Rob Madge, Hannah Dodd to Debut at KitKat Club
West End’s immersive Cabaret embraces fresh hosts for a thrilling run at Hippodrome Casino
Pratibha holds a master's degree in English from Madras University. A bookworm from a young age, she devours books and digital humanities to nourish her writing projects. Pratibha began her writing career in 2018 and has experience writing formal, informal, and technical content.
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In a thrilling West End announcement, acclaimed performer Rob Madge and rising star Hannah Dodd will make their highly anticipated debuts at the immersive KitKat Club LDN in just one week. The long-running adaptation of Cabaret returns to the iconic Hippodrome Casino in Leicester Square, promising a fresh take on 1930s Berlin courtesy of two of theatre’s fastest-rising talents.
Rob Madge Lands Dream Role
Olivier nominee Rob Madge, who captured audiences with their autobiographical show My Son’s a Queer (But What Can You Do?) at the Garrick Theatre earlier this year, will take on the legendary role of the Emcee. Madge’s solo play earned them accolades and a WhatsOnStage nomination for Best Performer in a Play, and now they’re poised to lead one of the West End’s most immersive spectacles. Madge celebrated the casting on Instagram, writing “DREAM ROLE ACTIVATED. I cannot quite believe it, but yes, I shall be your host (und sagen) at @kitkatclubldn this Summer.” They revealed that a casual quip backstage at The Stage Awards sparked an impromptu audition, culminating in a “beyond my wildest dreams” offer to join the team.
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Hannah Dodd To Star As Sally Bowles
Sharing the spotlight is Hannah Dodd, the screen actress best known for roles in Netflix’s The Last Letter from Your Lover and the popular period drama Bridgerton. Dodd steps into the role of Sally Bowles, following in the footsteps of Strictly Come Dancing star Oti Mabuse, who headlined last season’s sold-out run. While Dodd has been keeping rehearsal details under wraps on her own channels, industry insiders note she’s spent the past fortnight rigorous rehearsing with the cast, exploring the character’s playful defiance and emotional depth. Fans can expect Dodd to bring her signature charm and film-caliber nuance to the stage.
About Kitkat Club Ldn
KitKat Club LDN is an immersive reimagining of the classic musical Cabaret. Set within the seedy yet seductive walls of 1930s Berlin, the production invites audiences into an interactive nightclub environment filled with live music, daring choreography, and authentic period costume design. It first debuted in London in 2021 and quickly became known for its boundary-pushing experience—audiences even sip cocktails at candlelit tables while performers weave through the crowd. In addition to traditional performances of “Wilkommen,” “Mein Herr,” and “Money,” the creative team has introduced original segments to deepen the narrative.
What To Expect This Season
With opening night set for May 29 at the Hippodrome Casino, the production has already added extra dates through mid-June to meet skyrocketing demand. Audiences can anticipate high-energy ensemble numbers, sultry solos from Madge and Dodd, and a visceral blend of storytelling and song. The show’s live 12-piece band, led by musical director Francesca Covington, will deliver punchy jazz arrangements, while choreographer Alistair David brings a modern edge to classic dances. Costume designer Rae Smith has recreated the nightclub’s decadent wardrobe, from flapper dresses to tailored tuxedos, ensuring every scene dazzles.
To maintain the show’s edgy ambiance, audience members are advised to embrace the 1920s dress code: think feathered headbands, suspenders, and bold lipstick. A dedicated pop-up bar in the lobby serves themed cocktails such as the “Emcee’s Martini” and “Bowles’ Boozy Shake.” Selected performances will feature open captions, and a portion of ticket sales will support local arts education initiatives—ensuring that the next generation of West End talent has access to training and performance opportunities.
Tickets for the summer season go on sale today at kitkat.club, with an early-bird discount available for direct bookings. As the countdown ticks under one week, ticket holders are advised to arrive early and dress to impress—the immersive setting encourages audience members to embrace the Cabaret spirit and become part of the narrative. Bringing together bold performances, inventive design, and two of theatre’s most dynamic talents, the KitKat Club LDN return feels destined for standing ovations. Book now, raise a glass, and prepare to be transported to Berlin’s most notorious nightclub.
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