At Scarlett Gasque, we think everyone should experience the thrill of a burlesque show at least once in their lifetime – they’re a big part of the inspiration behind our timeless lingerie and stunning corsetry after all! That’s why we’ve put together this list of must-see burlesque shows in the UK. Whether you're a burlesque enthusiast or a complete newbie, these are shows you don’t want to miss!
What to expect from a burlesque show…
Burlesque is an iconic form of entertainment that rose to popularity in 1840s America. It began as a form of parody musical theatre and evolved into a dance of defiance and a celebration of the female form. From intimate cabarets to extravagant stage productions, you can expect the unexpected at a burlesque show today.
Think sultry performances, risqué humour and elaborate costumes that leave you wanting more, more, more… Just remember, while there's plenty of fun and flirtation to be had, it's all in good taste. Treat the performers and staff like the stars they are, and you'll be in for a night to remember!
8 Must-See Burlesque Shows in the UK
From the vibrant streets of London and Brighton to the eclectic stages of Edinburgh and beyond, we’re taking you on a journey through the glitz and glamour of burlesque entertainment in the UK! Here are 8 of Scarlett’s favourite burlesque shows. Don’t miss out!
Cellar Door in Covent Garden, London
Cellar Door is an intimate, speakeasy-style bar that can be found beneath the Aldwych in the heart of Covent Garden. With weekly burlesque shows and a seductive and mysterious atmosphere that transports you back to the Roaring 20s and 1930s Berlin, Cellar Door is the perfect place to experience the magic of burlesque. It’s a world of seduction and mystery…
Secret Burlesque Society at Proud Cabaret, Brighton
The Secret Burlesque Society are proud residents of Proud Cabaret in Brighton! You can find this electric group performing every Saturday night, delivering breathtaking shows alongside mouthwatering bites to eat and cocktails that are to die for. If you’re looking for the perfect introduction to the mystery, glamour and revelry of burlesque, this is the perfect show for you…
Best of Burlesque at Edinburgh Fringe Festival
Best of Burlesque is the longest running burlesque show at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and this year they’re returning for the tenth time! Since 2013, Best of Burlesque have been celebrating diversity and showcasing the beauty of different bodies through cabaret, burlesque, and more. It's a show that dazzles with new acts every few nights, so each time you go it's a fresh experience. If you’re heading to Fringe this year, don’t miss out!
Bad Bunny Burlesque at The Fitzgerald, Manchester
Vintage drinking den The Fitzgerald is situated in Manchester’s Northern Quarter and hosts the Bad Bunny Burlesque Bottomless Brunch on the first Saturday of every month! This raunchy 1920s-themed brunch provides two hours of sensational entertainment featuring the talented ladies from Siren Entertainment alongside other Fitzgerald regulars. Tickets include two hours of non-stop fun, bottomless drinks and a mouthwatering brunch dish.
Gin House Burlesque at Kings Head Members Club, London
Hosted at the Kings Head Members Club, Gin House Burlesque is a critically acclaimed event that’s now in its eighth year. You can expect one of the hottest burlesque shows in town when you open the doors to this vintage space. Step into 1932, where gin flows freely and the Gin House ladies reign supreme, including our beloved Gasque Girl, Miss Betsy Rose!
The Gilded Merkin: Burlesque & Cabaret at Glee Club, Birmingham
If you’re looking to be dazzled, check out The Gilded Merkin: Burlesque and Cabaret at the Glee Club in Birmingham. Produced by Midlands-based burlesque performer Scarlett Daggers, each show is a masterpiece with an eclectic blend of old Hollywood glamour, comedy, music, circus, and more. From the moment the curtains rise, you'll be transported into a world of exhilarating entertainment for a night you’ll never forget.
Newcastle Burlesque Festival in Newcastle upon Tyne
If you’re in or around the area in September this year, make sure you show your face at the second ever Newcastle Burlesque Festival! Presented by Trixie Blue of House of Trixie Blue and taking place in various venues throughout the city, this festival will showcase a mixture of local talent and international headliners, both online and live. Expect a heady concoction of humour, glam and utter revelry!
Big Band Burlesque at Toulouse Lautrec, London
If you’re looking for a candle-lit night of classy cabaret, check out Big Band Burlesque at Toulouse Lautrec in Kennington, South London. Hosted by the sensational Oriana Curls, you can expect a full night of live jazz alongside performances from burlesque stars Beatrix Valhalla and Belle de Beauvoir. It's a night of dazzling entertainment that brings the roaring spirit of the 1920s back to life!
Bring the beauty of burlesque to your bedroom!
Scarlett Gasque was born from a love of all things vintage. That’s why we’re combining the provocative styles of burlesque performers with the feminine glamour of 1940s pin-up girls and the modern craftsmanship of today to empower 21st century women all around the world. Shop our range of luxury silk corsets and show-stopping lingerie now, so that you can be a burlesque girl every single day!