Written By
Kristin Wojkowski
Director of Experiential Curation
Burlesque (produced by Christina Aguilera) at the Savoy is glitz, glamour and a lot of heart. The storyline takes some turns from the film, which wasn’t really unexpected. It still delivers all the sparkle, sass, and soul.
The cast is diverse and inclusive with POC, a trans storyline, LGBTQ mentions and high energy main character vibes from Jake DuPree who has performed with Dita Von Teese and at the Windmill in London (before the recent closure).
Bold Staging and High-Energy Vibes
There’s a fantastic mix of familiar songs from the film (yes, “Express” and “Show Me How You Burlesque” are in there!) blended with new numbers- some work, some don’t but that was true for the movie, as well. “Bound to You” was better placed in the live version instead of a usual skip for me. The contemporary musical references throughout are a treat (Chicago, Waitress, Bring it On to name a few) super fun and cleverly woven in.
The voices? Phenomenal. Jess Folley brings inspected powerhouse vocals and emotional depth to Ali, and Tess, played by Orfeh has a real presence once she gets started- especially with her hilarious, dramatic shoutouts to her performers’ wardrobe pop(“That’s vintage silk!”).
Todrick Hall as Shawn shines in every scene he’s in. Sometimes literally (and the award for best costumes goes to… ). The humor hits just right, balancing out the drama with cheeky flair. The choreography (also by Todrick Hall) is contagiously energetic —it adds up to a show that feels electric.
Final Verdict: It Works, It Shines
It Owns the Night
Sure, the plot takes a few unexpected turns, but the vibe never misses a beat.
Bottom line: A bold, glittering night out with incredible voices and enough musical sparkle to leave you thrilled.
We saw folks dancing OUT of the theatre and on the streets.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Kristin Wojkowski is the Hollywoodland News Director of Experiential Curation & Historical Swimwear. She is a writer, dancer and lifelong vintage enthusiast with a deep love for hidden histories and solo adventures. She believes cemeteries are sacred classrooms and travel is an act of courage. Kristin is a collector of antique swimwear and has vast knowledge of vintage pre-midcentury modern fashion, lifestyle and events. Located in the San Francisco Bay Area, she is well known for planning vintage inspired events, giving lectures on swimwear and looking fabulous.
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