introducing burlesque top 50: ones to watch
Jezebel Express, creator of Burlesque TOP 50: Ones to Watch, by AB Sesay
The Burlesque TOP 50: whether you love it or look sideways at it, you probably don’t ignore it! The list serves as a pulse check of our industry’s values and reflects our current darlings. But it’s not exempt from critique, either: one common refrain is that a popular vote is always going to highlight and celebrate the people who are… well, already popular.
I love that the Burlesque TOP 50 highlights the most influential, in part because it can be powerful for folks to make the list and realize that their actions really do matter. But I also know there are MANY incredible artists out there who don’t receive the recognition they deserve.
I thought, ‘What if the TOP 50 had the chance to use their influence for good and pull another performer into the spotlight with them?’ And this year, 21st Century Burlesque helped me make that happen.
Welcome to the first ever Ones To Watch – a curated list of artists the 2024 Burlesque TOP 50 nominated when we asked them, ‘Who does the world need to know about?’ Everyone on the TOP 50 2024 was asked to submit one name, and I have NEVER seen anyone more excited to hype their fellow artists! A few performers asked if they could submit two nominations (or nominate a duo), and since a few people opted out of nominating someone, we ended up with a perfect list of 50.
Uplifting our peers is beautiful, important and powerful, and I was honored to have a hand in helping some of burlesque’s heavy hitters do that this year. Congratulations to everyone who made the list – we can’t wait to watch you shine!
Jezebel Express
burlesque top 50 2024: ones to watch
Nominees presented in random order with testimonials from their TOP 50 2024 champions.
Felicity Felicis
(BERLIN, GERMANY)
“Felicity Felicis is a superstar! Mixing 60s and 70s rock and roll with bumps and grinds creates unforgettable performances. She’s also a trained fire performer and a wonderful producer and model. A British babe living in Berlin. Book her!”
Veronica Bonderud
(VANCOUVER, CANADA)
“Veronica’s work helps so many artists in Vancouver feel truly seen, celebrated and beautiful. On top of all that, she is part of the official media team for BHOF and her photos are absolutely breathtaking. She captures everyone with the same care and artistry – not just the winners, making every performer feel like a star.”
Rain Supreme
(NEW YORK, USA)
Abby Fantastic
(NEW YORK, USA)
“Abby is a brilliant performer! If she is on stage you will not be able to look away. From her dazzling smile to the sizzling moves, Abby is everything burlesque should be and more! Bonus points for each time she tosses a costume piece into the rigging on the ceiling!”
Aquarius Moon
(WASHINGTON DC, USA)
“She is a powerhouse wrapped in a mink stole, absolutely amazing to watch on and off stage. Her personality alone is stellar, but to see how her mind works in regards to upgrading what we do in this field is so impressive.”
Celesta O'Lee
(MONTREAL, CANADA)
“Célesta is a captivating performer whose passion for the stage is matched by her dedication to building community: co-founding Imperial Burlesque Canada – Montreal’s first international burlesque competition, and producing powerful shows that uplift and unite diverse voices in the art form.”
Lilly Rascal
(CHICAGO, USA)
“Lilly Rascal is a bad-ass instructor, entertainer and producer. I love how much care and knowledge Lilly pours into her local Chicago community, especially when it comes to offering alternative spaces and opportunities for new folks in the scene. And off stage she’s a great example of someone who embodies friendship, leadership, and work ethic.”
Misty Rose
(florida, USA)
“This performer is one to watch because they always bring fiery energy and passion to the stage! Their stage presence is incredibly powerful, and their dedication to their artistry is truly admirable!”
Kitty Littéur
(perth, australia)
“If you’re not following Kitty Littéur yet, you’re missing out on a masterclass in genius comedy burlesque, and unapologetic originality. With a heart of gold and a brain full of brilliance, she’ll make you laugh, gasp, and cheer, sometimes all at once!”
Dasha Cayenne
(san francisco, USA)
Coco Gateaux
(washington, USA)
“She blends traditional promotion with content creation to spotlight local shows and her own artistry, leading to brand deals and strong audience engagement. With both sharp marketing and undeniable talent, she’s a performer worth booking – and she’s just getting started.”
The Maine Attraction
(new york, USA)
“Someone that I haven’t seen represented on the list, who has performed in New York with a long and extensive career in theater and burlesque, is The Maine Attraction. She has performed in nearly every venue in New York that has hosted Burlesque.”
Xochii de la Noche
(long beach, USA)
“Xochii is multi talented and diverse with incredible stage presence. Everyone needs to know who she is! She is everything: brains, beauty, culture, and a formidable teaser.”
Qing Blaze
(richmond, USA)
“A draglesque king in Richmond, Virginia exuding sex appeal, intellectual prowess, and high class raunchy art.”
Hoochie Mane
(chicago, USA)
“I’d love to nominate Hoochie Mane for her willingness to disrupt the art form with her chaotic sense of humor, and ability to be vulnerable despite the presence of fear.”
