The Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekender 2025 has crowned its Tournament of Tease 2025 winners. Images courtesy of SHPhotografia. Full writeup and performance photos to follow tomorrow. Find out more at bhofweekend.com…
This morning (PST), the board and leadership of the Burlesque Hall of Fame have announced their decision to ‘indefinitely suspend the museum’s operation, effective July 20, 2025’. In an email to members and…
What makes a burlesque headliner – the top-billing, top-of-the-poster big draw that brings star power and house-down finales to any show or festival? A passion project born in Brisbane Australia aims to…
Since 2013, award winning performer and instructor Maxi Millions has brought her fierce brand of “rock and roll bump ‘n’ grind” to stages all over North America. Based in Phoenix, Arizona, Maxi is…
One of the precious few Italians to make the Burlesque TOP 50, Ginevra Joyce creates ‘glamorous and explosive’ acts, winning ‘Most Classic’ at the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend 2023. Crowned Miss…
Cadbury Parfait is an award-winning performer serving classic burlesque with a generous side order of tongue-in-cheek British humour. After several years performing and teaching at Shimmy Shake School of Burlesque in Berlin,…
Spookey, ‘The Tiny Titan of Burlesque’, began his career in 2011 with traveling burlesque shows in the metropolitan area of the US. An acrobatic stripping specialist, Spookey’s credits include the prestigious Le…
In the first of a new series, Alek Palinski – principal dancer, choreographer and rehearsal director for Dita Von Teese and her touring burlesque shows – walks us through a typical show…
Joy Rider is an award winning burlesque performer who just won Best Debut at the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend. Based in Montreal, Canada she is also the co-founder of AMPLIFY BIPOC…
Everybody is talking about Cleopantha – the exciting British rising star who combines a high energy dance style with burlesque striptease and hip-hop. In 2020 she debuted at 29 on the Burlesque…
Hi! My name is Red Tongued Raven. I’m so thrilled to partner with 21st Century Burlesque Magazine to bring you my burlesque makeup tutorial for brown skin. When I first started doing…
Described as ‘Pinup in Motion’, Mika Romantic is the epitome of classic burlesque entertainment. She was named one of the Sexiest Acts to Follow by GQ Magazine and won a title in…
Lola Coquette is a multi-award winning burlesque performer, producer and instructor based in Portland. A passionate activist for BIPOC and Latinx rights, Lola is a founding member of The Bees’ Knees Burlesque Revue…
Canadian burlesque sensation Zyra Lee Vanity started performing burlesque in 2013 via the Toronto School of Burlesque, and quickly became a multi-award winning entertainer. Voted number 31 in the Burlesque Top 50…
Jessabelle Thunder has been dancing joyously across burlesque stages since 2009. With a wink of her eye and a thrust of her hips, she’ll have you hooked. In 2018, Jessabelle was awarded…
Originally from Montreal, Canada, Foxy Lexxi attended a live burlesque show seven years ago and it was love at first strip. After studying under The Lady Josephine and BonBon Bombay, she went…
It’s been almost 18 months since coronavirus reared its ugly head and brought the world to its knees – and Seoul’s burlesque scene along with it. While many places slowly reopen as…
The first time I saw Ms. Briq House perform, she was the headlining act at the one year anniversary dance party of erotic boutique WinkWink in Bellingham, WA. After the gorgeous but…
Betty Q has never been one to shrink from a challenge. Even as we talk, she’s in the endocrinology ward of a women’s hospital in Warsaw, Poland. She’s there for some routine…
Spring 2021 brings renewed confidence that live performance can return after a year of Covid closures. Burlesque photographer Veronika Marx is celebrating with a new book, showcasing some of the brightest stars…
In the face of personal tragedy and a rampant global pandemic, veteran show pony Lola Van Ella has never been the type to sit on her jazz hands. After the sudden and…
As the global burlesque scene tries to survive and adapt in this unprecedented and uncertain time, one Black-owned business is keeping the sparkle and showbiz alive. Founded in 2015 by burlesque performer…
From Lydia Thompson’s scandalous hosiery and Tempest Storm’s net bras, to Dita and D’Lish unlacing corsets, and Michelle L’amour’s panther claw merkin, burlesque performers throughout history have played an important role in…
Since 2010, Chicago-based, award-winning burlesque powerhouse Po’Chop has headlined shows across the US, starred in music videos and dance films, and performed at the Brooklyn Museum with Brown Girls Burlesque. She is…
Earlier this year, the Burlesque Hall of Fame announced that, due to the Covid-19 crisis, their annual Weekender – a crucial fundraising event for the Burlesque Hall of Fame Museum and its…
In a 2016 interview with Jessica Price, burlesque powerhouse Perle Noire remarked that “any time a person of color reaches out to me with … complaint or they notice that other troupes…
In light of the ongoing global Covid-19 crisis, the Burlesque Hall of Fame has made the difficult decision to postpone the 30th annual Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekender, usually held in June,…
The global Covid-19 crisis has sent the burlesque community into a tailspin, with countless shows cancelled and many of us in financial difficulty. But you – dear reader – can help. Now…
When I was asked by the editor of this illustrious publication to write a piece about the state of burlesque, I hesitated. My twelve years in the industry have witnessed huge changes…
Burlesque Festivals! They are the structure behind our scene, the canvas against which we can most fully display our artistry. They give us stages big enough for our most elaborate props, our…
Matt Finish, Best Boylesque winner in 2015, guides us through the group and boylesque categories at the 2019 Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekender. Please check out our Burlesque Hall of Fame coverage…
Sparkly Devil Scholarship recipient Precious Ephemera writes in tribute to burlesque legend Camille 2000 to mark her passing after a long and valiant battle with cancer. Camille 2000, ‘the Girl for Yesterday,…
