Photo by Ken Penn.
Deanna Danger performs at the Byrd Theatre in Richmond.
Our profile of strongman Rusty Bolts examines the renaissance of vaudeville and burlesque in Virginia. Here is a guide to upcoming burlesque events from around the Commonwealth to help you get in on all the action.
Ellie Quinn Presents: Adorkable, Richmond
Jan. 10, 8 p.m.
Gallery5Arts.org
The self-proclaimed Duchess of Dork pulls together an impressive roster of neo-vaudevillians, including host Jim Dandy, “for a night of silly, sexy, fun burlesque” performed by “the most adorkable girls in town.” $10 in advance, $15 at the door
The RVA Cabaret, Richmond
Jan. 30, 9 p.m.
Gallery5Arts.org, Facebook.com/RVACabaret
This burlesque and variety show, produced by Deanna Danger, features talent from around the DMV, with all proceeds going to Gallery 5. $10 advance, $15 at the door
Sweethearts for the Arts: Garden of Earthly Delights, Richmond
Feb. 7, 8 p.m.
ArtOnWheels-Va.org
Get bawdy for a cause at the sixth annual Sweethearts for the Arts. Benefiting Art on Wheels, the event features burlesque and vaudeville acts produced by Deepa Du Jour and the Richmond Burlesque Revue, as well as games, a dessert buffet and sets crafted by local artists.
The Boom Boom Room Burlesque Variety Show, Charlottesville
Every 2nd Friday, 10 p.m.
Impulse-GSC.org
Bellydances and hula hoops abound at this Charlottesville variety show, where burlesque stars like Deanna Danger (who also serves as the show’s producer) and Scarlet Starlet snap their garters and roll down their stockings. $10 for members, $15 for non-members
Burlesque-a-Pades, Alexandria
Feb. 14, 7:30 p.m.
TheBirchmere.com
Featuring “reining queen of burlesque” Angie Pontani and the World Famous Pontani sisters, this touring show lands in Alexandria for a sensual performance on the most romantic day of the year. $29.50
The Vice and Virtue Revue, Charlottesville and Norfolk
Feb. 14, Charlottesville; February 15, Norfolk
JeffersonTheater.com, NaroCinema.com
What do you get when you combine the jazzy New Orleans sounds of the Soggy Po Boys and a full on cabaret cast? The latest production from Zhora Nova and Ophelia Derriere, showing at The Jefferson in Charlottesville on Valentine’s Day and migrating to Norfolk’s Naro Cinema the next day. $12-17
Mason Dixie Burlesque Tour, Washington, D.C., and Richmond
Feb. 13, Washington, D.C.; Feb. 14, Richmond
BlackCatDC.com, MasonDixieBurlesque.com
The Mason Dixie Burlesque Tour comes to Black Cat and Gallery 5 for a sassy but classy performance of neo-burlesque in all its now-you-see-it-now-you-don’t glory. The show stars Deanna Danger, Üla Überbusen and Hazel Honeysuckle in a night of cheeky fun.
