Glamour, Grace, and Garters at Houston’s Burlesque Shows
Picture a world where feathers swirl, sequins catch the gleam of the stage lights, and the audience holds its breath in anticipation. Houston’s burlesque stage is set, and the performers whisk you away into a world where fantasy meets the spotlight.
In this guide, we embark on a journey through Houston’s most tantalizing burlesque experiences. From the intimate cabarets to the grand stages, each venue boasts its unique flavor, promising a night that transcends the ordinary.
Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or a newcomer to the world of burlesque, Houston has a glittering show waiting for you.So, get ready for an evening filled with allure, laughter, and a dash of the unexpected. Let the show begin!
50 Shades of Gold
Image Source: 50 Shades of Gold Official Website
Address: Avant Garden, 411 Westheimer Road Houston, TX 77006 United States
Phone Number: +1 832 287 5577
Ticket Prices: $15
50 Shades of Gold organized by the Golden Cabaret Houston is a regular burlesque extravaganza hosted inside the Avant Garden Houston every Monday. As the iconic crimson-hued velvet curtains slowly unveil the stage, international sensations appear.
This weekly soiree, inspired by the glitz of the 20s, offers a curated selection of live performances by a diverse ensemble of burlesque artists. From the sultry Poppy Tart to the charismatic Nikki Knockout, each performer brings a distinct flavor to the stage.
Pro Tip: Arrive early to catch Bryan Kelly, known for his decade-long magical performances across Asia as he opens the show every time. His unique blend of comedy and magic sets the tone for an evening that begins with laughs and pure entertainment. |
Carousel Club
Image Source: Carousel Club Burlesque Official Website
Address: House of Blues 1204 Caroline St, Houston, TX 77002, United States
Phone Number: +1 832 667 7781
Ticket Prices: Starts at $25
You can enjoy a night going on a journey back in time to the glamorous era of the original Carousel Club, a historic Burlesque venue that once graced downtown Dallas. Today, the Carousel Club in Houston pays homage to its iconic predecessor.
What sets this club apart is its historical significance; once owned by Jack Ruby, it played a role in shaping Texas’ nightlife history.
The club hosts a burlesque show every night that features extravagant props, stunning performers, and a loud ambiance that pays tribute to the golden age of Burlesque. Not to mention that some performers include Playboy models.
Pro Tip: Be prepared to whip your phones out for a photo of larger than life martini glasses as they take center stage.This is the only part in the show where performers will encourage you to take a picture and it’s definitely great to memorialize it on film. |
Dem Damn Dames
Image Source: Dem Damn Dames Official Website
Address: Numbers Nightclub 300 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77006, United States
Phone Number: +1 713 521 1121
Ticket Prices:
- $15 for advanced booking
- $20 for walk ins
- $30 for VIP tickets
The performers of Dem Damn Dames bring a unique flavor to Houston’s burlesque scene.
The troupe hosts a monthly tribute to beloved movie characters, with a different movie as the inspiration every time. With talents like Dahlia Derringer and Shelbelle Shamrock, the Dames ensure a diverse lineup that promises to titillate all the senses.
They host the Cabaret Hideaway, a neo-burlesque routine at the Numbers Nightclub for a delightful mix of mid-air acrobatics and sexy dance numbers. A special highlight is the return of Miss V Haven as the host, setting the stage for an evening of laughter and fun.
Pro Tip: Take a photo with all 3 Dames, Tifa Tittlywinks, Emma D’Lemma, and Lady Lush on the same night. If you share the photos online with their hashtag, you can get the chance to earn a free ticket to the next show. |
Divine Darlings Burlesque Troupe
Image Source: Divine Darlings Burlesque Troupe Official Website
Address: 8th Wonder Distillery 2201 Dallas St, Houston, TX 77003, United States
Phone Number: +1 713-581-2337
Ticket Prices:
- $25 for general admission and $30 for high table seats
- $100 for VIP couch
The Divine Darlings Burlesque Troupe entertains you with a captivating Sunday Funday event at 8th Wonder Distillery in East Downtown Houston.
This troupe of skilled and seasoned performers always put on a fun, friendly, and enthralling burlesque show called the Burly Soiree on Sunday afternoons. Headliner Dahlia Derringer takes center stage every night accompanied by 3 other talented girls.
The show’s unique blend of glamorous performances set against the backdrop of the industrial and rustic 8th Wonder Distillery makes for a visually eye-catching experience. They also offer burlesque classes in case you’re interested!
Pro Tip: If you’re going to the event with friends, we recommend going for the couches. They are positioned directly in front of the stage with nothing and no one blocking your view. Plus, each couch can sit 3 to 4 people which just ends at $25 to $33 per person! |
Free Feminine Friday
Image Source: Burlesque Show Social Beer Garden HTX Official Website
Address: Social Beer Garden HTX 3101 San Jacinto St, Houston, TX 77004, United States
Phone Number: +1 713 636 9357
Ticket Prices: Free
The Free Feminine Friday, hosted at the vibrant Social Beer Garden HTX is a weekly burlesque show, featuring household names like Gia Vaughna, Ramona Rose, and Nikki Knockout who promise intricate burlesque and cabaret performances
You are treated to a diverse range of acts, carefully curated to offer a unique blend of dance, singing, and even gymnastics or acrobatics.
As a bonus, not all performers are female, adding an element of surprise to each show that follows a different theme every month. Each night of fun begins at 11 pm and ends well into the early morning of the next day.