Maxi Millions reviews the Best Debut category at the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend 2019. Images courtesy of MC Newman. I find it fitting to begin the dive into the five hour…
Live Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend results from the 2019 Tournament of Tease, including the title of Miss Exotic World, Reigning Queen of Burlesque; Best Debut; Best Boylesque; and Best Groups. Stay…
In 2011 I saw Inga Ingenue, a five foot revelation in pink and black stripes, perform her iconic Minnie the Moocher act at the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend. It remains –…
“Legendary deadpan dominatrix” emcee Miss Astrid – aka comedian Kate Valentine – has been tearing strips off unsuspecting audience members in over 1000 shows since 1997. After a number of years out…
In November I had the pleasure of attending the inaugural Crescent City Burlesque Weekender, a three-day celebration of New Orleans burlesque. The festival, produced by AJay Strong and Bella Blue, was held…
Hello readers. My name is La Viola Vixen, an Australian burlesque performer based in Berlin. I am writing this from the perspective of an individual who represents the majority of the burlesque…
Lou Lou la Duchesse de Rière has been crowned ‘Queen of Burlesque’ at the New Orleans Burlesque Festival, in a classic burlesque contest where competitors perform accompanied by a live band. Routines…
Last night, in the Orleans Showroom in Las Vegas, INGA was crowned Miss Exotic World, Reigning Queen of Burlesque 2018. Jessabelle Thunder took 1st Runner Up, with Elle Dorado in third place. Read…
Live Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend results from the 2018 Tournament of Tease, including the title of Miss Exotic World, Reigning Queen of Burlesque; Best Debut; Best Boylesque; and Best Groups. Stay…
Last year I got dumped by another performer right before BHOF. What was meant to be this grand adventure together had turned into a solo obligation. The trip was further complicated by…
What things her gaze conceals, yet gives acknowledgement to. What horrors, yet what joys. “Josephine Baker” I whisper to myself before shows, willfully propelling myself forward, no matter the obstacles. Others say Josephine…
Behold! The Burlesque Costume Closet of your Dreams! Dinah Might is known for the immaculate condition of her high-end costumes. She acquired two of Catherine D’lish’s original, iconic costumes in an ebay…
Yesterday evening, Michelle L’amour – Miss Exotic World 2005 and celebrated superstar of contemporary burlesque – unveiled a surprise video statement, revealing a painful disease she has lived with since childhood – Alopecia.
Tas Deville reports on the Miss Exotic World category at the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend 2017 Tournament of Tease. Here we are once more, sparkle folx: another year rolls forth, bringing with it another…
London burlesque heavyweights Betsy Rose, Missy Fatale and Jolie Papillon have conjured immersive magic at The King’s Head members club with Gin House Burlesque, a heady evening of tease, tipples and prohibition…
Tas Deville reports on the Best Debut category at the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend 2017 Tournament of Tease. Each year, the Best Debut competition provides a glimpse into the up-and-coming heavy-hitters…
Le Bouge Neon, a “disco drama” created by Moulin Rouge dancer Fallon Dee and comedian Chris Fitchew which claims to “celebrate women, art and tease”, is one of a pleasing number of…
Burlesque star Betsy Rose reports on Sublime Boudoir at Alder Manor, which ran for two spectacular nights in New York in May 2017. To experience and be a part of Sublime Boudoir…
Dita Von Teese and her all star cast of burlesque greats are on the road again this summer with The Art of the Teese. In an interview with 21st Century Burlesque at…
Raven Virginia, the 2017 recipient of the Sparkly Devil Scholarship, reviews the 60th Annual Titans of Tease Showcase at the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend 2017. Red is the fiery colour of love…
The Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend 2017 continued last night with the 60th Annual Titans of Tease Showcase at the Orleans Showroom, Las Vegas. Hosted by BenDeLaCreme, the showcase included appearances from Sassy Lassy…
The RESULTS are in! The winners have been crowned! Now get a glimpse of the performances awarded Best Debut, Best Boylesque, Best Small Group, Best Large Group, Most Comedic, Most Classic and…
The RESULTS are in! The winners have been crowned! Now get a glimpse of the acts awarded 2nd Runner Up, 1st Runner Up and Miss Exotic World, Reigning Queen of Burlesque.…
The 27th Annual Tournament of Tease at the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend 2017 has just concluded in the Orleans Showroom. The highly anticipated results are as follows: Miss Exotic World, Reigning…
Live Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend results from the 2017 Tournament of Tease, including the title of Miss Exotic World, Reigning Queen of Burlesque; Best Debut; Best Boylesque; and Best Groups. Stay…
The Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend 2017 continued last night with the 60th Annual Titans of Tease Showcase at the Orleans Showroom, Las Vegas. Hosted by World Famous *BOB*, the showcase included appearances from April…
The Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend 2017 kicked off in fine style last night with the Movers, Shakers and Innovators showcase at the Orleans Showroom, Las Vegas. Hosted by Jeez Loueez,…
It was so popular in 2015, we’ve brought it back! The 2017 edition of Miss Exotic World Match Game continues, where the ten contenders battling it out for Reigning Queen of…
It was so popular in 2015, we’ve brought it back! The 2017 edition of Miss Exotic World Match Game continues, where the ten contenders battling it out for Reigning Queen of…
It was so popular in 2015, we’ve brought it back! The 2017 edition of Miss Exotic World Match Game continues, where the ten contenders battling it out for Reigning Queen of…
It was so popular in 2015, we’ve brought it back! The 2017 edition of Miss Exotic World Match Game continues, where the ten contenders battling it out for Reigning Queen of…
