Avanspettacolo: Cabaret Dinner Show in Venice

A Closer Look at the Avanspettacolo Cabaret Dinner Show in Venice

If you’re visiting Venice and want to experience something beyond the usual sightseeing, this cabaret dinner show at Avanspettacolo offers a surprisingly entertaining evening. It’s a great way to enjoy a bit of Italy’s nightlife, with a mix of impressive performances and tasty food, all set in a grand, atmospheric venue just outside Venice.

We love the diversity of entertainment—from magic shows to musical performances—and the option to choose among different menus that cater to meat-eaters, seafood lovers, or vegetarians. Plus, the inclusion of a welcome cocktail definitely sets a festive tone. However, one thing to keep in mind is the location—it’s about 10 minutes from Venice itself, which means some planning around transportation might be necessary, especially if you’re relying on taxis or shuttle services.

This experience really suits those looking for a fun, relaxed night out that combines good food with evening entertainment. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy cabaret styles, live performances, and a touch of glamour. That said, if you’re after an authentically Venetian cultural showcase or are traveling with very young children, this might not be the perfect fit.

Key Points

• Location: Just outside Venice, around 10 minutes away; plan your transportation accordingly.
• Entertainment: A mix of magic, musical acts, and dance performances in a luxurious theatre hall.
• Dining: Three menu options—meat, seafood, or vegetarian—paired with Italian wine and a welcome cocktail.
• Duration: About 4 hours, starting at 8 pm, with the show wrapping up late in the evening.
• Price: Around $136.37 per person, which includes dinner, drinks, and entertainment—good value considering the quality of the show.
• Accessibility: Free parking and a shuttle service back to the station make logistics easier, but check if transfer costs apply depending on your starting point.

The Experience in Detail

The Setting and Atmosphere

The venue itself is quite spectacular. Set in a sumptuous theatre hall decorated with antique statues, elegant drapery, and Venetian chandeliers, it transports you into an old-world, glamorous era. The ambiance feels thoughtfully curated to evoke a sense of special occasion, and the venue’s interior ensures that even if you’re not in Venice’s historic center, you’re still immersed in an elegant environment.

The Welcome Cocktail and Pre-Show Vibes

From 8 pm, guests are invited to the foyer for a welcome cocktail—a choice of Prosecco or a soft drink—while a talented master pianist plays classical tunes. We appreciated this laid-back start, giving everyone time to settle in and get into the mood for the evening. It’s a nice touch that adds a sense of occasion and sophistication.

The Dinner Experience

The dinner itself is served as a gala menu, with three options to suit different tastes. Whether you prefer meat, seafood, or vegetarian dishes, the meals are described as delicious, and the inclusion of wine, water, and coffee makes it feel like a complete dining experience. From the reviews, we see that the food is generally well-liked, with some describing it as “copious” and “really good.” It’s important to note that the dinner is served during the show, so you’ll want to arrive hungry and ready to enjoy a full meal.

Guests have highlighted the value for money—considering the quality of the food, the inclusion of drinks, and the entertainment, many say it’s worth the ticket price. Some reviews mention the “excellent” wine selection and tasty tapas-style starters, which set the tone for a satisfying meal.

The Grand Show

The highlight, of course, is the cabaret show. The hall’s design enhances the experience, making it feel intimate yet grand. Expect a mixture of magic acts, musical performances, and acrobatic contortionists—a lively, colorful spectacle suitable for all ages, as the show is described as appropriate for everyone. One reviewer pointed out that while it’s a tourist-oriented show, the performers are talented, and the acts are varied and engaging.

The reviews reveal that many guests find the performances “very beautiful and varied,” with “bravo” to the dancers and singers. The show offers some “great performers” who keep the audience captivated, and the overall atmosphere is festive and glamorous. Some mention that the hall felt a little crowded, so arriving on time helps ensure you get a good seat.

Location and Logistics

Being just 10 minutes away from Venice, the venue is easy to reach, but transportation is something to consider. One review pointed out that a taxi round trip could cost around 90 euros, which is pretty steep, especially if traveling solo or on a budget. However, the venue offers free parking, and most importantly, a shuttle service back to the station was appreciated by guests, particularly those staying out late.

Note that on certain dates, visitors staying outside Venice may face a €5 access fee, so planning your trip and checking the latest info is wise.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This cabaret show is well-suited for travelers who want a fun, relaxed evening with a bit of sparkle. It works well for those who enjoy live performances, good food, and a lively atmosphere. Families with older children or teenagers might also enjoy it, given the lively acts and family-friendly nature of the show. However, if you’re looking for an authentic Venetian cultural event or a more low-key experience, you might want to explore other options.

The Real Reviews from Guests

Many visitors have shared great feedback. One guest noted, “It’s a great show. Worth coming to see it. The dinner was really good, too.” Another reviewer highlighted the helpful staff and the generous portions of food, saying, “Magnifique soirée de Noël, avec des artistes de qualité et un excellent rapport qualité-prix.”

Some point out logistical concerns, like transportation costs or the crowded hall, but overall, reviews tend to be positive, especially praising the variety of performances and quality of the food. One guest summed it up: “The cabaret style was very entertaining, with some great performers. The staff was very attentive,” making it clear that the vibe is lively, friendly, and memorable.

Practical Tips for Booking and Attending

• The tour is typically booked around 52 days in advance, so plan ahead if you want to secure a spot.
• Arrive promptly at 8 pm for the welcome cocktail and to get your preferred seating.
• Consider transportation costs—while parking is free, taxis can add up.
• The dress code is elegant, so dress up a little to match the glamour of the venue.
• The show is suitable for most ages, but check if your children find lively performances engaging.
• If you’re staying outside Venice, be aware of potential access fees on certain dates.
• The experience is around 4 hours, so plan your evening accordingly.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the ticket price? No, transportation is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own transfer or use the shuttle service, which is available back to the station.

What does the dinner menu include? You can choose from three options: Landfare (meat), seafood, or vegetarian. The meal includes starters, a first course, a second course, dessert, coffee, water, and half a bottle of wine.

Is the show suitable for children? Yes, the show is described as suitable for all ages, and the performances are lively and family-friendly.

How long does the entire experience last? About 4 hours, starting at 8 pm and ending late in the evening.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What is the dress code? Elegant attire is recommended to match the glamorous setting.

Are there any extra costs I should be aware of? On certain dates, visitors staying outside Venice may have to pay a €5 access fee. Also, taxi or shuttle costs are separate unless included in your transport plan.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a lively, elegant night out with good food and captivating performances, this Avanspettacolo cabaret show offers a memorable experience just outside Venice. It combines the thrill of a variety show with the pleasures of Italian cuisine, all wrapped in a beautiful venue decorated with Venetian flair. It’s a nice change from typical tourist spots, especially if you enjoy a touch of showbiz and a festive atmosphere.

That said, keep transportation in mind—location and logistics might add to your adventure, but they’re manageable with some planning. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a fun night to remember, this show could be a highlight of your Venice trip.