Applause Optional: A One Hour Musical Journey with Desirée Skylark

How many of us spend our lives waiting to be chosen?

Applause Optional is an intimate, uplifting cabaret that follows the journey of a neurodiverse actress and singer who spent her life searching for validation through auditions, applause, relationships, and the expectations of others—before discovering that the love she had been seeking was her own.

Blending powerful storytelling with a beautifully curated selection of songs from musical theatre and beyond (accompanied by musical director Dean Austin on piano), Desirée Skylark invites audiences into a heartfelt hour of laughter, vulnerability, reflection and hope.

From moments of humour to deeply personal revelations, this is a show about healing your inner child, letting go of perfection, and learning to stand in your own spotlight.

Whether you've ever questioned your self-worth, chased someone else's approval, or simply need a reminder that you are already enough, Applause Optional offers an evening that will leave you smiling, inspired, and perhaps seeing yourself a little differently.

About Desirée Skylark

Desirée Skylark is a musical theatre performer and voice over artist, with extensive experience in pantomime, immersive theatre and family shows. She is also a talented vintage singer who has toured throughout the UK and internationally, both as a soloist and as part of various close harmony groups, as well as being a member of the West End gospel choir.

Her career has seen her performing at a wide range of venues, from care homes to cruise ships, holiday parks to London theatres where she has shared the stage with acclaimed artists including Courtney Bowman and Alice Fearn.