It was so popular in 2015, we’ve brought it back! The 2017 edition of Miss Exotic World Match Game continues, where the ten contenders battling it out for Reigning Queen of…
It was so popular in 2015, we’ve brought it back! Welcome to the 2017 edition of Miss Exotic World Match Game, where the ten contenders battling it out for Reigning Queen…
It was so popular in 2015, we’re bringing it back! Welcome to the 2017 edition of Miss Exotic World Match Game, where the ten contenders battling it out for Reigning Queen…
The F-word has been front and center throughout the world and at the forefront of discussion within the burlesque community of late. With ‘Nasty Women’ and ‘Bad Feminists’ globally speaking out…
Alyssa Kitt‘s epic Australian Burlesque Festival 2016 report continues in Byron Bay and Brisbane. Read Part One here. Read Part Two here. Read Part Three here. Australian Burlesque Festival: Byron Bay We boarded the…
The Viva Las Vegas Rockabilly Weekender celebrated its 20th year over the Easter weekend, and they certainly pulled out all the stops for the hotly anticipated Burlesque Showcase. This year, burlesque events…
Last week, eight performers walked out of the Toulouse Burlesque Festival in protest at the inclusion of a burlesque act involving blackface. Click here for full details. In response to the incident,…
The Pastie Project is a book by costume designer and burlesque performer Rosey La Rouge, featuring an archive of vintage and modern burlesque pasties contributed by performers and costumers from all over the…
The Toulouse Burlesque Festival, produced by Florence Boué, and Stephane Lafage of Le Kalinka, has a cast crisis on its hands after a dispute over a blackface burlesque act. Eight performers have walked…
“The Cocoa Butter Club gives a voice to The Other. We exist to promote the fact that performers of colour are creating in a multitude of mediums, and whilst our cabaret may…
We invite you to enjoy Adele Wolf in conversation with one of the world’s best loved burlesque legends, the warm, witty and wise Miss Judith Stein, documenting her journey from college gogo…
If you’re a burlesque dancer, Lort knows you’ve encountered all sorts of feedback on your acts/self as a performer. From the gushing super fans, the ‘but-what-do-your-parents-thinkers’, to the compli-sulters (my word for…
Alyssa Kitt‘s epic Australian Burlesque Festival 2016 report continues in Adelaide and Darwin. Read Part One here. Read Part Two here. Australian Burlesque Festival: Adelaide Adelaide is known as the city of…
Well… What does one say? Donald Trump is President Elect of the United States of America. What effect this would have on the BurlyCon weekend, I honestly wasn’t sure. I did know…
Every year, thousands of burlesque professionals, peers and fans vote for their TOP 50 Burlesque Industry Figures. If you are new to this extremely popular process, please read the Burlesque TOP 50…
Every year, thousands of burlesque professionals, peers and fans vote for their TOP 50 Burlesque Industry Figures, and the results are in for the Burlesque TOP 50 2016. If you are new…
Every year, thousands of burlesque professionals, peers and fans vote for their TOP 50 Burlesque Industry Figures, and the results are in for the Burlesque TOP 50 2016. If you are new…
Every year, thousands of burlesque professionals, peers and fans vote for their TOP 50 Burlesque Industry Figures, and the results are in for the Burlesque TOP 50 2016. If you are new…
Every year, thousands of burlesque professionals, peers and fans vote for their TOP 50 Burlesque Industry Figures, and the results are in for the Burlesque TOP 50 2016. If you are new…
Every year, thousands of burlesque professionals, peers and fans vote for their TOP 50 Burlesque Industry Figures, and the results are in for the Burlesque TOP 50 2016. If you are new…
Every year, thousands of burlesque professionals, peers and fans vote for their TOP 50 Burlesque Industry Figures, and the results are in for the Burlesque TOP 50 2016. If you are new…
Kitten LaRue and Lou Henry Hoover, adored collectively as Kitten ‘N’ Lou, were voted No. 1 in the Burlesque TOP 50 2015. With the 2016 poll results soon to be published, the…
In 2017, Burlesque TOP 50 big-hitter Bella Blue challenges you to swear on your pasties the following commitments to yourself:
One of La Soiree’s brightest, hottest and jaw-droppingly fabulous stars is boylesque acrobat Hamish McCann, and we spoke to him about his iconic, roof-raising pole routine, which you can catch in London for the next few weeks…
![Jett Adore on stage at the Burlesque Hall fo Fame Weekend 2013. ©Derek Jackson [Stage Door Johnnies Post-BHoF Recap]](https://i0.wp.com/21stcenturyburlesque.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/jett-derek.jpg?resize=650%2C425&ssl=1)
Now in its fifth year, the award-winning Hebden Bridge Burlesque Festival returns in 2017 on April 27 – 30 with a full rosta of some of the biggest names from the world…
In a new interview series, celebrated burlesque performers answer twenty questions which document their career to date and their thoughts on contemporary burlesque, present and future. Blaze, The Red Rose of Texas is…
Like the fabled, festive Coca Cola truck, five star smash La Soiree has rolled into London again this Christmas with a twinkling Spiegeltent full of sass, smut, surprise, and sensational skill. We spoke to…
Alyssa Kitt‘s epic Australian Burlesque Festival 2016 report continues in Canberra and Sydney. Read Part One here… Australian Burlesque Festival: Canberra Our next stop is Canberra, which is Australia’s capital city…
Burlesque Noir, an annual burlesque and cabaret spectacular, hosted sixteen burlesque stars on October 8th at the dazzling Blackpool Tower Ballroom, including New York burlesque headliners Jo Weldon and Medianoche. Jo Weldon…
In the most breathtakingly candid account 21st Century Burlesque Magazine has ever published from a Queen of Burlesque on the experience of wearing the crown, Poison Ivory, Miss Exotic World, Reigning Queen of Burlesque…
Miss Indigo Blue – Miss Exotic World, Reigning Queen of Burlesque 2011 and headmistress of the pioneering Academy of Burlesque – shines a light on some burlesque treasure from Brazil… Although we’re…