Harley Phoenix
(london, uk)
“Harley Phoenix is not only an incredible performer, but also a true activist of diversity, inclusion and equality. Her work with Cabaret Identitease has given a platform to many queer disabled/chronically ill/neurodivergent performers, and she continuously provides unconditional support to others.”
Elyse Elaine
(las vegas, USA)
“This babe wears multiple hats with skill and sparkle: chanteuse, producer, teacher, and powerful performer! ‘The Marilyn With Melanin’ has been creating spaces that celebrate Black femmes for years, and she deserves widespread recognition and all the flowers.”
Madame Meduse
(warsaw, poland)
“Madame Meduse is a force of nature. Her hard work and dedication to creating a beautiful queer space where burlesque is celebrated in many different ways really left a long lasting impression on me. She is a delight to be around and a rockstar on stage. Kind, talented, resourceful, and above all a truly inspiring individual.”
Petty Treason
(minneapolis, usa)
“This Twin Titties powerhouse brings the drama to the stage every single show! Their productions are high concept, hilarious and inclusive, and they’re a core community member that makes our scene better. They shine a spotlight on so many others that it’s nice to be able to shine a spotlight on them!”
Ivory Fox
(new york, usa)
“In an industry that disproportionately favors the femme presenting, Ivory Fox’s take on high glam masculinity is incredibly refreshing. Fox is also one of the most professional and thoughtful emcees in the country, with vocals that constantly blow audiences away!”
Madame De Freitas
(rome, italy)
“Maria is a powerhouse – a total all-rounder in the burlesque and variety world. She sings, hosts, performs burlesque, and creates the most incredible costumes. She’s been doing this work quietly but steadily for years, building a unique space and a truly vibrant artistic community. She is 100% a ‘One To Watch’.”
Baevocative
(vancouver, canada)
“Baevocative isn’t just an amazing performer – they’re also a powerhouse media maven who plays a huge role in capturing and sharing the magic of our scene! From snapping stunning photos to filming unforgettable moments at festivals and beyond, they ensure our community has access to high-quality, professional content quickly and beautifully.”
HIBARI
(poland\japan)
“Even before the current style of burlesque was popular in Japan, Hibari started events featuring burlesque dancers, and continues to produce them in various forms today. She has a deep knowledge of not only burlesque but entertainment in general, and I have learned a lot from her.”
Ezme Pump
(london, uk)
“I’m nominating Ezme Pump as one to watch for her vibrant fusion of comedy, charm, and unapologetic sexiness, all delivered with buckets of cheeky charisma. A rising star in the neo-burlesque scene, her infectious stage presence and fierce dedication to the art form make her a standout new talent.”
Venessa Chevelle
(richmond, usa)
“Incredible performer and powerhouse producer who advocates for diversity and has been creating the scene she wanted to see for nearly a decade. Her shows have platformed, if not inspired a lot of the great talent coming out of the city.”
Synamin Vixen
(new orleans, usa)
“Synamin Vixen is a beacon of authenticity, passion, and spirit in our community. As a producer, teacher, writer, poet, practitioner, artist, dancer, and culture bearer in the city of New Orleans, they move with a power and presence that’s a balm on the soul. Anytime they stand, move – breathe on the stage is a blessing and a light to bask in.”
Purris Stilton
(omaha, usa)
“Purris encapsulates what I love most about Burlesque – technique, connection, and creativity. She’s one to watch because she brings an element of burlesque which is wildly underexplored – a full commitment to not taking oneself too seriously. She knows silly is sexy, and we are all the better for it.”
Dawn Voz
(leicester, uk)
“Dawn is an upcoming UK performer who has captivated so many people’s hearts. Her raw and authentic style makes her a truly inspiring artist. Beyond her talent she’s also an absolute sweetheart, the ultimate package deal and someone I look forward to watching grow over the years to come.”
Miami Minx
(montreal, canada)
“This performer has absolutely captivating stage presence and energy, and their dedication to their art is truly inspiring. Their passion for burlesque can be clearly seen in their memorizing acts!”
Heather & Lace
(cleveland, usa)
“Heather and Lace are comedic powerhouses and unstoppable forces in Ohio’s burlesque scene, known for their brilliantly witty acts and fierce dedication to uplifting their community. They’ve redefined nerdlesque with wildly inventive numbers and unforgettable theatrical flair.”
Winter Greene
(melbourne, australia)
“A truly beautiful person inside and out, it’s been so amazing to watch Winter push boundaries and carve a path for non-binary and masc trans people in the world of burlesque while keeping true to their teenage emo style. We all look forward to seeing where this art continues to take you!”
Andy Rose
(san francisco, usa)
“She’s the sweetest ‘bad bitch of burlesque’. She lights up whatever stage she’s on, and her positive energy radiates backstage. She always shines, and she makes it a priority to help everyone around her shine too.”
Kuya Atay
(toronto, canada)
“In just a few years, Kuya has proven themselves an undeniable ‘One to Watch!’ Their inventive visual sensibilities, power-house stage presence, and caring and compassionate personality backstage should be putting them on everyone’s radar!”
