Portland Cabaret Band
Portland Cabaret Band performs European Cabaret, Vintage Americana, Balkan Belly Dance, Neo-Classical Opera, and Old World Yiddish Theater. Described by the Washington Post as “a band of ceaseless charisma, boundless energy, impeccable musicianship and more than a little touch of both the naughty and exotic,” this Bohemian cabaret ensemble delivers electrifying performances for audiences of all ages.
About Portland Cabaret Band
Formed in 2002 by a European-trained opera singer and composer, the Portland Cabaret Band redefines the live music experience. Their performances combine operatic virtuosity, theatrical storytelling, and eclectic musical influences—from Parisian hot jazz and tangos to Ukrainian folk-punk and klezmer. This band liberates opera from traditional confines, presenting it with humor, flair, and a visceral connection to the audience.
Their repertoire often explores riverboat gambling queens, Turkish belly dancers, and tributes to icons like Marlene Dietrich. The ensemble’s core lineup includes vocalists (featuring operatic tenor voices), accordion, tenor saxophone, clarinet, cello, stand-up bass, and drums. They frequently collaborate with guest performers and dancers to create an immersive experience that blends music, theater, and dance.
Portland Cabaret Band Style
The Portland Cabaret Band’s musical style is a rich tapestry of influences. Drawing from Kurt Weill, Duke Ellington, and Edith Piaf, their performances combine absurdist humor, old-world charm, and modern theatrical energy. With lusty voices singing in 13 languages, sparkling lyrics, and a gritty Vagabond edge, this ensemble reinvents opera for contemporary audiences.
Every performance is a celebration of musical diversity, presenting jazz, swing, tangos, klezmer, Balkan rhythms, and original compositions. The band brings theatrical storytelling to every stage, creating a cabaret experience where audiences feel part of the spectacle.
Notable Performances & Collaborations
Portland Cabaret Band has performed across the USA and Europe, gaining recognition from NPR, Jazziz Magazine, and the Washington Post. They have shared stages with acclaimed artists and ensembles such as:
- Pink Martini
- Devotchka
- The Decembrists
- Balkan Beat Box
- The Cherry Poppin’ Daddies
- Oregon Symphony
Their live shows are legendary for blending traditional opera with theatrical cabaret, offering audiences a unique journey through music, history, and culture.
Albums & Recordings
The Portland Cabaret Band has released four full-length albums, each showcasing the ensemble’s eclectic style, theatrical storytelling, and virtuosic musicianship. From classical reinterpretations to original compositions, their discography captures the energy and charisma of their live performances, making their recordings a must-have for cabaret enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Why Book Portland Cabaret Band?
Booking Portland Cabaret Band guarantees an unforgettable live performance experience. Perfect for corporate events, festivals, private parties, and theaters, their shows combine:
- Operatic vocals and instrumental mastery
- Theatrical flair and stage storytelling
- Eclectic musical influences from around the world
- Immersive audience engagement
- Customizable performances for your venue or event
FAQ - Portland Cabaret Band
- What type of music does Portland Cabaret Band play?
- The band plays European Cabaret, Vintage Americana, Balkan Belly Dance, Neo-Classical Opera, klezmer, jazz, swing, and original compositions, blending theatrical performance with diverse musical influences.
- Where can I see Portland Cabaret Band perform?
- They perform at theaters, music festivals, corporate events, and private parties across Portland, the USA, and Europe. Check their event schedule for upcoming shows.
- Can the band perform custom shows for events?
- Yes, Portland Cabaret Band customizes their performances to fit your venue, theme, or event type, including corporate events, weddings, and private parties.
- How do I book Portland Cabaret Band?
- You can contact Best Entertainment Inc at booking@bestliveentertainment.com or call 1-888-510-3970 to inquire about availability and pricing.
- Is Portland Cabaret Band suitable for all ages?
- Yes, the band’s performances offer a mix of humor, theatrics, and musical sophistication that can be enjoyed by both younger and older audiences, though some shows may contain mature themes.
Google Map - Portland Venues
Contact Portland Cabaret Band
For bookings, inquiries, or more information about live performances, reach out to Best Entertainment Inc:
Email: booking@bestliveentertainment.com
Phone: 1-888-510-3970







“The band utilizes a strange combination of theatrics, comedy, dance, incredible musical talent and, of course, what band is complete without a little burlesque dancing? On Friday, November 6th, they shocked and awed the audience at the Capilano Performing Arts Theatre with their antics, which included speaking gibberish to each other between songs, and one of the band members pulling a set of false teeth out of her bra. Music and drama compete in Vagabond Opera, but the real wonder behind the scenes of the band is the secret ingredient of both these elements are improvisation. ” – Krissi Bucholtz, The Capilano Courier
“… They grab your attention from the minute they take the stage and woo you for the rest of the evening. I don’t know how you can watch them and not have a good time. They exude such constant, positive energy I get winded just watching them.” – Sepia Chord, Seattle International Cabaret Festival
“This band has restored my faith in the wonderment of live music. We’ve been bombarded by homogenized, over-produced, cog-rock and other manifestations of mass marketed melodic refuse for so long that we can truly appreciate the talents of a cabaret act with a well-refined wit, stand-out musicianship and the ability to earn applause without flaunting tits and ass every two minutes in order to keep our attention.” – What Weekly
Somewhere in the Pacific Northwest, there run two rivers, one of vodka and one of absinthe. Not found on any maps, they are known only to five men and one woman.. Fusing klezmer with sounds of the Balkans and the Rom, along with a peppering of belly dance, opera, and tango, these neo-cabaret fire starters roll out a rabble-rousing vision of globalization, 1920s-style. – Todd Lavoie, SF Bay Guardian