Anja Keister reviews the Movers, Shakers and Innovators showcase at the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend 2016. When I received word I was chosen for this task I felt truly honored because…
Electra Mourning recounts an unforgettable learning experience at the Austin Academy of Burlesque in August, where she attended Costuming Tips and Tricks with burlesque legend Bic Carrol. I was extremely nervous…
New York burlesque star Angie Pontani (Miss Exotic World, Reigning Queen of Burlesque 2008) is an inspirational woman I have always admired. As a fellow monster multi-tasker, I often have a WWAD…
21st Century Burlesque fondly remembers watching Folly Mixtures-to-be Ooh La Lou and Liberty Sweet perform almost a decade ago at the Leicester Square Theatre alongside fellow London veterans Polly Rae, Laurie Hagen…
The array of dazzling divas taking the stage at the Sheffield Burlesque and Cabaret Extravaganza this month are a sumptuous feast for the eyes, captured exquisitely here by some of the finest…
Tansy and Leon were the smash hit of The Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend last year with their awesome duet, and they smashed it again at the Viva Las Vegas Rockabilly Weekend…
Coco Lectric was radiant and joyous at the Viva Las Vegas Rockabilly Weekend 2016. Her dazzling smile, sparkling eyes, sense of humour and captivating musicality made for a showstopping performance. Every performer…
Next, it’s the curator of the dazzling Burlesque Showcase herself, the vivacious Audrey Deluxe, at the Viva Las Vegas Rockabilly Weekender 2016. Every performer in the Burlesque Showcase is personally invited by…
Jeez Loueez, The Honeybadger of Burlesque and social media warrior, shares her Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend 2016 rollercoaster with 21st Century Burlesque Magazine readers. Buckle up! Wednesday Another year, another…
Presenting: The Toronto Burlesque Festival with Kitten ‘N’ Lou (aka: Poutine and Pool Lounging, eh?) Can we talk about the Canadians? WHAT MAKES THEM SO NICE AND PLEASANT?! Is it their socialised…
This year at the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend 2016, sensational-spectacle-specialists Sublime Boudoir took the notorious burlesque afterparty to a whole new level. After each showcase from Thursday to Sunday, Burlesque Hall…
In the course of writing this review, I couldn’t help but refer to Darlinda just Darlinda’s review of the Best Boylesque category from Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend 2015 and her musings…
Kay Sera reports on the 59th Annual Titans of Tease Reunion Showcase at the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend 2016. There are so many fabulous reasons to attend The Burlesque Hall of…
Tas DeVille reviews the Miss Exotic World, Reigning Queen of Burlesque category at the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend 2016 for 21st Century Burlesque Magazine. It’s that time of year again, glitter…
Some happy burlesque news this week! New York burlesque dancer Grace Gotham has been chosen to star in the new Dove campaign: #mybeautymysay . She is captioned as a burlesque performer and…
[wp-review id=”26829″] BARBU, performed by quirky Quebec circus troupe Cirque Alfonse, is a sexy explosion of bombastic, beardy brilliance at London Wonderground 2016. Limber, lusty lumberjacks, mystical mayhem, folklore and live folk…
And so begins my recap of the hot burlesque action at the Viva Las Vegas Rockabilly Weekender 2016, starting with the big-guns-blazing Burlesque Showcase. Every performer in this show is personally invited…
Sadie Sinner and Coco Deville report on a disturbing burlesque act involving blackface which came to light on social media today. Not the first. We hope it’s the last. Ed. Sadie Sinner…
Aurora Galore: Glamorous Weirdo is pitched as ‘performance art, avant-garde circus and theatrical annihilation’, but in truth it is none of those things. And it is interesting that Aurora Galore does not…
Little did they know, but the audience at the Viva Las Vegas Rockabilly Weekender in April 2016 were treated to the winning act of the new Miss Exotic World, Reigning Queen of…
On Thursday night at the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend, emcees Dusty Limits and Armitage Shanks made remarks which were widely questioned and condemned by attendees and the wider community (read the…
The winners of the most prestigious night in the burlesque calendar have been decided at the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend 2016. Poison Ivory took the coveted Miss Exotic World, Reigning Queen of Burlesque…
Live Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend results from the 2016 Tournament of Tease, including the title of Miss Exotic World, Reigning Queen of Burlesque; Best Debut; Best Boylesque; and Best Group… Winner…
The following statement is from emcee Dusty Limits regarding a ‘rape joke’ made at the Thursday night after party at the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend 2016. For more information on the incident,…
Attendees at the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend 2016 were left stunned and angry after a ‘rape joke’ was made by the emcee of the Thursday night after party. Sublime Boudoir are…
Jennifer Taylor explains how a new taste for tease has shaped the face of London burlesque… Things are getting raunchier in London’s burlesque scene. A new sexual revolution has helped fuel the…
Deepest apologies are offered for the delay on releasing the Burlesque TOP 50 2015 Non-Performing charts. The Burlesque TOP 50 always encourages votes for non-performing burlesque figures because their influence and contribution is…
We’re pleased to announce that application results for The Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekender 2016 will be coming out soon. With hundreds of applications from performers around the world, there will be…
Introducing a guest post from Mary Cyn. Feel free to share your view on this topic in the comments section below. Years ago, my former boss went to a burlesque show. He…
The Burlesque TOP 50 bonus lists continue with the Australia Top 10. The Burlesque TOP 50 2015 included more Australian performers than ever before. ***Correction: Sina King was omitted from the initial list and…
