Experience a Unique Night at the Top Burlesque Bar in Las Vegas
Las Vegas is a place that has lots to offer. It was recently ranked as one of the nation’s top “foodie” cities, but it is no secret that most people come for the casinos and unmatched entertainment. There is a lot to choose from though, so it can be difficult to know where to start.
If you are looking for entertainment that is a bit of a departure from the norm, consider a burlesque bar. It can be a welcome shift from traditional Las Vegas nightlife and entertainment.
Below is a brief history of this unique art form, as well as some information on modern burlesque. Keep reading to find out more about what to expect from a memorable night at the top burlesque bar in Las Vegas.
A Brief History of Burlesque Shows
Burlesque shows originated as a genre of theatrical entertainment that became popular in Victorian England and eventually migrated to New York theaters in the mid-19th century. “Victorian burlesque” was typically a parody of a well-known opera or piece of classical theater or ballet. The risque nature of the burlesque show was meant to mock the seriousness of the original piece.
Burlesque became widely popular in the United States in the 1860s. Over the decades, it evolved to showcase risque comedy and female nudity. In the 1920s prohibition era, burlesque shows were often combined with the clandestine nature of speakeasies (that served alcohol illicitly).
During the 1930s, Hollywood began to recreate elements of burlesque through film. In many ways, this contributed to a decline in the shows’ popularity.
Since the 1990s, there has been a resurgent interest in burlesque. This may be attributable to the unique empowerment and self-expression the genre brings to performers, and the distinct experience it offers to audiences.
Today, the format of burlesque is as unique as ever. In most shows, there is at least some fusion of traditional burlesque formats with modern themes.
What to Expect From a Burlesque Show?
As mentioned, there are all types of burlesque shows today. However, there are some common characteristics that most share. These include:
- Entertainment
- Drinks
- Comedy
- Sexual content
- Audience interaction
Entertainment
Burlesque is, at its core, lively and entertaining. It almost always includes some type of singing and live music. Some shows might have a live band.
There is an elevated level of glamour at burlesque shows. Lavish costumes with sequins, feathers, corsets, and fishnet stockings are a major part of the visual appeal of the show. Extravagant set aesthetics are also common.
Many burlesque performances incorporate dance. Typical choreography involves classic jazz, Americana, or swing, but you can also find contemporary performances, such as those with “sci-fi,” “steampunk,” or “rock and roll” themes. Some burlesque shows may devote an entire evening to a theme, while others have different stand-alone performances throughout the evening.
Drinks
In keeping with the speakeasy settings of the early 20th century, burlesque shows are often in a bar or cocktail lounge setting. Some shows feature dinner or other types of meal options as well, though these are less common.
Certainly, not everyone who attends a burlesque bar is expected to imbibe. However, a central piece of many shows is being set in a speakeasy or cocktail lounge environment.
Comedy
Comedy is also a central element of most burlesque shows. It is worth mentioning that, with some exceptions, you can expect crass humor.
Satirical content is typical, including poking fun at cultural norms and stereotypes. The show may very well include routines that parody cultural figures, politicians, and celebrities, as well as social issues of the day.
Sexual Content
Another central component of burlesque is performers dressed in provocative attire and/or removing pieces of clothing. Not all burlesque shows have nudity, though many do.
Most burlesque shows do at least feature sexualized themes, such as teasing or temptation, to engage the audience. Keep in mind that the goal of most performances is artistic expression, in addition to enticing and entertaining the crowd.
While this is the case, burlesque shows tend to maintain a respectful environment. Sexuality is often a central component, but it is only one aspect of the performance.
Audience Interaction
A final commonality among most burlesque shows is engagement with the audience. Performers might flirt with or otherwise playfully interact with audience members. Even if this is not the case, most shows encourage the crowd to cheer and clap or even sing along with the performers.
What Makes 1923 Prohibition Bar’s Burlesque Unique?
1923 Prohibition Bar is a speakeasy with two locations–Mandalay Bay and the Venetian–on the Vegas strip. You can expect to find premium spirits and specialty cocktails served in a swanky, secluded lounge.
At both our locations, we feature live music and burlesque. Currently, our theme is “NOLA Nights,” which provides an authentic New Orleans speakeasy experience. There is no need for a passcode, but you do have to locate the bookcase to access a step back into the historical Big Easy.
We offer this unique ambiance during our regular cocktail lounge hours, seven days a week, but our shows are on Friday and Saturday evenings, from 9:00 until midnight. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis, but you can book V.I.P. reservations for a table that seats between four and six people.
The package includes two drinks per person and extends to specialty cocktails, as well as beer, wine, champagne, and shots. It also includes a digital group photo taken in a private section by our on-site photographer.
You can also expect to be recognized during the show. Reservations fill up fast, so be sure to book yours soon to see the best burlesque show in Vegas.
Learn More About Vegas’ Best Burlesque Bar
Now that you understand the basics of a burlesque bar, you will know what to expect on your first experience. This unique entertainment and art form can provide loads of fun and intrigue for date nights or group outings.
1923 Prohibition Bar is a hidden gem but one of the top bars in Las Vegas. We feature nightly shows, including piano players, burlesque dancers, and magic shows.
We also offer private events that are perfect for small groups looking for a unique cocktail lounge experience. Go online to read more about 1923 bourbon bar events or Vegas burlesque shows, or to make a reservation.
