Burlesque is back. The tawdry, seductive art of striptease is coming Feb. 8 to The Varsity Theatre. The show will feature pin-up star and burlesque performer Dita Von Teese and the musical styling of Righteous Buddha.
“We’re trying to do something completely different with this show,” said Chris Lundgren, talent buyer for The Varsity Theatre. “Something that’s probably never been done in Baton Rouge.”
To give audience members a unique experience, The Varsity Theatre will attempt to recreate the feel of a classy 1950s lounge. This includes importing a large wine selection, cheese trays and revamping the interior of the Varsity for a more intimate, upscale atmosphere, Lundgren said.
Von Teese will perform two different acts. One will be a feather fan dance that has become almost a tradition in burlesque and the other will involve a five-foot Martini glass and an olive-shaped sponge, Lundgren said.
Burlesque has its roots in early 19th and 20th century American history, where it contained anything from risqué comedy sketches to singing and, of course, the striptease. However, it seemed to all but disappear during the 1940s and ’50s, according to www.musicals101.com.
“Burlesque seems to be more of a musical show than a striptease,” said Lukas Zarychta, a geography senior. “The only burlesque I’ve seen is in the movies, but I’d like to see this one at the Varsity.”
Von Teese has been seen in more than 30 issues of Playboy and other magazines. She has become famous for her work to revitalize the art of burlesque entertainment and has toured internationally performing burlesque shows.
Righteous Buddha will provide the musical ambience for the performance. Righteous Buddha is a local organ trio with a funky lounge beat. The band features David Hinson on upright bass, Chris DeJohn on drums and John Smart on the organ.
“I didn’t even know that it was coming, but I think that it’s a pretty cool idea,” said Rachel All, a biochemistry junior. “Maybe Baton Rouge is moving up in the world.”
The tickets for the show are $10 and the doors open at 8 p.m. Tickets are available for advance purchase at The Varsity or online via their Web site. Because of the close, intimate lounge setting, seating will be limited. The show is only for those 21 and older.
For more information, go to The Varsity’s Web site at www.varsitytheatre.com or for pictures of Dita’s work, visit her Web site at www.dita.net.