Hosting a burlesque theme party is all about glamour, playfulness, and a touch of old-world charm. If you’re looking to create an unforgettable event filled with stunning visuals, engaging entertainment, and an atmosphere that transports your guests to the world of Parisian cabaret, this guide is for you. Here, we’ll cover everything from decor to entertainment to help you host the ultimate burlesque theme party.
Setting the Scene: Atmosphere and Decor
The key to a successful burlesque theme party lies in creating a captivating atmosphere that instantly transports guests to another era. Here’s how to set the stage:
Entrance and Arrival Experience
First impressions matter, and the entrance sets the tone for your event. Welcome guests with an outdoor performance by Fire Artists at the venue’s entrance. Their daring acts add an immediate sense of excitement and anticipation. As they walk in, Stilt Walkers dressed in burlesque showgirl costumes can greet guests, making them feel like they’ve just stepped into a glamorous 1920s cabaret.
Inside Decor Tips
Once inside, continue the theme with rich, deep colours like reds, blacks, and golds. Consider adding:
Velvet Curtains and Drapes: Hang these around doorways and along the walls to create an intimate and luxurious feel.
Vintage Mirrors and Candle Holders: Place ornate mirrors and candle holders on tables to capture the reflection of flickering lights and add to the atmosphere.
Classic Burlesque Posters: Frame vintage posters of famous burlesque stars and hang them around the venue to add historical flair.
Lighting: Soft, warm lighting is essential. Use dimmed chandeliers, fairy lights, and vintage lamps to create a sultry glow that sets the mood. Avoid bright overhead lighting; instead, focus on spotlights to highlight key areas like the stage, bar, or main dining area.
Entertainment: Engaging and Immersive Acts
Entertainment is the heartbeat of a burlesque theme party, and you’ll want a mix of performers that keeps guests entertained throughout the night. Here’s a breakdown of the best acts to include:
Meet and Greet Performers
- Caricaturists: Have artists mingle with the crowd, drawing fun portraits of guests. This provides a light-hearted memento that guests can take home.
- Psychics and Tarot Readers: Set up a corner where guests can explore their spiritual curiosity. This is a unique touch that adds mystery and intrigue to the evening.
- Living Statues: Position Burlesque Living Statues around the venue. Dressed in dazzling costumes, these performers add a quirky and unexpected element to the night.
Roving Entertainment During Dinner
Keep the energy alive during dinner with roving entertainers. Close-Up Magicians can amaze guests with tricks right at their tables, while Caricaturists continue to entertain. This keeps the momentum going, even during quieter parts of the evening.
Designing the Stage: The Cabaret Show
The centrepiece of any burlesque theme party is the cabaret show. Design the stage to be the visual highlight of the night, drawing all eyes to the performers.
Stage Setup
- Star Cloth Backdrops: Use shimmering, sequined backdrops to create a starry effect that enhances the performance space.
- Large Red Heart Entrance: Make a grand entrance for your performers with a large red heart curtain. This creates a stunning focal point and is perfect for dramatic entrances.
Cabaret Show Performances
- Trapeze & Aerialist Acts: Suspended trapeze artists or Aerialists performing above the crowd add a breathtaking element to the show. This act brings elegance and danger together beautifully.
- Dancer in a Champagne Glass: This classic act involves a dancer elegantly performing inside a giant champagne glass. It’s glamorous, playful, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Choreographed Group Performances
Group acts are essential to a cabaret show. Dancers in stunning costumes performing routines that mix elegance with playfulness are sure to captivate your audience. Mix solo performances with group numbers to keep the show dynamic.
Highlight Acts
- Fan Dancing: A signature act of burlesque, Fan Dancing uses large feather fans to create an elegant, teasing dance. The focus is on the art of suggestion, making it a tasteful addition to your show.
- Can-Can: The high kicks and frilly skirts of the Can-Can are a must-have for a burlesque theme. It’s lively, cheeky, and perfect for getting the crowd excited.
Music: Creating the Soundtrack of the Night
Music is the thread that ties your entire event together. Curate a playlist or hire a band that can deliver a mix of sultry jazz, playful tunes, and upbeat cabaret songs. Live music is a great option if your budget allows, adding authenticity and vibrancy to the event.
DJ and Dance Floor
Once the main show wraps up, keep the energy going with a dance floor. A DJ playing a mix of vintage-inspired tunes and modern beats will keep the crowd moving. Encourage guests to join the performers on the dance floor for a truly interactive experience.
Sound and Acoustics
Ensure your sound system is set up correctly with clear, balanced acoustics. This is particularly important if you have live performers or a band. A poor sound setup can detract from the overall experience.
Drinks and Dining: Adding Burlesque Flair to Food and Beverage
Food and drinks are an integral part of your burlesque theme party. They offer an opportunity to extend the theme into every aspect of the evening.
Themed Cocktails
Create a selection of signature cocktails that fit the theme. Think names like “The Moulin Rouge,” “Champagne Showgirl,” or “The Tease.” Use ingredients like sparkling wine, berries, and herbs to keep them light, refreshing, and in line with the vintage vibe.
Champagne Tower
A champagne tower is a perfect centrepiece for a burlesque event. It adds a touch of class and creates a great photo opportunity. Consider having a performer pour the champagne in a theatrical way to kick off the party.
Dinner Options
For dining, opt for elegant and visually stunning dishes. Incorporate French-inspired cuisine to align with the burlesque’s Parisian roots. Offer a mix of hors d’oeuvres, a sit-down meal, or even a buffet depending on the formality of your event.
Enhancing the Experience: Small Details That Make a Big Impact
To truly elevate your burlesque theme party, pay attention to the small details. These final touches can make a big difference:
Guest Attire
Encourage guests to dress in theme. Suggest vintage-inspired outfits, flapper dresses, feather boas, and fedoras. This not only adds to the overall look of the event but also engages your guests in the spirit of the night.
Party Favours
Offer guests small themed mementos to take home. Think mini top hats, feather fans, or personalised caricatures from the evening’s artist.
Photo Opportunities
Set up a photo booth with vintage props. This gives guests a fun way to capture the evening and provides you with a great social media opportunity.
Final Thoughts
Hosting a burlesque theme party is about creating an experience that is both glamorous and interactive. By focusing on detailed decor, engaging entertainment, and lively music, you’ll set the stage for a night that’s unforgettable. Remember, every aspect should work together to transport your guests to the world of vintage cabaret and make them feel like they’re part of the show.
Use these tips to plan and host the ultimate burlesque theme party, and your event is sure to be the talk of the town.