The Burlesque-A-Pades are coming to Richmond, on Saturday July 12th, when the World Famous Pont
The Burlesque-A-Pades are coming to Richmond, on Saturday July 12th, when the World Famous Pontani Sisters will be bringing their act center stage at Gallery 5 in downtown Richmond.
Created in 2006, Burlesque-A-Pades is one of the first touring burlesque review shows to perform across the nation, featuring acts from all over the country. The show has received high praise for its glamorous costuming, performances and polished acts.
“I was inspired to create a big stage show. I loved big vintage burlesque reviews and we incorporated a good amount of variety and different acts,” said Angie Pontani “And I just really wanted to create something that I loved, and thats a cool show that has something for everyone.”
Pontani, creator of the show and member of the world famous Pontani Sisters, has always been fascinated by the art and history of burlesque. “I loved the glamour and beauty of that golden era of hollywood. And I just fell in love with the art form. and the more I learned about it, what a huge part american theatricality history burlesque is, I really became a bit obsessed with it,” said Pontani.
Pontani has headlined major festivals and events from Hong Kong to Helsinki. She has also worked with performers including Lady Gaga and Sting. Pontani is also a “Miss Exotic World” competition winner, the highest title one can win in burlesque.
The show at Gallery 5 will be a classic burlesque variety show according to Pontani, including chorus lines with dancing women, jazz music and 60 style go-go routines.
Acts will include Helen Pontani, who will be performing a 1920s flapper inspired tap dance, and Minnie Tonka. Tonka is a member of the group the SCHLEP SISTERS and has received numerous awards for her performances. Including three golden pastie awards.
The headlining act, Lucille Ball, will perform a strip tease that combines gorgeous costuming, strip teases and acrobatics. Pontani will also hit the stage, performing an act where she steps onto stage in a Swarovski crystal encrusted baseball costume.
According to Pontani, classic burlesque performances are fun shows that provide entertainment for everyone. “Its so much more than a strip tease. Its really the full sensory experience of all of this amazing style and entertainment its about having fun,” said Pontani.
The show starts at 8 p.m. on Saturday with tickets already on sale. Tickets can be purchased in advance for 12$ and at the door for 15$.