Pro Tip: The management is very strict with burlesque show etiquette. So, remember to refrain from touching performers without permission and knowing when to take pictures (They’ll tell you when you can). You’re encouraged to cheer loudly and tip generously. |
The Neon Rouge
Image Source: The Neon Rouge Official Website
Address: Isis Theater 1008 Prairie Street, Houston, TX 77002, United States
Phone Number: +1 936 648 4149
Ticket Prices:
- $45 for mezzanine seats
- $55 for floor level seats
- $65 for tables at the front of the stage
If a 3 hours of burlesque, aerial acrobatics, and live musical performances boosted by a full cast of all star performers is your idea of fun, then you should buy tickets to one of The Neon Rouge shows, the city’s longest-running cabaret and dinner show.
As the Neon Rouge Dance Company takes the stage, you’ll be treated to the talents of burlesque dancer Vixen Magnifique, aerialist Taylar Fatale, and Natasha Sweet.
The Tuesday shows at the Isis Theater are headlined by industry big name, Reina La Rouge. Special guests like the Burlesque Queen of Texas, Minxie Mimieux, and the LatinX drag queen Queen Angelina add a unique flair to the November showcases.
Pro Tip: Make sure you come dressed in jazzed up cocktail attire to abide by the strict dress code at the Isis Theater which was the old home of the iconic Prohibition and Moonlight Dolls. You can arrive early to explore the historic location. |
Pink Moon Cabaret and Jazz
Image Source: Burlesque Show Social Beer Garden HTX Official Website
Address: Social Beer Garden HTX 3101 San Jacinto St, Houston, TX 77004, United States
Phone Number: +1 713 636 9357
Ticket Prices: Free
Every second and third Saturday at 8 pm, you get to indulge in a unique fusion of live jazz music, opulent lifestyle inspired vibes, and an array of burlesque performances during the Pink Moon Cabaret and Jazz.
This hour and a half show exudes a similar blend of sophistication and entertainment that’s reminiscent of the Prohibition era. Not to mention that it’s absolutely free too.
The live jazz band sets the mood as some of the most talented women in the industry take the stage. They do have VIP Tables available for $35 if you want to ensure spots for you and your friends.
Pro Tip: If you want to look and feel like you belong, try to embrace the Jazz Age vibe by putting on your best cocktail attire. You’ll thank us later when you get pulled on stage by some of the performers looking your best. |
Red Velvet Burlesque Cabaret Show
Image Source: Red Velvet Burlesque Cabaret Show Official Website
Address: 815 Congress St, Houston, TX 77002, United States
Phone Number: +1 844 283 5838
Hours: Thursday to Sunday from 9 am to 11 pm
Ticket Prices:
- $30 for single general admission
- $55 for entry with preferred seating
You get an all access pass into the heart of Houston’s burlesque scene with the Red Velvet Burlesque and Cabaret Show. With a promise of carefully crafted and exotic performances, they deliver just that in the shows they host 4 times a week in Houston.
They make use of choreography with modern elements, classic and timeless burlesque dance routines, and a rotating cast of local and international talent.
The variety in each show ensures a fresh experience every time, combining the best in burlesque and cabaret. The engaging burlesque dancers interact with the audience, for a lively and entertaining atmosphere.
Pro Tip: Make sure to book tickets 2 to 3 days in advance on their website. The shows get sold out almost every time. They offer VIP packages that get you the closest seats to the stage, early entry, and a bottle of champagne for around $100 per person. For an additional $20, you can get a souvenir photo with the entire cast! |
Red Lace Burlesque & Variety Show
Image Source: Red Lace Burlesque & Variety Show Official Website
Address: 207 Travis St Houston, TX 77002, United States
Phone Number: +1 844 283 5838
Ticket Prices:
- $30 for general admission
- $55 for a VIP ticket with guaranteed seating
The performers behind the Red Lace Burlesque & Variety Show put on a weekly extravaganza that showcases one of our favorite nights that feature a blend of burlesque, variety acts, and cabaret performances.
With a commitment to providing new and exciting shows, Red Lace Burlesque stands as one of the premier nationwide productions. From classic burlesque performances to more daring circus acts, this variety show captivates audiences with a diversity.
We suggest you come mentally prepared for the not so slim chance that the performers come close because they have been known to make their way into the audiences for some fun and flirty interactions.
Pro Tip: Every week brings a new twist, so no two shows are alike and leaving you eagerly anticipating the next captivating performance. Look out for some announcements when they mix drag and comedy shows with burlesque performances. |
Short & Sweet Speakeasy
Image Source: Short & Sweet Speakeasy Official Website
Address: Avant Garden 411 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77006, United States
Phone Number: +1 832 287 5577
Ticket Prices:
- $30 (9 pm show) and $25 (11 pm show ) for priority seating and one drink per person
- $60 for a first row seat and a glass of champagne for both shows
Every Friday, the Short and Sweet Speakeasy is held at the Avant Garden with a show at 9 pm and another at 11 pm. Both of these are spearheaded by the charismatic Cara Cherie and star an amazing group of dancers dressed in intricate costumes.
With intriguing performances and banter by Abby Cadabra and performances by mainstays, Abby Cadabra, Emma Vauxdevil, Dahlia Derringer, and Valentina J’adore, you can expect a talent packed night. They also feature a weekly special surprise guest!
Pro Tip: Beyond the traditional performance, they also invite you to learn the art of the tease and seduction from a seasoned local performer. Cara Cherie’s masterclass is great to try if you’re looking for a new and exciting hobby. |