Journal Entries: A Cabaret by Matthew Navas

The Gibraltarian actor Matthew Navas will host an “intimate, candid evening” during which he’ll reflect on his creative journey and drama career so far. The event promises to give people a taste of the ups and downs of studying abroad through the lens of musical theatre. 

Matthew is currently based in Guildford, Surrey, where he’s studying at the Italia Conti drama school. He is about to enter the third year of his degree course. 

We caught up with Matthew to speak about his upcoming event

YGTV: What will the evening involve?

Matthew Navas: The evening will involve a relaxed environment where I will be recounting moments from the past two years, by reading them from the journal that I have kept over that time. These stories will be told with the help of songs from musical theatre. It will also have some audience interaction, so they will participate at times. 

YGTV: It’s very interesting that you’re calling it a ‘cabaret’—why is that?

Matthew Navas: I think the term cabaret best reflects what this is. A personal sharing of stories, where I open up and speak directly to the audience, without using a character. It is meant to be sincere yet also entertaining. 

YGTV: What has motivated you to come up with an event of this nature?

Matthew Navas: I wanted to create something that was truly my own. It’s the first time in my life that I feel like I need to use and be proud of my creativity and show people what I can do. It has also been a great challenge in many aspects. 

YGTV: Give us a flavour of the tales you’ll be telling (without spoilers, of course)…

Matthew Navas: There are tales about auditions for parts that go quite wrong. There are tales of beautiful dates I have been on, which have ended badly. There are honest tales of the brutal difficulties that come with doing this, loneliness and uncertainty to name a few. 

YGTV: Would you recommend the event to people in the drama world or anyone hoping to study the performing arts abroad?

Matthew Navas: I would definitely recommend this show for people who might be wanting to further their education or careers in a creative manner. Whilst it will explore the difficulties, I am aiming for it to end on a hopeful and positive note. 

Journal Entries: A Cabaret by Matthew Navas will take place at 8pm on Thursday 27th August at the Musicians Association of Gibraltar (MAG) Club at 14, Wellington Front.

Tickets are available via: https://www.buytickets.gi/events/journal-entries-a-cabaret-by-matthew-navas-1330