The Iberia Performing Arts League is set to debut its annual spring musical with its production of “Cabaret” opening this week. 

The musical, which features live music, is based on the famous Broadway production that is set in Weimar, Germany, shortly before the advent of World War II. 

Director Kaleigh Lay said her cast and crew have been rehearsing for the production since December and is excited for local audiences to see the “PG-13” musical for the first time in Iberia Parish. 

“This is the first time we’re doing ‘Cabaret’ in New Iberia, so that’s exciting,” Lay said. “It’s our big spring musical and we’ve got some surprises.”

The original Broadway production opened in 1966 in New York City and won eight Tony Awards as well as inspired subsequent productions, including a film of the same name. 

“It’s taking place right before the rise of the Nazis,” Lay said. “Right before that happened there was this final gasp of decadence and people partying and being free. An American is visiting Germany, and it’s based on a true story.”

An older Jewish couple falling in love during those perilous historical times is also an aspect of the play, which is based off the 1939 novel “I Am a Camera” by John Van Druten. 

“There’s a lot of really great numbers people will remember from the movie, a lot of iconic songs,” Lay said. 

One of the attractions of the production is a revamped lobby set to look like the Kit Kat Klub, where those seeing the production will be treated to live entertainment and specialty drinks if they come early. 

“Cabaret” runs from March 28 to April 13 at the Essanee Theater on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Friday and Saturday shows start at 7 p.m. and Sunday shows at 2 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at the door or by heading to tix.com.