Renowned for her exquisite wardrobe, sublime hostess Lili La Scala made a modest four changes during the glittering Hebden Bridge Burlesque Festival Gala last year. She takes us through her costume changes,…
The Hebden Bridge Burlesque Festival Gala 2015 was certainly a night to remember, in no small part due to the mesmerising performances from British burlesque icon Vicky Butterfly. Enjoy a gallery of…
The Burlesque TOP 50 bonus lists continue with the Europe Top 10 (excluding UK). The Burlesque TOP 50 2015 is sponsored by Sublime Boudoir 1. Cleo Viper (Burlesque TOP 50 No. 18) 2.…
For more than a decade, Michelle L’amour – Miss Exotic World, Reigning Queen of Burlesque 2005 – has been bringing Chicago the “Hottest Night of Winter” with amazing Valentine’s Day productions. And…
The Burlesque TOP 50 2015 has been announced, but national and non-performing lists are coming, starting with the UK TOP 20. The Burlesque TOP 50 2015 is sponsored by Sublime Boudoir UK…
Viva Dallas Burlesque producer and Pincurl Magazine founder Shoshana Portnoy responds to J.D. Oxblood’s Burlesque TOP 50 Breakdown and shares her thoughts on the popular international poll, now in its seventh year.…
I have by no means lived by these words for my entire career. After spending my first 3-4 years experimenting, I started to create acts that I thought would “get me somewhere”…
At last, the Burlesque TOP 50 2015 TOP 3. National and non-performing lists to come, but for now, let’s recognise our final three… The Burlesque TOP 50 2015 is sponsored by Sublime…
The Burlesque TOP 50 2015 results are almost done! TOP 3 to come! The Burlesque TOP 50 2015 is sponsored by Sublime Boudoir 10. Vicky Butterfly Facebook – Twitter – Instagram – Website Who: Shimmering visionary famed for…
The Burlesque TOP 50 2015 results continue! Where there is a tie, the policy is to allow joint holders of a single spot in order to celebrate as many people as possible. TOP 10…
The Burlesque TOP 50 2015 results continue! Where there is a tie, the policy is to allow joint holders of a single spot in order to celebrate as many people as possible. More…
The Burlesque TOP 50 2015 results start right here, right now! Things have taken a bit longer this year due to an increased number of voters and additional demands, but the time…
Happy New Year, all! Last year’s ‘most popular burlesque articles’ post was so popular I’ve created one for 2015 for you to enjoy while you recover from last night’s festivities/gigs/denial. 1. LUCKY PIERRE’S…
By now, most of us have seen a certain article that recently resurfaced – one titled ‘The Shittiest Burlesque I’ve Ever Seen’ [no longer available. Ed]. I want to believe that the…
In the second of three interviews, sensational British burlesque newcomer Cece Sinclair is interviewed by Ivy Wilde… Performing for just over 18 months, Cece Sinclair is taking the UK by storm. Moving…
Felicity Furore is the first of three outstanding newcomers to British burlesque we would like to introduce to the international community. Ivy Wilde interviewed her recently in London… 24 year old Felicity…
As burlesque artists, we rarely do it all on our own. We still have photographers to make us look good, designers to make our shows stand out, costume designers to help us…
It all came full circle when I got the invitation e-mail from Michelle L’amour. I’ve always wanted to participate in Stripper’s Holiday, ever since I wanted to pursue burlesque. Not many people…
Take ten minutes out of your evening to watch this brave video from Jeez Loueez, outlining some of her concerns after participating in the New Orleans Burlesque Festival. The following is an introduction…
[wp-review] When it was announced at the beginning of the year that Burlesque Noir 2015 would be held at Blackpool’s Tower Ballroom my heart skipped a beat. When the announcement of Tempest…
I am a member of the New York City burlesque community. I started performing nearly four years ago, jumping into the ‘behind the scenes’ aspects of shows shortly following my debut and graduation from the…
J. Von Stratton was recently crowned ‘Queen of the Roses’ at the annual Oregon Burlesque Festival. The festival is a three day burlesque art exhibition with over seventy performances featuring artists from across the…
Between the Sheets: An Intimate Cabaret brings burlesque bang up to date with flair, authenticity and intelligence in a scene often plagued with complacency and a lack of creativity and willingness to…
[wp-review] Back in London for the fourth time and enjoying an extended run at London Wonderground’s delicious Spiegeltent, Briefs – an all-male Australian revue fusing circus, burlesque and drag – certainly delivers…
Alyssa Kitt recaps the Perth International Burlesque Festival, also starring Vicky Butterfly, Medianoche, Lola The Vamp and Lillian Starr… There are few moments as special as the time of year when artists…
Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend 2015 Best Debut competitor Alyssa Kitt shares her pageant experience… 21st Century Burlesque Magazine Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend 2015 Coverage is sponsored by Fancy Feather. After…
Glitter crash is real. And it is devastating. One delayed flight home and a rehearsal later, I’m collapsed on my couch for the first time after my weekend at the Snake Oil…
Texas is one of the largest states in the US and its burlesque scene is growing to match it every day. With a growing reputation for innovation and an enthusiastic fan base,…
Evie Red presents an Aussie take on the Texas Burlesque Festival! #evietakestexas In early April, this little showgirl packed her most sparkly G-string and lampshade headpiece into a suitcase and travelled 8,800 miles…
[wp-review] The Double R Club is a dark and disturbing spectacle of Lynch inspired nightmares. Away from its usual setting at Bethnal Green Working Men’s Club, The Double R grows into something…
The star-studded and heartfelt step-down of 2014’s Queen of Burlesque was a highlight of this year’s Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend. The ever-elegant Midnite Martini shared a few words with Crystal Tassels about…
Enjoy Part Two of an epic 2nd Annual Caput Mundi International Burlesque Award Diary by Grace Gotham. You can now apply for the 2015 Caput Mundi International Burlesque Award here. Saturday October 18, 2014 On…
