What to Expect at a Burlesque, Cabaret & Circus Show

SO, YOU’VE BOOKED YOUR FIRST BURLESQUE & CABARET SHOW TICKET … NOW WHAT?

Stepping into the world of burlesque, cabaret, and circus for the first time is like opening a velvet curtain into another world. A mesmerising world of glitter, chaos, comedy, glamour, skill, theatricality, and glorious unpredictability.

If you've never been before, you might understandably be wondering:

What actually happens at a burlesque & cabaret show?

How much stripping is involved?

Do I need to dress up?

Am I going to be dragged onto the stage?

Is everyone going to know some mysterious cabaret etiquette that nobody has told me about?

Fear not, curious adventurer - BOSS LADY has you covered.

And this particular Boss Lady knows a thing or two about exactly what happens behind the velvet curtain; Lara Gothique is the Founder, Curator & Producer of The Velvet Burlesque™, a multi-award-winning choreographer, teacher, performer, and mentor, with over 35 years of professional experience in burlesque, cabaret, dance, and live entertainment. You’re in very experienced hands.

Here’s everything you can expect when the lights go down, the curtain rises, and the magic of a Velvet Burlesque show begins.

If you'd first like to understand what burlesque and cabaret actually are - and the differences between them - please read: 🔗 What Is Burlesque? What Is Cabaret? What Is the Difference?

A FEAST FOR THE EYES (AND EARS)!

Think glitter that catches the light like stardust, sequins that shimmer with every movement, rhinestones sparkling from corsets and gowns, feather fans unfurling like exotic wings, aerialists swinging high above the stage, fire that crackles with danger, nipple tassels twirling with mischief, and comedy sharp enough to make you cry with laughter. Add powerhouse live vocals that raise the roof, and circus skills so jaw-dropping you’ll wonder if gravity and health & safety have taken the night off - all of it woven into one intoxicating, unique evening of spectacle.

Burlesque isn’t just about striptease (although, yes, there’s artful tease and cheeky reveals aplenty). At its heart, burlesque is about storytelling - using glamour, humour, politics, satire, sensuality, and theatricality to tell tales that are bold, playful, and unapologetically unique. Every performer brings their own flair, whether it’s dazzling costume artistry, sly comic timing, or raw emotional presence.

Now add cabaret’s cheeky songs and razor-sharp comedy, mix in the charisma of music, theatre, and dance, and layer it with circus artistry that seems to defy the laws of physics. From aerial silks and hoops spiralling toward the ceiling to jugglers, acrobats, knife-throwers, sword-swallowers, and fire-breathers pushing the boundaries of danger and delight - you’re looking at a stage show that keeps you hooked, guessing, and cheering from the very first spotlight to the last encore.

VARIETY IS THE SPICE OF CABARET.

Unlike traditional theatre with one storyline running from beginning to end, a burlesque & cabaret show isn’t one long play with a single storyline - it’s a kaleidoscope of entertainment - a variety line-up designed to keep you on the very edge of your seat.

Glamour, danger, comedy, satire, music, striptease, circus, skill, beauty, ridiculousness, and sheer showmanship can all collide within one night.

Every act brings something completely different: one moment you’re doubled over with laughter at a smutty song, the next you’re holding your breath as an aerial performer spins, twirls, and drops right in front of your eyes. Then, just as your pulse steadies, but before you’ve even caught your breath, you’re swept into a sultry burlesque number dripping with drama and unforgettable style.

This ever-changing rhythm is the beating heart of cabaret. It’s unpredictable, eclectic, and gloriously chaotic - a heady mix of glamour, danger, satire, mayhem, music, skills, striptease, and raw power - all stitched together with velvet thread.

You are not supposed to know exactly what's coming next.

That's the point.

It’s a high-speed rollercoaster of spectacle and emotion, an intoxicating cocktail of entertainment where every sip tastes different, but every delicious drop leaves you wanting more!

It’s a living, breathing, lucky dip of entertainment where the only guarantee is that you’ll leave grinning, gobsmacked, or both!

Variety isn’t just the spice here - it’s the whole banquet!

AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION (BUT NOT THE SCARY KIND)!

