We’re setting the standard for Burlesque by re-imagining ideas of sexy.
We’re writing a new narrative for Burlesque.
What we think when we hear the word burlesque is the Minsky era of the strip tease: usually performed by a woman for male audiences in New York’s roaring 20s era. You might be surprised that this burlesque variety debuted at the end of the genre’s golden age.
Burlesque is a lot older than we believe it to be. Its roots date back hundreds of years and often included variety and humor—a history rooted in satire and making fun of established aristocracy. Not catering to it. Burlesque’s resurgence in the 90s, and much of burlesque today, still alludes to the Minsky era. Chorus lines. Exclusive hotel entertainment. Themed corporate parties.
See this bad bitch right here? This is Jean Idelle, a Burlesque legend in the 1950s.
What we see in our burlesque world are excited audiences and people eager to celebrate gender expression, sexuality, parody, and diversity. What we don’t see is venues and producers giving the people what they want.
Many venues still hire one type of person for gigs, and in the 21st century, we still see shows all over the world cast primarily thin white femme bodies in sparkly outfits. This is sexy! But there’s a whole world they’re missing out on. That’s why we created the Naughty Menagerie.
Photo by Emma Mattson
Meet the Founders of the DMV Burlesque Troupe
Our shows get back to Burlesque’s roots.
Ushering in a proclaimed variety of sexual expression to our stage, we’re reimagining sexy, guiding casual performers, and welcoming established entertainers. The best part? We create a supportive community of folks who feel empowered exactly as they are. We’re writing a new narrative for burlesque. Reintroducing its provocative roots, our contributions write a new history for the future.
Our Manifesto
We work with venues that support inclusion.
We engage diverse talent from all age ranges 21+, body types, skin colors, and genders. Our mission is to bring the original idea of inclusiveness back to Burlesque with a fresh contemporary twist. Our shows are in queer-friendly bars, restaurants, and creative spaces that resonate with this mission.
Sound like you?
