Las Vegas Weekly

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Once again, hundreds of tassel-twirling old friends will converge on the Las Vegas Valley for a weekend of artistry and talent-show spectacle, wrapped in the proverbial warmth of Christmas morning, Thanksgiving dinner and summer camp memories.

We’re referring, of course, to the 55th annual Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend, when some of the world’s best bump-and-grind artists compete and entertain, teach master classes, pose for photo shoots and even bowl in a tournament. It’s a celebration of neo-burlesque and classic strip tease, complete with aerial acts, ostrich feathers, hula-hoops and musical instruments.

Some will seek the title of Reigning Queen of Burlesque (aka Miss Exotic World 2012) at the Tournament of Tease (June 2), where other acts compete for Best Debut, Best Boylesque, Best Duo and Best Troupe. Others will deliver original, cutting-edge (and often prop-heavy) works at the Movers, Shakers and Innovators performance (May 31). Burlesque foremothers will revisit their art with the Titans of Tease Reunion (June 1), starring women who paved the way for today’s burlesque starting in the 1940s.

The weekend ends with Icons & All Stars, an evening featuring everyone’s favorite performers. So welcome back to the Orleans stage Miss Indigo Blue, The Stage Door Johnnies, Dirty Martini, Tigger!, Tiffany Carter, The Evil Hate Monkey and Foxy Tann & the Wham Bam Thank You Ma’ams. We’ve missed you, World Famous *BOB*, Kitten Natividad, Minnie Tonka and Darlinda Just Darlinda.