Mel Gordon and Joanna Ebenstein (Editor)Strange Attractor Press(2024) With a Masters in death, Religion and Culture under my hat, it was inevitable that I had to get my hands on this book with its evocative title and the image of a skeleton relaxing lazily on its cover. It did not disappoint.
Cabarets of Death is the work of the late cultural historian Mel Gordon and it’s editor, Joanna Ebenstein. Gordon extensively researched and collected memorabilia regarding cabaret clubs, restaurants and drinking establishments which had a penchant for the theatrical, all surrounding the theme of death and the macabre. The title is a bit of a misnomer, as in addition to the three Paris based establishments included in the book – all in Monmartre - there are also mention of three other Cabarets in Berlin, Brussels and Ohio. Between the years of 1892 – 1954, these venues drew tourists and captivated audiences with their display of grotesque images of Hell, Heaven and Purgatory and thrilled those who entered its doors with exhibits of nudity and spectacle.
The introductory chapter and forewords help put the Cabarets in context and the book is beautifully illustrated with contemporary photographs, postcards and sketches collected by Gordon over the years. The images and text bring the venues to life as we learn about the spooky décor, the death-themed drinks and food offered, the staff’s in-character interaction with the staff, the illusions created and the audience participation, with each cabaret given its own chapter to devour.
I loved this book: it gives a fascinating glimpse of a darker cultural history that without Gordon’s doggedness would have been lost. It doesn’t take long to read and is easily digestible. I thoroughly recommend this little gem!!!!
Thank you to Stranger Attractor Press and Joanna Ebenstein for sending me a copy to review.
