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Catbaret! NYC's Cat-Themed Variety Show

Press Release and Photos

About Catbaret!

Catbaret is NYC’s only cat-themed variety show, blending comedy, live music, and burlesque (aka purr-lesque). Hosted by Gemma Smith since 2018, Catbaret now calls Caveat on the Lower East Side home. With four themed shows each year — including Meowloween and Galentine’s Day Paw-ty — Catbaret brings cat lovers together for standout performances, audience moments, raffle prizes, and free cat ears in a warm, inclusive setting. The show also highlights adoptable cats through partnerships with Koneko Cat Café and Rescue NYC.

Catbaret's Mission

Catbaret brings cat lovers together through live entertainment — blending comedy, music, and burlesque to create inclusive, joyful experiences that celebrate creativity, community, and care for cats.

Community and Animal Welfare

Catbaret celebrates cats and nightlife while supporting the broader cat community. The show partners with Koneko Cat Café and Rescue NYC to spotlight adoptable cats and regularly donates ad space to the Cat Museum of New York City (CMNYC), a proposed institution dedicated to celebrating cats through art, culture, and education. Raffle proceeds from select shows benefit local cat rescues, reinforcing Catbaret’s mission to blend live entertainment with meaningful community impact.

About the Host

Gemma Smith is the creator and host of Catbaret and the podcast Tails and Tassels, which explores the intersection of nightlife performance, creativity, and cat companionship. She works in animal welfare and philanthropy and has previously served as a spokesperson for a national animal welfare nonprofit, appearing on live broadcasts (often alongside kittens) to raise awareness for rescue and adoption. By night, Smith produces and hosts live events that celebrate community, creativity, and cats.

FAQ

  • Where is the show held?

    •  Catbaret takes place at Caveat, located at 21A Clinton St, New York, NY 10002.

  • How can I get tickets for the event?

    • Tickets are available through Caveat’s website. Pricing varies by show and typically includes early bird, advance, door, and livestream options.​

  • Is there an age restriction for the event?

    • ​Yes. Caveat is a 21+ venue. All guests must be 21 or older to attend.

  • Will there be live cats at the show?

    • ​​No. While Catbaret celebrates cats and supports animal welfare organizations, no live cats are present at the event.

  • Can I watch the show online? 

    • Yes! A livestream ticket is available for $10 and includes access for up to 7 days after the show.

  • Is food or drink available?

    • ​Food and drinks are available for purchase through Caveat’s bar. Outside food or drink is not permitted, and there is no food or drink minimum.

  • Is Catbaret accessible?

    • Yes. Catbaret takes place at Caveat, which is a fully accessible venue. Accessible entry and seating are available, and an elevator is onsite — guests can access it by contacting staff at the door or calling the venue upon arrival. If you have specific accessibility needs, you can also reach out to Caveat directly at (212) 228-2100 for assistance.

  • Is Catbaret located near any cat friendly spots?

    • ​Yes! Caveat is located directly across the street from Koneko Cat Café, NYC’s popular Japanese-inspired cat café — a purr-fect stop before the show.

Press

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