CAST New Variety

CAST New Variety [Also known as CAST New Variety Ltd and CAST Presents New Variety Ltd] arranged cabaret shows, consisting of alternative comedians, musicians, poets, magicians and other variety acts, playing around London venues from 1982 onwards. Roland Muldoon first considered the idea in early 1980, but proceeded in earnest in 1982 due to a CAST member contracting hepatitis and the scheduled tour of ‘Hotel Sunshine’ having to be cancelled. The cabaret nights popularity led to CAST New Variety seeking a permanent home venue, eventually securing the Hackney Empire theatre in 1986. CAST New Variety essentially folds c.1990 when the introduction of Poll Tax in London saw reductions in arts grants. Essentially taken over by Hackney New Variety, but final assets not sold off until the end of 1992.

Note on names: CAST New Variety/CAST New Variety Ltd/CAST Presents New Variety are the same company, but will be referred to mainly as CAST New Variety for simplicity.