The evening, which certainly will have its ribald moments, is billed as “a competitive night of woman-friendly, body-positive neo-burlesque that is full of amazing contestants.”
One of the most interesting developments in local club entertainment over the past few years has been the burlesque shows that seem to pop up at various times.
These increasingly popular and frequent performances have a natural attraction due to the curiosity/sensuality factor, but there is also an aspect of empowerment to them for some of the women who engage in these dance showcases, which can be exotic, erotic, comedic or all three (and more).
While there are plenty of professional and semi-professional burlesque performers up and down the Pioneer Valley, there are also amateur shows, such as the upcoming "Tassel Tussle" from Bon Appetite Burlesque on April 13.
The event, which will be held at the World War II Club (The Deuce) in Northampton, will be the third such annual amateur competition and will pit 12 pre-registered contestants against one another, battling for cash prizes, glory, and the chance to become part of Bon Appetit's regular rotation of performers.
Each performer will prepare one neo-burlesque strip tease and be judged by four guest judges: Amy Gardiner of Art Party Studio, Mary Bowen of Off The Map Tattoo, Deana Apua'latl of MicMac Mechanical Insulation, and Raven Renegade of Bon Appetit Burlesque. Contestants will be evaluated on criteria such as stage presence, act creation, costuming, and comedic timing. The evening, which certainly will have its ribald moments, is billed as “a competitive night of woman-friendly, body-positive neo-burlesque that is full of amazing contestants.”
Some of the contestants have been training via a burlesque workshop at Art Party Studio, while others have been preparing on their own. Which strategy will emerge triumphant? You'll have to attend to find out.
The fun will begin at 9 p.m., with doors opening at 8 p.m.
You can buy tickets at www.brownpapertickets.com, or at the door while supplies last. Guests can also reserve a VIP table by emailing info@nohoburlesque.com. VIP tables seat up to six people and cost $20 per group (plus the general admission fee).
The evening will also feature visual art from Off The Map Tattoo and additional prizes for the audience from Oh My! A Sensuality Shop and Off The Map Tattoo.
Admission is $10, and $15 for VIP seats (while supplies last). Music will be provided by DJ Rolo and the show will be hosted by the inimitable Hors D'oeuvres. The WWII Club is located at 50 Conz St.
Scouting report
The Toasted Owl Tavern in Northampton is currently holding its second annual Buffalo Wing Eating Contest. The qualifying rounds started April 3, but fear not: If you think you have the right stuff to stuff yourself with chicken, you have the next three Wednesdays (April 10, 17, and 24) to prove yourself. The finals will then be held on May 1. For more information, check in with a bartender or server at The Owl. The tavern is located at 21 Main St.
Paula Poundstone is coming to the Hu Ke Lau at 705 Memorial Drive in Chicopee on April 20. Tickets are $35. For tickets, call (413) 593-5222 or visit hukelau.com
The Love Dogs come to Theodores' at 201 Worthington St. in downtown Springfield on Saturday night.