Burlesque, cabaret, and circus aren’t about sitting quietly in the dark - they thrive on breaking the fourth wall and pulling you into the atmosphere.

The performers don’t just perform at you; they perform with you.

Expect cheeky banter, playful glances, and the occasional moment where a performer might single you out for a laugh, a wink, or a flirt. You might even find yourself the punchline of a joke, the target of a saucy serenade, or the recipient of a feather fan flourish.

But don’t panic - it’s never cruel or uncomfortable! Cabaret is about celebration, not humiliation.

The goal is always to make you feel like part of the fun, and to give you a memory you’ll be talking about long after the final curtain call.

Here’s the golden rule: the more you give, the more you get. Clap until your hands sting, cheer until your throat’s raw, whistle, stomp, and whoop like you really, really mean it. Every ounce of energy you throw towards the stage is reflected right back at you, only bigger and brighter.

Think of it as a glorious two-way love affair between stage and audience - a conversation carried out in applause, laughter, and delighted voices. Your reactions don’t just encourage the performers - they help shape the show itself.

WILL I BE PULLED ONTO THE STAGE?

Usually, no.

Different shows and performers use audience interaction in different ways, and occasionally a particular act may involve more direct participation.

But much of what people call “audience participation” simply means that the audience is allowed - and indeed positively encouraged - to react.

So react!

Clap.

Cheer.

Laugh.

Whoop.

Whistle if that's your thing.

Make some noise when somebody does something spectacular.

Live performers feed on that energy, and a responsive audience can really transform the atmosphere and energy of an entire show.

Think of it as a conversation between stage and audience, conducted through laughter, applause, reaction, and shared experience.

Naturally, if you sit directly at the front, you are rather more visible than somebody hiding in row twelve ...

You have been warned.

EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED!

Don’t be fooled into thinking it’s all sequins and satin, or that it’s anything like that glossy Hollywood film and musical, "Burlesque" (yes, the one with Christina Aguilera and Cher belting it out on stage) ... Cabaret is a mischievous creature, and with it comes the kind of surprises you couldn’t script if you tried. 

Authentic grassroots burlesque and cabaret are polished, sophisticated, decadent, political, sensual, ridiculous, dark, glamorous, rebellious, funny, emotional, subversive, outrageous, beautiful, bizarre - and sometimes, well, actually, generally, several of those things within the same five-minute act.

Different performers bring completely different disciplines, personalities, aesthetics, experiences, and ideas to the stage.

That means no two line-ups feel alike.

And no two Velvet Burlesque™ shows are ever quite the same.

And the best part? You’ll never quite know what combination of marvels is waiting for you on any given night!

The only way to truly understand it is to buy a ticket and experience an actual, real-life, authentic, grassroots burlesque and cabaret show for yourself.

Here’s the truth: if you came looking for predictable, you booked the wrong ticket! The Velvet Burlesque™ shows don’t play safe - they play spectacular!

A SAFE, INCLUSIVE & RESPECTFUL SPACE.

At its heart, burlesque, cabaret, and circus are about freedom.

Freedom to express, to play, to shine in ways some of the mainstream stages (and musicals!) don’t always allow.

The richness of our world comes from individuality.

You won’t just see one body type, one gender, or one way of being fabulous - you’ll see a dazzling spectrum of humans who bring their own truth, power, and sparkle to the spotlight. That’s not a side note; it’s the whole point. These shows are a celebration of individuality, where difference isn’t just accepted; it’s adored.

Newcomers to veterans, 20-somethings to trailblazers, legends, and drag royalty who’ve been dazzling for decades - every stage of adult life shines here.

Any culture, ethnicity, sexuality, trans or non-binary brilliance, neurodivergent minds, every background, every faith (or none), curves, muscular strength or slim silhouettes, petite or statuesque, scars, disabilities, and those with access needs - everything and everyone has a place on our stage, and everything and everyone belongs in our audience too.

Every human on stage and off deserves respect. Celebrate loudly, but remember: consent isn’t just sexy, it’s compulsory.

