Check out the burlesque history behind This is Burlexe; how our new London burlesque shows evolved from previous incarnations Burlexe and Boylexe.
Burlesque History of This is Burlexe
This Is Burlexe is a unique cabaret show in London and is a culmination and combination of two exciting immersive experiences. Burlexe and Boylexe were created by producer, writer and digital pioneer, Howard Wilmot.
Burlexe became known as the ‘Vagina Monologues of Burlesque’ with a mix of burlesque dancing, story and song. The play launched in 2011 to critical acclaim sharing the herstory of showgirls.
It subsequently spun-off Boylexe that peeked behind the curtain of boylesque. The male burlesque show featured drag, mime and striptease.
Both theatrical projects were captivating experiences that took place in infamous Soho nightspot, the Shadow Lounge. They featured a variety of performers from different disciplines.
Unique Performers
This Is Burlexe pulls together the two plays in an oh-so pop, modern way. The variety of disciplines create a very contemporary cabaret with the UK’s finest performers.
The first show took place on Thursday, 31st March in a then brand new venue, Cecil’s. The superb speakeasy was situated in the back-streets of London Bridge but has subsequently been renamed and refitted.
For its launch, we were thrilled to be able to work with R&B powerhouse Kele le Roc, who has hosted both Burlexe and Boylexe.
She performed alongside, long-term collaborators: rising drag goddess Meth and hipster boylesque performer Randolph Hott – not forgetting, pickup artist and voguer extraordinaire Bobby Dee’vah. The show also features newer collaborations with burlesque gold Peggy De Lune (above) and actress Emma Fisher.
Other shows in the run featured former Burlexe and Boylexe collaborators, Esquire De Lune and Amber Topaz.
Exceptional Production
All This Is Burlexe shows are directed by Boylexe collaborator Pi the Mime aka. Alexander Luttley.
The costumes were created especially for the show by Caterina Schmitt from KRAKEN Studio and Tilly O’Neill of Nearer The Moon, who created a core series of costumes including bras, knickers, bodysuits and gowns.
Watch our quick-fire burlesque history lesson as we answer: what is burlesque?