Kitten ‘N’ Lou here, reporting from the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend 2015 Sunday night spectacular! After a criz-azy ‘show-busiest couple’ style weekend, jam packed to the glitter gills (panel speaking, bowling…
Click the link below to tell your burlesque story… I know most people outside Finland usually find out about me through my Mata Hari signature act, and tend to think I’m the…
UK burlesque performer and The Naked Standup star Miss Glory Pearl reports on her experience as a volunteer at the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend 2015… 21st Century Burlesque Magazine Burlesque Hall…
Hula Hooper extraordinaire Helen Orford shares her beautiful bargain costume creation! For the past few months I’ve been getting lots of requests for a 1920’s/Great Gatsby themed act, and for the most…
Kay Sera reports on the 58th Annual Titans of Tease Reunion Showcase at the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend 2015… 21st Century Burlesque Magazine Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend 2015 Coverage is sponsored by…
Enjoy this epic two-part 2nd Annual Caput Mundi International Burlesque Award Diary by Grace Gotham. You can now apply for the 2015 Caput Mundi International Burlesque Award here. I first met Albadoro Gala (Producer…
Read on to find out more about a fabulous burlesque exhibition in Milwaukee, US, which is open until July 5th, 2015 and includes items contributed by The Burlesque Hall of Fame… “More on…
Kitten ‘N’ Lou do Viva Las Vegas! When we first got the email from the gorgeous Audrey Deluxe asking us to perform at Viva Las Vegas Weekend 18, our first thought was:…
Darlinda Just Darlinda reviews the Best Boylesque category at the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend 2015 Tournament of Tease… I cannot begin to speak about the Best Boylesque category at The…
Veronica Blacklace is the resplendent ringmistress of a cabaret gem at Brighton Fringe 2015. [wp-review] Cabaret Boheme, holding court in a mid-size Spiegeltent at Brighton Fringe 2015, promised “an unforgettable evening … with…
Crystal Tassels reports on the Burlesque Hall of Fame 2015 Movers, Shakers and Innovators showcase for 21st Century Burlesque Magazine… Thursday was a glorious night for spectacle and fun at the Burlesque…
At The Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend Tournament of Tease, ten incredible women competed for the title of Miss Exotic World, Reigning Queen of Burlesque 2015. The coveted crown went to…
[wp-review] If there are two things we like at 21st Century Burlesque Magazine it’s infectious toe tapping jazz matched up with stonkingly good circus. Scotch and Soda, a marriage of the two, in…
At The Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend Tournament of Tease, ten incredible women competed for the title of Miss Exotic World, Reigning Queen of Burlesque 2015. The coveted crown went to…
The Burlesque Hall of Fame has crowned a new Miss Exotic World, Reigning Queen of Burlesque: Trixie Little! You have enjoyed photos of her crowning and victory celebrations; now you can see…
New York pocket rocket Trixie Little has been crowned Miss Exotic World, Reigning Queen of Burlesque 2015 at the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend Tournament of Tease in The Orleans Showroom, Las…
Live Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend results from the 2015 Tournament of Tease, including the title of Miss Exotic World, Reigning Queen of Burlesque; Best Debut; Best Boylesque; and Best Group… 21st…
The Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend 2015 got off to a fabulous start on Thursday night at the Movers, Shakers and Innovators showcase. A standout highlight of the evening was Tansy (NYC)…
For this year’s pre-BHoF contender profiles, the Miss Exotic World hopefuls were asked to play a burlesque edition of Match Game, with an added challenge – inspired by RuPaul’s Snatch Game version…
For this year’s pre-BHoF contender profiles, the Miss Exotic World hopefuls were asked to play a burlesque edition of Match Game, with an added challenge – inspired by RuPaul’s Snatch Game version…
For this year’s Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend pre-pageant profiles for Best Debut, the contenders were paired up and mini interviewed each other so they, and we, can get to know them…
For this year’s Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend pre-pageant profiles for Best Debut, the contenders were paired up and mini interviewed each other so they, and we, can get to know them…
For this year’s pre-BHoF contender profiles, the Miss Exotic World hopefuls were asked to play a burlesque edition of Match Game, with an added challenge – inspired by RuPaul’s Snatch Game version…
For this year’s Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend pre-pageant profiles for Best Debut, the contenders were paired up and mini interviewed each other so they, and we, can get to know them…
For this year’s Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend pre-pageant profiles for Best Debut, the contenders were paired up and mini interviewed each other so they, and we, can get to know them…
For this year’s Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend pre-pageant profiles for Best Debut, the contenders were paired up and mini interviewed each other so they, and we, can get to know them…
For this year’s pre-BHoF contender profiles, the Miss Exotic World hopefuls were asked to play a burlesque edition of Match Game, with an added challenge – inspired by RuPaul’s Snatch Game version…
For this year’s pre-BHoF contender profiles, the Miss Exotic World hopefuls were asked to play a burlesque edition of Match Game, with an added challenge – inspired by RuPaul’s Snatch Game version…
For this year’s pre-BHoF contender profiles, the Miss Exotic World hopefuls were asked to play a burlesque edition of Match Game, with an added challenge – inspired by RuPaul’s Snatch Game version…
For this year’s pre-BHoF contender profiles, the Miss Exotic World hopefuls were asked to play a burlesque edition of Match Game, with an added challenge – inspired by RuPaul’s Snatch Game version…
For this year’s pre-BHoF contender profiles, the Miss Exotic World hopefuls were asked to play a burlesque edition of Match Game, with an added challenge – inspired by RuPaul’s Snatch Game version…
