Venice Cabaret Theatre

June 14th was an exceptional gala opening for the Venice Cabaret Theatre. Playing to a packed house, standing room only, singers and musicians shared their talents to enthralled audiences. The crowd in return cheered as some danced and others relaxed at charming tables draped with cloth and lit by candles that danced in the darkened ballroom. Free beverages were enjoyed by all, and many treated themselves to yummy fruit and cheese platters or baklava that delighted their palates as they marveled at the re-creation of Paris’ own Moulin Rouge right here in Los Angeles. The Blankenship Ballet Studio, which stands majestic on its own, was transformed for the Gala event into an enchanting cutting edge cabaret theatre right here in Venice Beach where some of the finest talent lives.

The cabaret concept was developed, created and produced by Mark Blankenship and Lauri Reimer. The Venice Cabaret Theatre was born out of a desire to provide local talent with a refuge, a place to play, to express, to create….yet also allow the local community to participate in the experience and capture a glimpse of this unfettered talent.

This turn-of-the-century ballroom known as the Blankenship Ballet Studio, has already played a leading role in developing and promoting Ballet, Flamenco, Tango, all types of Music, Comedy, Poetry and Art in Venice. In just one year’s time, impresario Mark Blankenship is responsible for bringing this ballroom back to life. Built in 1905 by the Christian Science church, this beautiful venue was rarely used since 1937. In 2007 Mark Blankenship carefully renovated and restored it, creating the new home for the Blankenship Ballet Company of Venice, a Ballet Company featuring Cuban-trained dancers lead by Bertha Suarez Blankenship, who is the Prima Ballerina and Artistic Director of the Ballet Company.

The next Venice Cabaret Theatre graces us on Saturday, July 26th with another exceptional line-up of talent. Headlining the evening is Venice local. Stefani Valadez and her Ensemble - Enchanting, Spiritual, World Beat music with a Middle Eastern flavor; Richard Stekol featuring Nate Wood from Kneebody plays Acoustic folk rock & soul; Jane St. Clair is a sultry, jazzy vocalist and guitarist appearing with her band featuring Paul Litteral on trumpet; singer/songwriter Jodi Siegel – a soulful, bluesy singer/songwriter and guitarist, and Michael Mishaw - R&B, soul, singer/songwriter and keyboardist who currently performs with the Fifth Dimension. Singer/Songwriter/Comedienne, Kathy Leonardo will emcee the evening with her bawdy wit and boundless energy.

Don’t miss the 2nd Venice Cabaret Theatre. Witness the glory of this historic majestic ballroom. Once again, there will be complimentary refreshments and food available for purchase. Come to the Venice Cabaret Theatre at The Blankenship Ballet Studio Saturday, July 26th 132 Brooks Ave. (on the Corner of Main and Brooks at Abbot Kinney Blvd) in Venice. at 8:00 pm. $10.00 prepaid with reservation; $15.00 at the door. All major credit cards accepted. Call now 1(866) 922-5538. Or visit myspace.com/VeniceCabaretTheatre or www.BlankenshipBallet.com.