If you're in the downtown area and have time for an art and coffee break, the Burlesque Hall of Fame is a great stop. Located inside Emergency Arts (to the left of The Beat coffeehouse), this museum/gift shop celebrates the world of vintage and modern burlesque.
The space itself is small and compact, but the Burlesque Hall of Fame hopes to expand its size in the future so guests can see the full collection. In the meantime, you'll get an inside look at the popular art form. The Burlesque Hall of Fame pays tribute to all elements of burlesque: comedy, theater, dance, music and, of course, costumes. From its controversial debut in the 1950s to its modern-day revival, you'll have a greater appreciation for the art. Read a timeline of notable events and get an up-close look at costumes through the years. There's even a "Peek a View" view master kiosk, where you can look at photos of the early days.
Jennie Lee, a well-known burlesque dancer, envisioned a place that preserved and celebrated this form of entertainment. Although she passed away before the museum opened, her friend Dixie Evans helped keep the memories alive. In 2006, the Burlesque Hall of Fame relocated from California to Las Vegas. The museum hopes to move to a larger area once it accumulates more funding.
Want to take a piece of burlesque home? Apparel, playing cards, postcards, magnets and coffee mugs are available for sale.
(Photo courtesy of the Burlesque Hall of Fame)
-- Staff Report
