The 22nd Dolly Wiggler Cabaret

While Shakespeare’s Soothsayer warns Caesar to “Beware the Ides of March…”, the Dolly Wiggler Cabaret offers a different prophecy for our time: Embrace the chaos! Traditionally, the Ides of March—assumed to fall on March 15—signals foreboding, treachery, and the fall of Caesar. But this weekend of ancient warnings also happens to be the same weekend that Dolly Wiggler Cabaret invites you to revel in the absurd, the daring, and the delightfully unexpected. Now in its 24th edition, this legendary underground event is a theatrical coup, where emerging and seasoned artists unite to create performances that are bold, surreal, and unforgettable.

Mooky — hosts the Dolly Wiggler Cabaret. Photo: Olivia Rutherford

Mooky: The Soothsayer, The Instigator, The Compère

What’s a cabaret without a master of ceremonies—someone to conduct the madness and summon the spectacle? Stepping into this role once again is none other than local legend Mooky, returning as her alter ego Gloria Rivard, the sometimes ribald but always entertaining host of Dolly Wiggler.

A multifaceted artist and local success story, Mooky has captivated audiences far beyond Calgary, taking her talents to the grand stages of Cirque du Soleil and dazzling crowds across the European cabaret circuit. With her signature wit, boundless energy, and knack for the unexpected, she is the perfect ringleader for a night of bold, bizarre, and breathtaking performances.

So, what exactly is a Dolly Wiggler? Its Ronnie Burkett’s term for his art of puppeteering.

“It’s a high-energy event where artists push the boundaries of puppetry and mask work,” Mooky explains. “It’s a space where creativity knows no limits—where an artist can truly experiment, explore, and yes, even fail. It’s all part of it, the process of developing your artistic vision. It’s a rare, joyful space in these times.”

For Mooky, one of the most unforgettable Dolly Wiggler Cabarets happened in mid-March the year legendary theatre artist Michael Green passed away. In the wake of his loss, the arts community rallied together in an extraordinary way.

“It was a time of grief, but also an incredible outpouring of love and support. Artists, friends, and colleagues from all over gathered, and that night, the Dolly Wiggler became more than just a show—it was a reminder of why we create, why we need each other,” she recalls. “That cabaret was one of the most wonderful experiences of my life. It truly highlighted the need for community.”

Mooky may be the MC of this mid-March surrealist cabaret, but there’s a method to the madness of Dolly Wiggler, the joy of celebration.

“With everything going on in the world, a common space like this is cherished. A space for the oddballs—like me, like all of us. It’s needed.,  It’s fun. It’s brave, being together, it’s everything, this is a home to so many of us.”

Join Mooky as she foretells the magic and orchestrates the mischief at the 24th Dolly Wiggler Cabaret. One thing’s for sure — this will be a night to remember, no betrayal necessary!

A Month of Puppetry and Play

Beyond the Dolly Wiggler Cabaret, March is an electrifying time for the Festival of Animated Objects.  From hands-on workshops to interactive performances, screenings, and exhibitions, the city will be buzzing with opportunities to experience the magic of masks, puppets, and animated objects. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-timer, there’s no betrayal in store—just pure, distilled innovative art.     

Don’t miss your chance to experience Mooky’s “Gloria” and maybe have some fun during them nasty old ides.