Fou Fou Kaboom
(uk)
“Fou Fou Kaboom is definitely one to watch! She’s a performer who cares about the history of what she does, the work itself and the community. Her acts are always so imaginative and she has such a carefree, yet intoxicating aurora when she performs.”
Sgt. Die Wies
(oakland, usa)
“Sgt. Die Wies has been in the burlesque world for years as performer, producer and overall hype person. She’s been the one to watch since the beginning with her high energy, fun and creative performances, but I want her to get the flowers she’s deserved for so long. She’s done so much for the community and continues to be bright shining star.”
Joy Rider
(montreal, canada)
“Seeing the care, professionalism and kindness that Joy Rider brings to her art form is nothing short of inspiring. She is deeply passionate about the art she creates and the community to which she belongs. It has been a real honour watching her grow into the artist that she is and I have no doubt that she will continue to accomplish great things.”
Albadoro Gala
(rome, italy)
“Albadoro Gala is a performer par excellence. Her skill, choreography and costuming are truly exceptional, and many of her students have won awards at BHoF.”
Kitty Obsidian
(melbourne, australia)
“Kitty Obsidian is amazing. This First Nations Australian performer is so fierce and talented, and they do really important work as a teacher and activist. Everyone needs to know about them!”
Basjia
(sydney, australia)
“Basjia is re-directing and redefining what it is to be a burlesque artist in Australia. She melts, moves and captivates like no one else I have ever seen, and she is doing really incredible work behind the scenes. Basjia is creating and carving out space, exploring and learning, and doing it all with power and grace.”
Layna D’Luna
(st louis, usa)
“I have watched Layna develop into a legit triple-threat (performer, producer, and costumer) who is dedicated to the history and evolution of this art form. From tongue-in-cheek burlesque to her influence on metalesque, she is THE Glam Reaper to so many and deserves her flowers any day of the week.”
Sailem
(new orleans, usa)
“Sailem is a queer, Black, and multi-talented performer noted for their simultaneously inviting yet disarming style of performance. I feel they deserve to be highlighted not just as a burlesque performer, but as an overall badass artist with skills and grit who gives their all in everything they do.”
Sneaky Boo
(argentina\usa)
“Sneaky took the leap into burlesque not too long ago, and her passion, beauty, art, style, edge and musicality is all there waiting to be seen and devoured by an audience – no hesitation, no censorship. She is 1020% herself onstage and has the potential to be an amazing performer.”
Simone Del Mar
(new orleans, usa)
“Simone is one to watch because she is a multi-talented entertainer and fantastic producer who has taken the LA and New Orleans scenes by storm!”
Emma Jewel
(florida, usa)
“Emma is as fierce, loving and joyful onstage as she is off stage. And when you watch, experience and converse with her, she challenges you and our community to do better by way of her example. She is the moment.”
Serefina Taylor
(birmingham, uk)
“Serefina is an absolute dream to work with; she truly understands the art form and what we need to shine on stage. Her designs don’t just fit perfectly, they elevate your performance. Since wearing her work, my career has grown in both confidence and visibility. I can’t recommend her enough.”
Switch the Boi Wonder
(chicago, usa)
“Switch is an absolutely phenomenal performer. Their presence and talent are as enormous as their heart. They perform acts that are both entertaining and incredibly moving, and they teach the next generation of drag through their Haus of Wonder. They’ve been incredible in the scene for some time, but I need everyone to know their name.”
Mr Wesley Dykes
(london, uk)
“Mr Wesley Dykes is a non-binary Drag King Burlesque artist who honours accessibility in their acts and appeals to all senses… and all sexes! Their work is boundary pushing, access inclusive and reclaims an exploration of being an African Queer in Britain.”
D'Monica Leone
(seattle, usa)
“D’Monica has been the ‘One to Watch’ for a long time now! They are a high energy performer, a shape shifter with a makeup brush, produce a monthly show for new performers, and an educator. They have so much heart and passion for this artform and our community.”
Miss Texas 1988
(seattle, usa)
“Miss Texas 1988 has a profound way of being able to leave an audience captivated, shocked, in tears, and/or laughing until it hurts. Their work blends and blurs the lines of drag and burlesque while pushing the envelope of what is possible as a performing artist. Texas deconstructs the concepts of reveals and tease while building them back up in her own twisted, brilliant way.”
lucinda b hind
(london, uk)
“A fearless and unique drag-burlesque performer whose work is both powerful and inspiring, Lucinda’s acts combine athleticism with authentic showgirl poise, with every move perfectly timed and full of musicality. She brings stunning lines, gorgeous costumes, and a strong sense of confidence to the stage. With her background in circus and aerial, her performances are polished, professional, and delivered with striking precision.“
The Burlesque TOP 50 2025 season is coming soon. In the meantime, follow 21st Century Burlesque on Instagram for news, views and updates, and check out previous charts here.