Camilla Bay Burlesque packed Alchemy Tavern’s upstairs room on May 4 for “Return of the Tease,” a Star Wars-themed nerdlesque show that welcomed everyone from franchise fans to burlesque newcomers. Performers fused cosplay with classic tease for an evening of playful, empowering fun.
Empowerment Over the Dark Side
Foxy Monroe revived her Boba Fett routine, while Takillyah Sunrise drew laughs as a sharpshooting stormtrooper and Phoenix Rose reimagined Jyn Erso. Performers said burlesque lets women connect with and celebrate their own sensuality. Takillyah Sunrise noted roughly 90 percent of the audience is women and couples, calling it “an art form in every aspect.”
Foxy Monroe pointed out there is no perfect burlesque body, making the stage inclusive for audiences who see themselves reflected on it. Nerdlesque, the troupe said, is a friendly on-ramp for people who might never have tried traditional burlesque.
See Them This Weekend
The troupe returns to Alchemy Tavern on July 13 from 10 p.m. to midnight, right after MOB Music Festival wraps at 10 p.m. — an easy stroll for late-night performance art at a beloved independent business.