For this year’s pre-BHoF contender profiles, the Miss Exotic World hopefuls were asked to play a burlesque edition of Match Game, with an added challenge – inspired by RuPaul’s Snatch Game version…
For this year’s pre-BHoF contender profiles, the Miss Exotic World hopefuls were asked to play a burlesque edition of Match Game, with an added challenge – inspired by RuPaul’s Snatch Game…
Click the link below to tell your burlesque story… My signature fire act ‘Thunder Goddess’ was born in 2010. It has changed a lot since. I absolutely love performing it, however it…
Now in its fourth spectacular year, London Wonderground 2015 invites you to eat, drink and be merry in its festive fairground on London’s South Bank and enjoy evenings of entertainment inside the twinkling 1920s Spiegeltent. Once…
My nipples are no secret. I’m a nudist with a topless vlog. Pasties are required at all LA burlesque bar shows, so I comply with the rhinestoned icing on the nipples. Producers…
Burlesque newcomer Something Blue shares her Dallas Burlesque Festival experience… My New Year’s resolution this year was to take the next step in my burlesque career. I spent my first year keeping it…
Princess Farhana, a guest of honour at BurlyCon 2014, has performed, taught, researched and written about belly dance and burlesque since 1990. Now, 21st Century Burlesque Magazine can bring you the best…
Martina Naccari – aka Tina Topago – who has worked with Italian burlesque agency Voodoo De Luxe since 2013, shares her tips for becoming a sought after stage kitten… I wasn’t born…
With their billowing gowns, bustles and jewelled tiaras, princesses have come to embody a sort of ultra-femininity that Western culture reserves for little girls and brides. In the burlesque world, however, we…
The Hebden Bridge Burlesque Festival has defied opposition and obstacles and steadily grown from a low key two day event to one of Europe’s biggest burlesque festivals. The festival is the brainchild of two…
The Burlesque Hall of Fame is preparing to celebrate an epic, milestone year, marking the 50th Anniversary of the Burlesque Hall of Fame and the 58th Annual Striptease Reunion. The full 2015…
Every spring, celebrated producer Paula Sjunneson (of paulanowevent, formerly The Swedish Housewife Presents) brings some legendary magic to the Triple Door in Seattle. Her burlesque-cum-rock-opera, House of Thee Unholy, is “a Tolkienian…
Lola The Vamp tells a heartwarming tale from the Australian outback… Betoota, Diamantina Shire, in the Channel Country of Central Western Queensland, Australia. Population 0. The last living resident passed away ten…
The burlesque community is driven and exuberant. We push ourselves to bring our fabulous visions to life. We entertain audiences well into the wee hours of the morning at bars, theatres and…
I have just concluded a Skype call with Bella Blue, producer of The Blue Book Cabaret at Lucky Pierre’s, regarding her decision to stop working at the venue and her feelings about…
21st Century Burlesque Magazine reached out to iconic burlesque superstar Dirty Martini for her reaction to Lucky Pierre’s decision to drop burlesque performer Ruby Rage because of her size, and their public…
Back in March 2014, performers from all corners of Australia convened on Melbourne to take part in a world record attempt for 24 hours of continuous burlesque performances. Burleskathon ran from 12pm…
Entrancing Australian Sina King shares her Berlin Burlesque Festival experience… “Berlin, Berlin!” the cab driver shouts at the tourist-filled streets as he drives me to tech rehearsal. The city is bustling and…
And now, a badass public service announcement from Shan De Leers… It was so much more difficult to write this than I thought it would be. It is such a trivial thing…
Smouldering, stripping songbird Renee Holiday shares her Iowa Burlesque Festival experience… Friday October 24th Show day, 5AM. At this point I am deeply regretting my choice to drive to Iowa. At least…
Burlesque noir at its best, Pretty Haute Machine: A Burlesque Tribute to Nine Inch Nails was a gripping, if intense, tour through a songbook characterised by sex, anger, and isolation. The show…
You know the results of your international Burlesque TOP 50 2014 but I have followed up with extra bonus lists, which were so popular last year. We finish this year’s results by…
You know the results of your international Burlesque TOP 50 2014 but you went crazy for last year’s Bonus Lists and I have followed up with further lists again this year. Feel…
You know the results of your international Burlesque TOP 50 2014 but you went crazy for last year’s Bonus Lists, so stay tuned over the next week to make your TOP 50…
Enjoy this fabulous recap of the 2014 Colorado Burlesque Festival, courtesy of headliner Lola Frost! Click the link at the end to apply for this year’s festval… Thursday I walked swiftly but…
View the winning acts in this collection of Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend 2014 videos – all on one handy page! Watch Reigning Queen Midnite Martini and runner ups Medianoche and Ginger…
You know the results of your international Burlesque TOP 50 2014 but you went crazy for last year’s Bonus Lists, so stay tuned over the next week to make your TOP 50…
You know the results of your international Burlesque TOP 50 2014 but you went crazy for last year’s Bonus Lists, so stay tuned over the next week to make your TOP 50…
You know the results of your international Burlesque TOP 50 2014, but there are extra lists to come which make the most of all the voting data gathered from thousands of you…
Presenting your Burlesque TOP 50 2014 NO. 1. Please Note: The results are determined by thousands of public votes. I do not decide who makes it into this list. Please resist emailing…
[adrotate group=”1″] Presenting your TOP 3 in turn, continuing with No. 2. Please Note: The results are determined by thousands of public votes. I do not decide who makes it into this…
Presenting your TOP 3 in turn, starting with No. 3. Please Note: The results are determined by thousands of public votes. I do not decide who makes it into this list. Please…
Your 2014 Burlesque TOP 10 continues with 6 – 4. I have included information, links and footage so that you can get to know your TOP 10 better if necessary. Please Note:…
