
The series was filmed in a sound stage in West London, with the set designed to resemble a cabaret club.[1] The programme's house band included drummer Ray Weston (of Wishbone Ash)[2] and members of Pink Floyd's touring band.[3]
The first episode, which debuted on 14 April 1993, was hosted by Tom Jones.[4] Subsequent hosts included Julian Clary, Mark Lamarr, Mike McShane, Jools Holland, Mark Thomas, Eartha Kitt, Paul O'Grady as Lily Savage, and Lee Evans.[1] Competition for slots on the show was intense, with many stars of the British alternative comedy circuit hoping to make an appearance.[5] In addition to the show's British stars, regular international guests included Americans Greg Proops and Sandra Bernhard, and Australia's Doug Anthony All Stars.[3]
References
- Viva Cabaret! (1993–94), British Film Institute.
- Drummer Ray Weston, Martin Turner's Wishbone Ash.
- Ferguson, Tim (2013). Carry a Big Stick. Sydney: Hachette. ISBN 9780733629358.
- Rampton, James: TELEVISION / BRIEFING: A quiet night in on the town, The Independent, 14 April 1993.
- Simpson, Neil (2013). Paul O'Grady – The Biography. London: John Blake Publishing. ISBN 1843582414.