Burlesque Takes Off In Vegas, Literally
Webster’s Dictionary defines burlesque as “a kind of entertainment that was popular in the U.S. in the late 19th and early 20th centuries… that included funny performances, singing, dancing… sometimes performances in which women took off their clothes.”
Burlesque has become a buzzword over the last few years. But in Vegas, there is a strong burlesque community thriving in front of and behind the spotlight. Every weekend in Las Vegas you can find yourself at a burlesque performance, whether it be on the Strip or off of it. Either way, Sin City is taking it off for tourists and locals alike. Check out our list of some of the best, newest and, umm, most bizarre burlesque shows today.
PinUp
This sexy burlesque show is modeled around the classic pinup girls of the 1940s – 1960s. Normally former Playboy Playmate Claire Sinclair leads the show, but right now through July 31, you can see Sabina Kelley, the International Pin Up Model as she performs as a guest star for the show. With a live band, singing and dancing, you’ll enjoy this burlesque-inspired number at The Stratosphere Casino, Hotel & Tower. 2000 S. Las Vegas Blvd., Las Vegas 89104
Zombie Burlesque
This wildly unusual take on the normal burlesque theme is not only fun and funny, but sexy to boot. Set in 1958 Nevada during the atomic era, Club Z features a live band with various performances ranging from an undead cowboy rodeo, a stand-up comedy routine, a giant man-eating zombie women, and an acrobatic performance to none other than the Cranberries “Zombie.” Head to Planet Hollywood Las Vegas Resort & Casino to see this show, which is nothing like you’ll ever experience. 3667 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Las Vegas 89109
X Burlesque
More of a modern-day burlesque show, X Burlesque pushes the boundaries of burlesque by including dance numbers to songs from Metallica, Christina Aguilera, Led Zeppelin and more. It’s definitely a steamy show that takes the sensual side of the average Vegas Strip show to new heights. Find this little number inside of the Flamingo Hotel and Casino. 3555 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Las Vegas 89109
1923 Bourbon & Burlesque
An instant crowd pleaser, 1923 Bourbon & Burlesque is located in a hidden speakeasy inside Mandalay Bay Hotel & Casino. Combining burlesque vignettes randomly throughout the evening, you can enjoy an Old Fashioned at the bar as the vivacious lounge singer, Skye, works the crowd between acts. 3950 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Las Vegas 89119
Live Burlesque in Las Vegas
If you want to see what the local Las Vegas burlesque scene is all about, then Live Burlesque in Las Vegas at Boomers Bar (off the Strip) is the place to get the inside scoop. Created by Cha Cha Velour – considered the mother hen of Las Vegas burlesque – this show features a wide variety of acts that are never the same and never boring. It’s true, local talent at its finest and a definite must-see if you’re in town when one of the shows is slated to run. Just note, these shows sell out quickly, so get there early. Check here for their schedule. 3200 W. Sirius Ave., Las Vegas 89102
Nerdlesque
From Star Wars to Star Trek and everything in between, Nerdlesque is a local, rather underground version of burlesque. The often unpredictable shows take the best of nerd-themed numbers and the sexy style of dance to a new level of geeky fun. These shows are monthly at The Sci Fi Center of Las Vegas. Check here to find show schedules. 600 East Sahara Ave. #13, Las Vegas
Brunchlesque
This quarterly burlesque show takes the best of pancakes and pasties by combining them two into a breakfast meets burlesque show. The shows are always different, with a high-level of production put into them and feature some local and some visiting burlesque performers. Brunchlesque can be found quarterly at Boomers Bar. 3200 W. Sirius Ave., Las Vegas 89102