So come exactly as you are. Throw on sequins if it delights you, or show up in jeans if that feels right. In this space, you’re not judged by what you wear, who you love, or how you move - you’re welcomed for bringing your whole, true self to the party.

Burlesque, cabaret, and circus have always thrived on being rebellious, subversive, and proudly outside the box. When you step into The Velvet Burlesque, you’re stepping into a community - a tribe - that doesn’t just tolerate difference - it roars with joy for it.

Difference isn't something that needs to be hidden in good cabaret. It is part of what makes the stage so damn interesting.

RESPECT & CONSENT.

Every person on stage and off deserves respect.

Cheer.

Applaud.

Enjoy the sensuality.

Laugh at the jokes.

Get swept up in the atmosphere.

But please remember that a revealing costume, a striptease act, a flirtatious character, or a performer interacting from the stage never removes someone's right to personal boundaries.

Consent matters.

Always.

Come exactly as you are and allow everyone else the same freedom.

WHAT SHOULD I WEAR TO A BURLESQUE OR CABARET SHOW?

There is no universal burlesque dress code.

Some shows, balls, immersive events, or venues may have a particular dress theme or specific requirements, so always check the information for any production you are attending.

Otherwise, wear something that makes you feel comfortable and fabulous.

Love an excuse for sequins, vintage glamour, dramatic tailoring, alternative fashion, or full theatrical splendour? Go for it!

Prefer smart jeans and something a little more classically casual? Also absolutely fine.

That said, a night out should feel a little bit special. So even if you’re not feeling especially bold, to hell with being too conservative - throw on something just a little more exciting than you normally would. A flash of sparkle, a fabulous jacket, a dramatic lip, a pair of killer shoes, something vintage, something decadent - whatever makes the night feel like an occasion. You might be surprised how much that tiny bit of extra effort adds to the whole experience for you, and I’m pretty sure it’ll be worth it.

You’re attending the show - you’re not auditioning for it. What matters most is feeling comfortable in your own skin, because that’s a big part of being able to relax, enjoy yourself, and properly soak up the atmosphere.

DO BURLESQUE SHOWS INCLUDE STRIPTEASE OR NUDITY?

Often, yes - striptease is an important part of burlesque, but the amount, style, and presentation can vary enormously from one act to another.

It might be glamorous and sensual, cheeky and comedic, political, theatrical, satirical, or completely ridiculous. Some performers may strip to nipple tassels or nipple pasties, or similarly revealing costumes, while other acts within the same burlesque and cabaret show may involve no striptease whatsoever.

Remember, burlesque is much more than simply taking clothes off. Costume, character, storytelling, comedy, choreography, music, theatricality, and the art of the tease are all part of the performance.

That said, this is still burlesque. If striptease, partial nudity, or semi-naked bodies are likely to offend you, then a burlesque show probably isn’t the right night out for you - and it’s much better to know that before you book.

If you are attending any live show and have concerns about adult content, always check the individual event information before booking.

ARE BURLESQUE & CABARET SHOWS ADULTS-ONLY?

Most burlesque & cabaret shows are 18+.

Burlesque and cabaret productions commonly include striptease, sexual humour, strong language, adult themes, or other content intended for adult audiences.

For The Velvet Burlesque™ productions, appropriate licences and permissions are held by The Velvet Burlesque™ and/or the venue where required, reflecting the adult nature of the performance and ensuring that the event is presented within the relevant legal and venue requirements.

However, there is no single age restriction that applies to every production or venue, so always check the individual event information of any live show before booking.

CAN I TAKE PHOTOGRAPHS OR FILM THE SHOW?

Never assume that photography or filming is permitted.

Rules vary between productions, performers, and venues, and restrictions may exist for performer privacy, copyright, safety, or simply because phones can disrupt the experience for everyone around you.

Flash photography is a definite no. Sudden flashes can be distracting, intrusive, and potentially dangerous for performers, particularly during dance, aerial, circus, fire, or other highly skilled live acts.

Blink, and you’ll miss it! Live performance is special for that very reason - it is best experienced with your eyes, not through your phone screen.

The odd Story, quick Reel, or curtain-call photo can be a lovely way to share the atmosphere with friends or on social media, but please always check the individual show rules first.

