Broadway Flash said: "The pre show is only five people. Even with them, it’s still a smaller cast than Chicago. I imagine their next emcee will be a big star as well"
It's much more than 5 people. It's 5 performers, plus 3 swings for them, plus four musicians. So right there is 12 additional people on top of the 22 performers for Cabaret itself not counting the orchestra. And then there are bartenders and other front of house staff who have to be there for additional time, plus any food prep staff, plus the dedicated photographer they have for the preshow crowd, plus I'm sure more.
"...everyone finally shut up, and the audience could enjoy the beginning of the Anatevka Pogram in peace."