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Cabbage the Clown (Eliza) is an award-winning drag clown, performer and costume maker whose work blends clowning, drag, cabaret and theatre. After training in costume construction at the Central School of Speech and Drama and working behind the scenes in theatre, they found their artistic home through drag performance and clowning. Their work explores identity, gender, depression, queer culture and the absurd, combining heartfelt storytelling with chaotic comedy. Their solo show Cinema Drome has appeared at the Edinburgh Fringe, while Cabbage continues to perform across London’s drag, comedy and clown scenes.
Episode summary
In this episode of Variety, Cabbage the Clown joins us to talk about finding a creative identity through drag, clowning and performance. The conversation begins with childhood dance classes in Greater Manchester before moving through musical theatre, studying costume construction at Central School of Speech and Drama and working professionally in theatre wardrobe departments. Cabbage explains how discovering drag kings and theatrical clowning during university led to the creation of the Cabbage character, inspired by vulnerability, depression and teenage insecurity. Along the way, we discuss London’s drag scene, why drag kings remain underrepresented, costume design, Edinburgh Fringe, audience interaction and how performance can become a home for every creative passion.
In this episode:
- Growing up in Greater Manchester, dance classes and early performing experiences
- Musical theatre, Les Misérables and studying costume construction at Central School of Speech and Drama
- Working professionally in theatre wardrobe, costume supervision and design
- Discovering drag kings during university and creating the Cabbage the Clown character
- How clown training transforms insecurity into performance
- Drag kings, misogyny and representation within the drag industry
- Edinburgh Fringe, Cinema Drome and creating theatrical clown performances
- Why drag, clowning and comedy have become one creative hub
What is The Variety Show?
The Variety Show is a celebration of the extraordinary people who bring live performance to life. Each week, host Adam Sternberg sits down with a dazzling range of guests – from magicians to contortionists, gospel singers to tap dancers to uncover the real stories behind their craft. How do artists decide to dedicate their lives to performing? What inspires them, challenges them, and keeps them coming back to the stage? Through intimate conversations, Variety gives listeners a behind-the-curtain look at the journeys, passions, and influences that shape today’s performers. Whether you’re a fan of live entertainment, a lover of the arts, or simply curious about the paths less traveled, this podcast offers a fresh perspective on the world of performance.
If you have any comments about the podcast or are a performer who wants advice please do email info@thevarietyshowpodcast.co.uk