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From June 5 through 8, 2014, I was in Las Vegas, Nevada to cover the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekender, a fundraiser for the Burlesque Hall of Fame in Vegas. Burlesque performers from all over the world come together to honor their legends and peers, and to engage in a little partying. It’s the biggest event in burlesque — its “Super Bowl,” essentially — and the Reigning King and Queen of Burlesque are crowned during the Tournament of Tease, Saturday’s showcase.
The first major event of the weekend was the Movers, Shakers, and Innovators showcase in The Orleans Showroom on Thursday which featured unique, interesting performers from all over. It was kicked off by host Jonny Porkpie, Burlesque Mayor of New York City. He performed an alcohol-laden opening act and subsequently collapsed on stage. Co-host Blanche Debris had him dragged off and then led a group of dancers in a jubilant red, white, and blue dance explosion dedicated to the late Dixie Evans. Dixie was a beloved pillar of the burlesque community — a legend — who passed away on August 3, 2013 at the age of 86.
After the tribute, Baltimore’s Kay Sera was the first showcased act as Eve. She took the apple from the snake and cast off her long locks, shimmying to Guns N’ Roses. After that, Bella Blue, headmistress of the New Orleans School of Burlesque, sauntered out in a glittering body suit, contorting and flipping, peeling off her costume layer by layer. Desire d’Amour from Tuscon followed with a purple balloon dance to “Peel Me a Grape,” and next up was LA’s Bobbie Boylesque who hopped on a hoop, swinging to and fro for the entirety of his act.
Next, Miss Theresa’s music ripped through the showroom at The Orleans, dedicating her act to Puscifer. Her head piece depicted the band’s mascot, and her lighting was dark to match the music. Her costume glowed at the end — pictures don’t do it justice, really. After Miss Theresa, Sizzle Dizzle gave an emotional performance dedicated to her friend who battled cancer with positivity and joy. There wasn’t a dry eye in the place by the end. The audience gave her a standing ovation.
For more from the Movers, Shakers, and Innovators showcase check out part two.