From Off-Broadway to Regional Halls, Michelle Pearson’s Award-Winning Cabaret Hits The Road
Michelle Pearson’s award-winning cabaret SKINNY is heading across regional South Australia this May, bringing her hilarious and honest exploration of body image to audiences in Port Pirie, Cummins, Streaky Bay, Port Augusta and Burra.
You’ll take a step into the absurd world of shakes, shapewear and shifty surgeons, where society’s obsession with the ‘ideal’ body size takes centre stage.
SKINNY is a sharp, funny, and surprisingly moving show that tackles society’s obsession with body size. Pearson takes audiences on a journey through her own experiences with dieting, body image, and the relentless pressure to look a certain way, all delivered with her signature wit and vulnerability.
Raw, relatable, and ultimately uplifting, the show blends storytelling, comedy and music, backed by a four-piece cabaret band and featuring reimagined versions of songs including Beyoncé’s Pretty Hurts, Whitney Houston’s I Wanna Dance With Somebody, and Billy Joel’s We Didn’t Start The Fire.
After being named a top cabaret at the 2025 Adelaide Fringe, SKINNY received the Mental Health Commissioner’s Staging Change Award, recognising conversations about mental health through the arts and supporting this regional tour. The show has also recently been recognised with a Weekly Award at the 2026 Adelaide Fringe.
The show has drawn strong reviews internationally, with UK outlet Lothian Life writing, “Pearson’s voice is MEGA and one of the best I’ve heard.”
Country Arts SA executive programmer Sarah Knight says while the show tackles serious themes, it also delivers plenty of laughs.
“Michelle threads humour through heavier moments in a way that feels real,” she says.
“Even after seasons in Edinburgh, New York and around Australia, the show feels completely at home in a small regional hall.
“Her vocals, the sharp band and the honesty of the work create a mix that feels both world-class and personal.”
Pearson says touring the show in her home state is something she has always wanted to do.
“I wanted to take the show to regional South Australia because these conversations matter everywhere, not just in capital cities,” she says.
“Skinny has connected so deeply with people because it speaks to something so many of us live with but rarely talk about out loud.
“Audiences can expect a fearless and uplifting show that will make them feel a multitude of emotions, but mostly they will laugh!”
Skinny Cabaret Tour Dates in South Australia
SKINNY will visit Cummins on May 6, Streaky Bay on May 7, Port Pirie on May 9, Port Augusta on May 15 and Burra on May 16.
More information and tickets are available at countryarts.org.au/events/skinny
