A fun, carefree night of cabaret by two exceptional artists
Presented by: Adelaide Festival Centre
Reviewed: 11 June, 2026
The Adelaide Cabaret Festival has been the birthplace of many incredible shows over the years. At this year’s festival, South Australian cabaret super-stars Libby O’Donovan and Michaela Burger have teamed up (for the first time ever!) to write Short. Judging from the audience’s reaction on opening night, this will not be the only time we see this show in future years, or the last we see of this duo working together.
For years, both Libby and Michaela have been the brunt of jokes and comments about their height and now they have joined forces and written this brilliant show that celebrates their vertically challenged lives and also highlights an array of incredible musical icons who share their height.
The laughs come thick and fast, the script is brilliantly constructed, and the way that Libby and Michaela work together would make you think they have been performing together for years. From the very opening song, Hello by Adele, the light-hearted and laughter-driven vibe of the show is set. Short is a brilliant example of what cabaret should be.
The musical numbers featured in Short come from artists for whom what they lack in height, make up for in the mark they’ve left on the music industry. A highlight of the night was when musical director and pianist Ciara Ferguson performed alongside Libby and Michaela in an acapella medley of songs all by short men in the entertainment industry. What an exquisite sound and vocal blend!
Ferguson led an exceptionally tight band that provided the perfect accompaniment for Libby and Michaela’s superb vocals. Alongside Ferguson on piano and backing vocals was Kyrie Anderson on drums, Tasha Stevens on electric and double bass and Sundy Mantis on guitar.
I would tell you to go and grab a ticket to Short at this year’s Cabaret Festival…but their season is now completely sold out — including the additional show they added due to popular demand!
Libby O’Donovan and Michaela Burger are exceptional performers. They both have the ability to sweep you away into the magical world of cabaret. Short is a fun and carefree night out — keep an eye out as I’m sure it will be back.
Reviewed by Ben Stefanoff
Photo credit: Claudio Raschella
Venue: Space Theatre, Adelaide Festival Centre
Season: 11 – 13 June 2026
Duration: 1 hour
Tickets: $64 – $69 (plus booking fee)
Bookings: https://cabaret.adelaidefestivalcentre.com.au/whats-on/libby-odonovan-michaela-burger-short
