Do you know why many look forward to going to Vegas? For one, Vegas is home to some of the world’s best casinos. But, behind the glitzy lights and glamor that these casinos have, Vegas shines the best lights on the unique and quirky. And the Burlesque Hall of Fame (BHOF) is one of them. If you are planning to head to Vegas for one wild weekend, do yourself a favor and drop by the museum and open your eyes to a whole new world of art.
Preserving the Art of Burlesque
When you hear of the word “burlesque,” what comes to mind? Feathers, loud make-ups, and sequined tankinis? But do you know that there is more to them than just that? The Burlesque Hall of Fame aims to preserve the art of burlesque, which saw its popularity peak in the late 1800s. The museum is the only one in the world that offers guests a deeper understanding of the art. With its massive collection of costumes, props, and memorabilia from the past down to the modern practice of the art, guests can have a peek in the world of burlesque. The BHOF also offers classes for groups and individuals interested in participating in variety shows.
How It All Began
Initially named, Exotic World, the Burlesque Hall of Fame started through the personal collection of Jennie Lee. Lee was a striptease artist and founding member of The Exotic Dancer’s League of America. Inspired by the life and death of fellow entertainer, Dixie Evans, Lee began the Miss Exotic World Competition in California.
After 16 years, the competition garnered a huge following, and this prompted Lee to move the Burlesque Hall of Fame in Las Vegas to become a permanent tourist attraction. Now, it is part of the Las Vegas thriving art culture in Las Vegas’ Arts District.
What To Expect in the Burlesque Hall of Fame Museum
Once guests get to the museum, expect to get a better understanding of burlesque as it will take you to the rich history of burlesque from its roots from Broadway’s grand theaters. Each guest can see the evolution of the art as it shows the neo-burlesque movement. From there, visitors would have a grasp of how burlesque stars successfully made their marks on American history. As mentioned, interested guests can take classes and immerse themselves in the life of a burlesque queen.
We suggest going during The Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekender for those who want to dive deeper into this burlesque subculture. The event lasts for four days and includes the annual Miss Exotic World competition, Movers Shakers, and Innovators, The Titans of Tease Reunion, Icons and All-Stars, museum tours, pin-up safaris, and burlesque classes.
Know Before You Go
- There is no age restriction for guests, but minors should have a guardian.
- Admission to the museum costs $15 for tourists. Nevada residents pay $12. Seniors, students, and military personnel pay $10. Guests can pay via cash or credit card.
- There is no dress code. You can even buy your feather boas from Rainbow Feathers if you feel like dressing up for the museum visit.
- The museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m and Sundays from noon to 4 p.m.
You can visit their website: https://www.burlesquehall.com/ for more information about their upcoming shows and events. You may also want to check out Le Rêve for a spectacular show.
