LOUD, PROUD & HERE TO SLAY
The Australian Burlesque Festival (ABF) presents Big Tease Soirée – a huge night of delights, where feathers meet fearlessness, comedy meets commentary, and bold unapologetically meets beautiful.
WORDS ROSIE WILD
BURLESQUE IS A great night out where sparkles spellbind and tassels tease, but it’s also so much more. The ABF is glam at a global level, and it’s got something to say.
“We are the original and largest touring burlesque festival in the world, and hope to maintain our legacy of elevating this unique artform, challenging societal norms, and allowing freedom of expression,” says co-founder and co-director, Dolores Daiquiri.
Daiquiri and co-director, Cherry Velour, have created an iconic cultural powerhouse at the forefront of burlesque that not only showcases the artform, it shapes the movement.
“[We have acts] ranging from classic striptease – known for glamour, sparkles and the slow reveal – to neo-burlesque, based in satire, narrative, theatrics, and unapologetic creativity,” Daiquiri says.
Beyond this diversity of style, the ABF breaks binaries by championing a variety of cultures, identities, bodies, and abilities.
“We are very aware of including queer artists, diverse performers, and all genders, so there’s something for every audience member to enjoy, celebrate, and experience,” Daiquiri says.
This enthralling night out includes international icons, local legends, and talent from across the nation.
“Our headliners include international, multi-award-winning sensation, Zyra Lee Vanity, hailing from Canada, known for mixing Afro Caribbean and hip hop culture with glamorous burlesque, and Adelaide’s blonde bombshell, sensational Lyra La Belle, recognised for her silver screen beauty. The emcee is the talented Tash York from Melbourne, a cabaret star, incredible singer, and comedic genius,” Daiquiri says.
“We love to showcase local talent. In Alice Springs, the amazing local troupe, Desert Diamonds, are joining us, and Arcane Fable debut a new act. In Darwin, we have Darwin Divine Dancers. Millie Devine, the headmistress, is our featured artist this year, and well-deserved.”
Burlesque entertainment is a revolution in rhinestones – every kind of body can take the stage and own it, and every performer has a style to make you laugh, cheer or gasp.
“We hope … everyone has a fabulous, positive and entertaining night out, and people walk away feeling satisfaction, connection, and part of something special.”
The Australian Burlesque Festival | Big Tease Soiree
Alice Springs
WHEN FRI 24 OCT | 7.30PM
AT ARALUEN ARTS CENTRE
COST $70-$85
INFO araluenartscentre.nt.gov.au
Darwin
WHEN SAT 25 OCT | 8PM
AT AANT CENTRE
COST $70-$85
INFO yourcentre.com.au
Image: Brennan Finighan
