What you need for a cabaret evening

A cabaret evening needs more than a comedian and a room. You will need a clear stage setup, reliable sound, suitable lighting, seating, drinks, snacks and a coffee station for the interval or finish. This shopping list brings together the practical items that are easy to overlook, from microphone stands and extension cords to serving utensils and coat storage. Check quantities against your guest list before shopping, then allow time to chill drinks and test every cable before doors open.

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What to bring

Grouped the way you'd shop for it, with quantities.

Furniture

Tablesqty 8
Chairsqty 70
Buffet folding tableqty 3
Coat rackqty 2
Stoolsqty 4

Equipment

Stage sectionsqty 6
Active speakersqty 2
Wireless microphonesqty 2
Microphone standsqty 2
Mixer
Audio cablesqty 6
Extension cordsqty 3
Power stripsqty 6

Lighting

Stage spotlightsqty 4
Atmosphere lightsqty 8
Light standsqty 2

Tableware

Coffee cupsqty 80
Glassesqty 100
Platesqty 80
Pastry forksqty 80
Coffee spoonsqty 80

Kitchen

Coffee machinesqty 2
Kettlesqty 2
Thermos flasksqty 6
Coolersqty 4
Serving plattersqty 10
Serving spoonsqty 10
Pliersqty 6
Cutting boardsqty 2
Knivesqty 4

Decorations

Tableclothsqty 8
Stage curtainsqty 2
Flower arrangementsqty 6
Menusqty 8
Program leafletsqty 70
Name badgesqty 70
Tapeqty 4
Directional signsqty 6

Cleaning

Broomqty 2
Dustpan and brushqty 2
Mopqty 2
Bucketsqty 2
Waste binsqty 4

Catering

Groceries
- Coffee - 3 packs
- Decaf coffee - 1 pack
- Black tea - 2 boxes
- Herbal tea - 1 box
- Sugar - 2 packs
- Sweeteners - 2 boxes
- Semi-skimmed milk - 8 liters
- Oat milk - 2 liter
- Whipped cream - 4 cans
- Stirrers - 100 pieces
- Still water - 8 bottles
- Sparkling water - 8 bottles
- Cola - 6 bottles
- Cola Zero - 6 bottles
- Sinas - 4 bottles
- Apple juice - 4 packs
- Orange juice - 4 cartons
- Non-alcoholic beer - 24 bottles
- Pilsner - 36 bottles
- White wine - 6 bottles
- Red wine - 4 bottles
- Non-alcoholic wine - 2 bottles
- Apple pie - 6 pies
- Cream puffs - 80 pieces
- Mini cheese sandwiches - 40 pieces
- Ham mini sandwiches - 40 pieces
- Vegetarian mini sandwiches - 20 pieces
- Paprika chips - 4 bags
- Plain chips - 4 bags
- Cocktail nuts - 4 bags
- Cheese biscuits - 4 packs
- Cucumber - 4 pieces
- Cherry tomatoes - 4 trays
- Grapes - 3 kilos
- Cheese cubes - 3 kilo
- Hummus - 4 tubs
- Baguettes - 8 pieces
- Unsalted butter - 2 tubs
- Napkins - 300 pieces
- Paper towels - 6 rolls
- Toilet paper - 24 rolls
- Trash bags - 50 pieces
- Dish soap - 2 bottles
- All-purpose cleaner - 2 bottles
- Glass cleaner - 1 bottle
- Sponges - 10 pieces
- Paper towels - 6 rolls

Tips

Plan at least one chair per registered guest, then reserve a small number of stools only if your room layout requires flexible seating. Keep a clear route to the stage, buffet and cloakroom rather than filling every available space.
For drinks, allow two to three drinks per person for the first hour, plus water throughout the evening. Chill bottles and cans several hours ahead; coolers filled just before guests arrive will not cool a full stock quickly.
Set aside one glass, plate and pastry fork per guest, with roughly 10% extra for breakages and unexpected registrations. Coffee service also needs enough cups, spoons and serving space for guests who stay after the performance.
Sound problems are often caused by missing small items rather than the speakers. Test both wireless microphones, the mixer, audio cables, power strips and extension cords at least 60 minutes before opening the room.
Prepare the stage and lighting before setting out the buffet. Position spotlights so the comedian is visible without shining into the audience, and keep spare cable length secured away from walking routes.

Frequently asked questions

What drinks do I need for a cabaret evening?: Allow two to three drinks per person for the first hour, then add water for the full audience. Chill the main supply several hours before guests arrive and keep a reserve outside the serving area.
How much tableware should I buy for a cabaret evening?: Start with one glass, plate and pastry fork per registered guest, then add about 10% extra. For coffee, provide one cup and spoon per guest who is likely to use the coffee station, plus a small reserve.
When should I set up the sound equipment?: Connect and test the speakers, mixer, microphones and cables at least 60 minutes before doors open. Give yourself another 15 minutes if the room or equipment is unfamiliar.
What do people forget for a cabaret evening?: Commonly missed items include microphone stands, extension cords, power strips, coat storage and serving utensils. Check these at least one day before the event, not while guests are arriving.

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