The O'Neill begins its Cabaret & Performance Conference

The O'Neill's conference isn't just about cabaret; it's about reexamining, redefining and revitalizing cabaret. In this case, the art form is deinged as "any kind of live performance in an intimate space that breaks the fourth wall."

In other words, it covers a whole lot of territory.

The O'Neill's Cabaret & Performance Conference (CPC) is once again giving performers the chance to develop new projects and then stage them for the public. A whole team of directors, music directors and guest artists helps out.

- KRISTINA DORSEY

Below is a schedule for the Cabaret & Performance Conference at the Eugene O'Neill Theater Center, 305 Great Neck Road, Waterford. Shows begin at 8 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Open mics follow performances, except on Aug. 1, 5 and 11. Tickets for O'Neill members are $5 less than listed below. Call (860) 443-1238.

Wednesday, Aug. 1: Opening ceremonies, free admission.

Aug. 2: Marilyn Maye, $35

Aug. 3: "Ac-Cent-Tchu-Ate the Positive: A Johnny Mercer Celebration," with Penny Fuller, Marilyn Maye, Amanda McBroom, more, $40

Aug. 4: "Still Getting My Act Together," the sequel to "I'm Getting My Act Together and Taking It on the Road," Gretchen Cryer, $35

Aug. 5: 2012 O'Neill Follies, with Leanne Borghesi, Jeremiah James, Susan Winter and Penny Fuller, 6 p.m., $35

Aug. 7: "Next to Ab-normal," Loni Ackerman, $35

Aug. 8: Christine Andreas, Robert Cuccioli with the 2012 Cabaret Junior Fellows, $40

Aug. 9: 2012 Cabaret Fellows, $35

Aug. 10: "40 Naked Women, a Monkey and Me," Veanne Cox, $35

Aug. 11: Cabaret Grand Finale, followed by reception, $45