From Aisle to Stage: Boston’s Jacque’s Cabaret to Host ‘Market Basket’ Themed Drag and Burlesque Show

BOSTON — Forget the checkout lines and the quest for the perfect rotisserie chicken; this September, one of New England’s most beloved institutions is getting a glittering, high-energy makeover on the cabaret stage.

On Wednesday, Sept. 23, Boston’s historic Jacque’s Cabaret (79 Broadway St.) will transform into a tribute to the grocery chain that defines the region. The event, aptly titled “Market Rate,” promises an evening of drag, burlesque, and self-deprecating humor centered on the quirks of the iconic supermarket.

A Niche Tribute to New England Culture

The idea for the show began as a late-night joke among friends before spiraling into a full-scale theatrical production. According to the show’s co-organizer and producer, known simply as Gnat, the spectacle taps into a specific, complicated affection that locals feel toward their home state.

“The thing about New Englanders is that they love New England, and love to hate it, and hate to love it,” Gnat explained. “You bring in a niche reference, and folks immediately connect to that representation.”

Gnat pointed to the immense popularity of Noah Kahan’s recent Fenway Park performances as evidence that regional pride, when framed through local landmarks and culture, resonates deeply with Boston audiences. The upcoming show follows in the footsteps of other locally inspired events at Jacque’s, including the 2025 hit “MBTGay: A Transit Drag Show.”

What to Expect

The two-hour production will feature a curated roster of talent selected from a pool of roughly 60 hopefuls. The final cast includes standout performances from comedian Andi Van Dyke and burlesque artist Stabitha Christie.

Attendees can look forward to a mix of drag, live singing, and a unique homage to the grocery store’s deli counter: a high-stakes, small rotisserie chicken-eating competition. To set the mood, the pre-show playlist will be packed with the same “yacht rock” hits and classic tunes often heard playing over the speakers while navigating the store’s aisles.

Beyond the Entertainment

While the show promises plenty of laughs, the organizers are pairing the campy fun with a serious commitment to community support. The event will serve as a fundraiser for local food insecurity, with the venue accepting monetary donations for Haley House, the West Roxbury Food Pantry, and the Allston-Brighton Food Pantry throughout both performances.

The show arrives at a time when the grocery chain itself is navigating headlines regarding the recent ousting of its longtime CEO by the board of directors. While representatives for Market Basket declined to comment on the cabaret production, the show remains a testament to the cultural footprint the brand has left on the region.

The “Market Rate” performance is restricted to those 21 and older. For those hoping to catch the spectacle, tickets are currently available via Market Rate, and organizers suggest acting fast, as the unique event is expected to draw a crowd eager for a “more-for-your-dollar” dose of local theater.