Before the art of burlesque was ever linked to the modern striptease it served as a parody of traditional opera and theatre — with an important risqué twist. Though it has evolved over the years, most troupes maintain the form’s close ties to music and theatre while continuing to push the limits. Expect acts to be twined with everything from live music, comedians, magicians, and fire breathers. A wide range of burlesque styles are in circulation around San Antonio, from the classic to the straight-up grotesque. Here’s our breakdown of some of the city’s top troupes.
Deathrockettes
Search “Deathrockettes San Antonio” on Faecbook
These gals fame themselves as the ‘original grotesque burlesque’ troupe. For a taste of this new group’s style, catch a performance by Ratchet Von Nightmare at this weekend’s My Bloody Valentine at Revolution Room.
The Girls of S.A.S.S. (San Antonio’s Sexy Sweethearts)
Search “Girls of S.A.S.S. San Antonio” on Faecbook
Not a burlesque group in the traditional sense, S.A.S.S.’s style can best be described as cabaret rooted in burlesque. Expect everything from Broadway to Beyoncé.
Noir Vamp Entertainment
myspace.com/noirvamp
Professionally trained dancers in all genres, performers fuse classic styles with modern dance.
Oh Baby! Burlesque!
wix.com/ohbabyburlesque/ohbaby
Classic burlesque with period music inspired by silent movies, Bollywood, musicals, Bettie Page, and Tempest Storm, to name a few.
Stars and Garters
starsandgartersburlesque.com
This troupe shows the “classy, classic, and glam side of burlesque” with theatrical flair.
VSF (Vegas Stiletto Fitness) Girls
vsf-sa.com
Comprised of student dancers, the girls’ signature accessories include a pair of heels and a folding chair
Related story: Devil Bunnies: Petting the bloody underbelly of San Antonio's burgeoning burlesque scene
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Extra: For you ladies who want to give burlesque a whirl, check out the Burlesque 101 workshop offered by Stars and Garters or partake in Vegas Stiletto Fitness’ Ladies Night Out. Also: the Devil Bunnies’ Rose Muñoz teaches burlesque at Soft Sensuous Moves.
Just like the lace and leather? Jupiter Moon 3 (jupitermoon3.com) designs custom corsets and stylish undergarments and has been featured in publications such as Rebel Ink and Pin Curl Magazine. Batcave Designs is a one-stop shop for the ghoulishly cute, specializing in hair accessories such as coffin clips, bow sets, and mini top hats.
