David Comstock
Google
"Show a little more, Show a little less, Add a little smoke..... Welcome to Burlesque" (Cher, Burlesque)
Please note this place will be CLOSING JULY 20, 2025! So get here now!
Having seen Dita Von Teese at Voltaire earlier in the week, and being a fan of the fictionalized Gypsy Rose Lee and a fan of Mae West, burlesque was on my mind during my Las Vegas trip. Luckily the Burlesque Hall of Fame came across my timeline and the day of the week worked out for me.
I booked a ticket ahead of my visit, which provided me a guided tour of this small museum. For my timeslot I was the only guest on the tour which provided for great conversation with the very informative guide. There is so much history, talent, beauty and art woven into the fabric of Burlesque and much of that history is very relevant to today's political climate. Burlesque performers were and are empowered, providing commentary on society not just providing entertainment.
Although small the amount of information packs a punch, you walk through a timeline of burlesque starting in the 1900s, but as the tour guide speaks you find out origins of the art started much earlier in a sense (Think ancient Greece). You'll end your tour in the modern era of neo-burlesgue and see a familiar martini glass.
In addition to the primary exhibit there is a secondary, rotating exhibition on display. During my visit it was Brown Skin Showgirls - Leon Claxton's Harlem in Havanah Revue.
The entire museum is filled with pictures of performers, pasties, jewelry, garments, gowns and accessories and knowledge and empowerment! I personally, during this current administration found hope and insight in this community that never stopped, never dulled their shine even when the world was against them.
Towards the back of the museum you'll find the Bawdy Shop Studio. This is a space for learning, education, rehearsal, and practice. You'll have to check out their website to see what classes are being offered. Upon entry you'll walk into the gift shop with a variety of items available for sale to celebrate your experience.
Sadly the current climate is taking its toll on this institution and they are planning to close July 20, 2025. This doesn't mean everything is being sold off, but will go back into the collection for storage and hopefully being able to open in a new location. There are opportunities to continue to support the museum by making a donation, purchasing from their gift shop or becoming a member of the museum.