Presenting the start of your 2014 Burlesque TOP 10. I have included information, links and footage so that you can get to know your TOP 10 better if necessary. Please Note: The…
The Burlesque TOP 50 2014 continues with 20 – 11! On each results page I have included information, links and footage so that you can get to know all the people on…
The Burlesque TOP 50 2014 continues with 30 – 21… On each results page I have included information, links and footage so that you can get to know all the people on…
21st Century Burlesque Magazine editor Holli-Mae Johnson and editor-in-chief of This Is Cabaret Franco Milazzo sat down with the delightful Rosie Kohl in her cosy sitting room just before Christmas and discussed…
As we kick off a New Year – and wait for the Burlesque TOP 50 results – here is a chance to catch up on some essential burlesque reading. Here are your…
Following Dangrrr Doll’s piece earlier this week on The Cost of Burlesque, Jo Weldon presents The Value of Burlesque… Learning that you must GIVE value as well as HAVE value will help…
The Cost of Burlesque, by Dangrrr Doll. Good morning, world! In the past several days on my Facebook, which unsurprisingly has a very specific mix of naked people and nerdy people, I’ve…
Born and raised in New Orleans, Bella Blue made her burlesque debut in 2007 and established The New Orleans School of Burlesque in 2008, which hosts weekly burlesque classes. She is also…
Princess Farhana, a guest of honour at BurlyCon 2014, has performed, taught, researched and written about belly dance and burlesque since 1990. Now, 21st Century Burlesque Magazine can bring you the best…
The fabulous Cafe de Paris (London, UK) is offering 21st Century Burlesque readers VIP tickets for their new Friday night show Cabaret des Distractions, starring Reuben Kaye, Bettsie Bon Bon, Anna the…
I am sure that somebody has touched on this subject before, but I thought I would suggest my own rendition anyway! As a neo-burlesque dancer, I am often presented with assumptions about…
As the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend 2014 prepared to launch, I caught up with Burlesque TOP 50 ranking stage manager extraordinaire David Bishop, who has stage managed the New York Burlesque…
The exquisite and eloquent Lola Frost has answered my 2013 pre-BHoF Q&A, and she will take to the stage in a matter of days at the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend 2013.…
Footage of Miss Indigo Blue’s amazing handover at the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend 2012 is now available online, and you can watch it below. Burlesque Beat’s J.D. Oxblood describes the epic…
I am pleased to present an interview with the beautiful, charming and incredibly talented Melody Sweets. I finally got the chance to see Melody perform live in 2011, when I was invited…
Race and Burlesque: The curious case of the performer of colour, by Chocolat The Extraordinaire. It was around 2003 that I started going to Lady Luck Club, an underground nightclub playing vintage…
The Hurly Burly Show: Naughty But Nice!, reviewed on Tuesday 10th July. It has been so interesting following Polly Rae’s career over the past years. I recall watching Polly and her ‘Hurly…
Reigning Queen of Burlesque 2012 Imogen Kelly First Runner-Up:Ophelia Flame Second Runner-Up:Trixie Little Best Boylesque:Russell Bruner Best Debut:Ruby Joule Best Group: The Peek-A-Boo Revue Best Duo: Frenchie Kiss and Jett Adore…
![BHoF 2012 – The Road to Reigning Queen: Ophelia Flame [11/11]](https://i0.wp.com/21stcenturyburlesque.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/ophelia-thumb.jpg?resize=402%2C250&ssl=1)
As we count down to the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend, let’s find out more about the eleven talented temptresses competing for Reigning Queen! I have asked each of them about their…
![BHoF 2012 - The Road to Reigning Queen: LouLou D'vil [10/11]](https://i0.wp.com/21stcenturyburlesque.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/loulou-thumb.jpg?resize=402%2C250&ssl=1)
As we count down to the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend, let’s find out more about the eleven talented temptresses competing for Reigning Queen! I have asked each of them about their…
![BHoF 2012 - The Road to Reigning Queen: Scarlett James [9/11]](https://i0.wp.com/21stcenturyburlesque.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/scarlett-thumb.jpg?resize=402%2C250&ssl=1)
As we count down to the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend, let’s find out more about the eleven talented temptresses competing for Reigning Queen! I have asked each of them about their…
![BHoF 2012 – The Road to Reigning Queen: Coco Lectric [8/11]](https://i0.wp.com/21stcenturyburlesque.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/cocothumb.jpg?resize=402%2C250&ssl=1)
As we count down to the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend, let’s find out more about the eleven talented temptresses competing for Reigning Queen! I have asked each of them about their…
Greetings from Brooklyn! We’re back home safe and sound! Read all about our last week on the road… On April 26th we drove from Tucson, AZ to Albuquerque, NM and made a…
Click here to meet the troupe and read Minnie’s introduction… Greetings from the road! We started off on April 16th with a drive through the ‘Big Sky Country’ of Montana on our way…
There’s so much information out there that it’s impossible to ever reach a point where you’ve read, seen and heard everything there is to know about burlesque. By keeping engaged with your art, you keep your ideas moving, you keep your inspiration fresh and you keep your passion alive. By sharing your research you also help to inspire others to do the same, to keep learning, growing and becoming a better performer.
WHAT a night it was! Every category was hotly contested and a delight to witness, but the chief anticipation built up towards the start of the top category – Reigning Queen of…
In my opinion, the Debut Category was possibly the most difficult to judge this year. The acts were SO varied, and consistantly creative and well thought out – such a bewilderingly high…
In their words: “The Toronto Burlesque Festival is an exciting four-day whirlwind of bump ‘n grind! Our Festival offers a unique opportunity to experience the best of burlesque and variety entertainment. Each…