Have yourself… _{by Madelaine Empson}

On the 7^th of December, New Zealand’s longest-running burlesque-meets-cabaret variety show will deck The Fringe Bar with boughs of holly and sequins strung on feather boas in A Very Merry Caburlesque – the only non-themed holiday show of the season.

But isn’t that basically an oxymoron?

“Caburlesque is known for its themed show in which performers must adhere to a specific thing”, producer Adrienne Lindsay explains, citing the animal-speckled Zoolesque as an example. “A non-themed holiday show means that it’s a Christmas show but the performers can do absolutely anything they want.”

So, with local and national artists like Ms.Behavin & Waterlily, Midnight Mistress, Johnny Pash, Pip E-Lysaah & The Red Queens, Billie Jean, Aurora Storm [pictured], and
Velma Cherry performing burlesque, pole, belly dance, and more in any theme they want, what might their acts look like?

While Lindsay doesn’t want to give too much away, I’m treated to a tiny teaser:

“We do have some Christmas-themed acts but also a construction worker may be making an appearance along with a horse.”

With glittering goddess Constance Craving in the MC Hammer seat, the 11^th A Very Merry Caburlesque will be a merry and bright seasonal delight. 

“Caburlesque has been a driving force in the burlesque scene in Wellington for quite some time”, Lindsay says, adding that reaching their 11^th iteration is such an exciting time for the team. “We like to celebrate the end of each year with a bang and this year is no different!”

Saddle up for a Christmas party like no other!