Dita Von Teese – Strip Strip Hooray!

“Queen of the New Burlesque” Dita Von Teese graced the Festival Theatre stage to rapturous applause in her show Strip Strip Hooray! It soon became apparent why this forty-something temptress has become an icon in this genre in recent years.

New York comedian and host extraordinaire Murray Hill was a vibrant and hilarious emcee for the evening. Facilitating as much sexual innuendo and audience participation as possible, he kept everyone engaged between acts. He was pure show business.

Never before have I seen so many feathers and sequins on one stage, except perhaps in the audience this night. Teese clearly has a fan base and they were vocal in their appreciation.

Exquisitely detailed gowns, corsetry and props added to the glamour. With skin of porcelain and meticulous make-up, Teese is all about the details, with stunning results.

As the curtain fell away, an enormous Swarovski martini glass was centre stage and this was only one of many elaborate props used. A sequined birdcage, a pink velvet mechanical bull and an Oriental opium den helped Teese create memorable moments filled with beauty and awe.

Allowing Teese time for costume changes, there were many other wonderful performers, who catered to all tastes and were experienced in the art of tease and tassel twirling. They sent the audience into frenzy, a vibe that was maintained throughout the evening. The flawless performances were titillating, but never crass.

Teese is old school glamour at its finest. A poster girl for burlesque, she is a modern day Bettie Page.

Strip Strip Hooray! is decadent entertainment delivered by consummate professionals and is pure perfection.

Kerry Cooper