If photography or filming is not permitted during performances, please always respect that request and keep your phone away until the appropriate moment.

All Velvet Burlesque™ shows are professionally filmed, and many individual performances are later shared online with the permission of the performers involved. So, if you want to relive some of the magic after the curtain comes down, you’ll find plenty of sensational videos on 🔗 The Velvet Burlesque™ YouTube channel.

SHOULD I TIP THE PERFORMERS?

Tipping performers is still far more common in the US burlesque and cabaret scene, where tips can form an important part of a performer’s income, but some UK shows are beginning to introduce tipping too.

Depending on the production, you may see tip jars, collection buckets, QR codes, or other ways to show a little extra appreciation to the performers or crew.

If you’re unsure, check with the producer beforehand to see whether tipping is welcomed.

And one very important rule: never throw coins or loose change onto the stage. Aside from being rather less glamorous than you might imagine, it creates a genuine slipping hazard for performers.

If tipping is encouraged and you’ve loved the show, a little extra appreciation can be a lovely way to say: that was bloody brilliant!

And if you'd like to bring any gifts for the crew or cast, please check with the producer beforehand as to what is appropriate, whether gifts can be accepted, and the best time and place to hand them over without disrupting backstage preparations or the running of the show.

WHAT ABOUT ACCESSIBILITY?

Accessibility arrangements vary greatly between venues and productions.

If you have mobility, sensory, communication, seating, or other access requirements, check the information for the individual event before booking.

The Velvet Burlesque™ provides relevant accessibility and practical information for individual shows and events wherever appropriate because different venues and productions can have very different arrangements.

If you need further information about a particular Velvet Burlesque™ event, please contact us before booking so that your individual requirements can be discussed.

🔗 Accessibility at The Velvet Burlesque™

HOW LONG DOES A BURLESQUE OR CABARET SHOW LAST?

There is no universal running time.

A cabaret evening might include several performers, a host or compère, multiple individual acts, and one or more intervals.

Doors-open times and performance times can also differ.

Always check the listing for your particular show rather than assuming that every cabaret night follows the same format.

YOU’LL WANT TO COME BACK!

There is a reason first-time audience members so often leave asking: “When’s the next one?”

Hand on heart - who can blame them!

Burlesque, cabaret, and circus aren’t just shows - they’re experiences that get under your skin in the best possible way. They are addictive!

The thrill isn’t just what you see on stage, it’s also the atmosphere in the room: the electric buzz of the audience, the shared, raucous laughter and song, the wild applause, and the excited feeling that you’ve just witnessed something utterly spectacular.

You have just witnessed something that existed only in that room, on that night, with those performers and that audience.

Live entertainment is beautifully temporary. That's part of its magic.

And because every Velvet Burlesque™ line-up, performer, act, theme, and production always brings something different, seeing one show does not mean you've seen them all.

Far from it.

READY TO EXPERIENCE IT FOR YOURSELF?

Whether it's your first burlesque and cabaret show or your fiftieth, nothing quite compares with being there when the lights go down and live performance takes over the room.

For more than three and a half decades, The Velvet Burlesque™ has brought audiences together with exceptional burlesque, cabaret, circus, drag, comedy, magic, dance, music, speciality, and variety performers.

Established in 1991, our productions have always celebrated individuality, originality, spectacular live entertainment, and the glorious unpredictability that makes cabaret what it is.

Want to experience it for yourself?

Check out: THE VELVET BURLESQUE™ -  SHOWS & EVENTS

Want to delve further into the world behind the curtain?

You may want to read: What Is Burlesque? What Is Cabaret? What Is the Difference?

We have lots more interesting reading via: Backstage - The Velvet Burlesque™ Blog

Don’t just read about it, either - come and experience the very best of UK burlesque and cabaret for yourself; there’s a reason The Velvet Burlesque™ has kept audiences coming back for over 35 years!

Boss Lady - Lara Gothique

Founder, Curator, Choreographer, Performer, Swamp-Witch, and Slightly Feral Producer of The Velvet Burlesque™

© Lara Gothique - The Velvet Burlesque™
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