Glamour, glitz, theater, comedy, body positivity, freedom of expression, and striptease – what’s not to love? The art of burlesque first came onto the scene in the mid-nineteenth century, and though its popularity somewhat cooled in the early 1900s, it’s now experiencing a significant revival.
Neo-burlesque, as the movement is called, has people packing cabarets once again. We’ve pulled together a list of top-notch venues every burlesque enthusiast should have on their itinerary.
Allways Lounge and Theater, New Orleans
Allways Lounge and Theater, located in the Faubourg Marigny area of the Big Easy, keeps things exciting with its stacked schedule of live music, comedy shows, and, of course, burlesque performances. The cozy stage, wrapped in New Orleans magic, has become a mainstay of the neighborhood, pushing creativity to a whole new level. Inclusivity is important here, and LGBTQ+ acts (including boylesque) are frequently featured. Entry costs vary based on the show.
Nasty Boys Saloon, Treviso, Italy
If you’re seeking the ultimate combination of burlesque, Americana, and barbecue, look no further than Nasty Boys Saloon in Treviso, Italy (you might have thought we were going to mention Texas!). This spacious venue hosts music acts of all genres, particularly favoring rockabilly and other classic rock-and-roll acts, and even recently held its first burlesque festival. It’s an ideal spot for a lively, saloon-style evening.
The Cabaret Scene in Paris
The Grand Dame of burlesque and cabaret culture, Paris offers numerous burlesque options tailored to various tastes. For elaborate productions, Le Moulin Rouge and Lido stand out with their flashy cabaret shows featuring large troupes of dancers and grand, detailed sets. If you prefer a more intimate burlesque experience, visit La Nouvelle Seine, the floating theater that hosts the cheeky Cabaret Burlesque every weekend; entry is €21.
Skull’s Rainbow Room, Nashville
Tucked away in Nashville’s historic Printer’s Alley, Skull’s Rainbow Room has entertained audiences with various music and performance acts since 1948. Many music legends, including Etta James and Johnny Cash, have graced its stage. Presently, it hosts nightly jazz and a late-night burlesque revue that consistently attracts crowds on weekends. Performers dazzle on the bar’s signature checkerboard stage at 10pm on Thursdays and 11pm on Friday and Saturday. Cover for the show is $20.
London Burlesque Festival, London
London boasts a vibrant burlesque scene and hosts two large-scale burlesque events annually. The London Burlesque Festival showcases over a hundred variety performers in venues throughout the city; dates vary each year, typically occurring in late spring and early summer. If you happen to miss the main festival, the same organizers also host the World Burlesque Games, Europe’s largest burlesque competition, in the fall.
Kleine Nachtrevue, Berlin
Berlin’s club and cabaret scene is legendary, and Kleine Nachtrevue truly lives up to the city’s reputation. With a scalloped gold ceiling, chandelier, theater seating, and a shiny mid-century-style bar, the venue sets the stage for an unforgettable burlesque experience. They offer early (9pm) and late (11:45pm) shows, featuring both traditional and modern burlesque acts. It is advisable to reserve seats in advance online and pay in cash at the door (no cards accepted); tickets range in price from €20-35.
The Stages and Museums of Las Vegas
Unsurprisingly, Sin City is an epicenter of burlesque and performance art, boasting a plethora of cabarets and theater shows ranging from traditional burlesque to burlesque-inflected circus shows to hilarious productions featuring burlesque zombies. Additionally, Vegas is home to the Burlesque Hall of Fame, a fascinating museum dedicated to the history of burlesque in the United States; visitors can explore the glamour of yesteryear through photography and costume exhibits.
Burlesque Etiquette
If you’re new to burlesque shows, you’ll quickly realize that this experience is unlike any other. Given the sensual nature of burlesque performances, it’s important to follow proper etiquette as an audience member. Here are a few tips for your next visit:
- Never touch the performer unless specifically invited. This is their profession, and touching them during their performance is disrespectful and a violation of consent.
- Familiarize yourself with the venue’s tipping policy – some shows allow for tips, while others do not. Be prepared by bringing small bills!
- Be mindful that many shows prohibit photography, so think twice before pulling out your camera and confirm with the performer or venue.
- Cheer loudly! Burlesque shows invite (respectful) audience interaction, so don’t hesitate to show appreciation for your favorite performers when they execute a particularly captivating dance move.
