Eh, so apparently Boylesque refers to men under 30, who take on the, usually, female art; Merlesque is for older gentlemen! I guess I now fall into the latter category. So what's it all about exactly and where can we see some dudes strutting around on stage?
The 3rd International Galway Burlesque Festival returns 18th-20th May, and promises to be a celebration of the diverse, creative, seductive world of cabaret and burlesque, featuring top performers from across the globe—converging on the Creative Heart of Ireland in a flurry of feathers and fabulousness!
The Rising Star of the West opens the festival, which will take place on the Friday 18th May in Electric Garden and Theatre (doors 8.30pm), and features some of the best and brightest up and coming burlesque talent from all over the world, competing for the title of Rising Star of the West. From classic showgirls to avant-garde performance art pieces and fierce, boundary pushing work, these performers embody the intense creativity and innovation that we love about burlesque. Hosted by the hilarious Soup du Jour (Belfast)
On Saturday, the Gala Show (19th May, in the Town Hall Theatre, doors 8.00pm) will see 15 unique acts, both Irish and international, take to the stage of the Town Hall Theatre showcasing classic, neo, boylesque, circus and drag. It will be an unsurpassed opportunity to see performances on a grand stage for a night of glamour and glitter! Hosted by international cabaret superstar Sadie Sinner the Songbird (London)
Several workshops are available for anyone looking to learn new skills or improve a technique under the guidance of our star performers; Isis Wings, Choreography, Floorwork, Stage Makeup, Vintage Hair. Check out galwayburlesquefestival.com for more information. On Sunday, wind down after a fabulous weekend of decadence with a laid back afternoon sipping cocktails and sketching beautiful models at our cabaret life drawing session in Electric Garden and Theatre. Hosted by Vixyn Von Trix, with models Luna TikTok (U.S.) and Festival Co Producer Shir Madness.
It's a Date!
- Friday 18th May - The Rising Star of the West, Electric, @8.30 pm Tickets €10/€13
- Saturday 19th May - Workshops, Town Hall Theatre, @12.30 - 5pm - Saturday 19th May - Gala Show, Town Hall Theatre, @8:30pm Tickets €18 - Sunday 20th May - Dr. Sketchy’s Ireland, Electric, @3pm Tickets €12/15
This Bearded Irishman is definitely considering trying out a little Merlesque...
