Burlesque shows are a glittering blend of art, entertainment, and community. There’s true magic up on that stage, and that’s what keeps audiences coming back.
But wait! Did you know that the audience is a part of the show, too?
No, we’re not going to make you strip with us (…except for the occasional show with a fun intermission game), but audience members do play a pretty important part at any burlesque show. An audience’s energy, reactions, and respect help create the magical atmosphere that makes burlesque so special.
Ready to attend a show? This guide will help you understand how to be the best audience member possible!
Understand the Spirit of Burlesque
Before we get into it, we’ve got to get one thing correct: burlesque is more than just striptease. It’s a celebration of art, individuality, sensuality, humor, queerness, and of freedom of expression. Every performer has their own style. Some acts are glamorous and sultry, others are comedic, or political, and some defy categorization altogether. You’ll find performers dripping in rhinestones with big boas or feather fans, but you’ll also find performers dressed as Gollum.
As an audience member, come ready to embrace variety. We’re ready to make you laugh, gasp, think, feel, and drop your jaw in awe!
Keep Your hands to Yourself
This is one of the golden rules: never touch a performer (or their costumes, props, or tip money) unless explicitly invited. Even if someone comes into the crowd, dances near your table, or leans into your lap, the boundary still exists unless they signal otherwise. Burlesque is about consensual exchange. The performer chooses what they reveal and how they interact.
Consent also goes both ways! If you’re at a show and you don’t want a performer to touch you, you can also signal to them not to touch you. Simply put your arms across your chest in an “X” or simply shake your head and say “no, thank you.” Performers want everyone to have a good time, and that also means respecting audience members’ boundaries, as well.
Respect is sexy! Consent is sexy! Respect and consent are MANDATORY!
React! Burlesque is Interactive
The traditional theatre experience requires you to sit quietly, but burlesque shows thrive on interaction. Performers want to hear you!
Cheer and clap! Your enthusiasm fuels the performance. When a performer peels a glove, swirls a skirt, or twirls tassels, don’t be quiet. Cheer, clap, and whistle to let them know you enjoy the show! If the emcee sets the tone by asking questions or hyping up the crowd, join in! A burlesque audience should be loud with a bit if rowdy energy, as long as it’s the supportive kind.
While you’re cheering and clapping, just make sure it’s respectful enthusiasm. Be loud, but don’t heckle. You can yell a supportive “Yes!” or “Hell yeah!” all show long. However, making lewd and rude comments or booing is never cool. You might find yourself being escorted out of the venue.
Tip Generously
Many burlesque shows are rooted in the tradition of tipping, similar to drag shows or sideshow acts. Performers put an enormous amount of time, money, and effort into creating their acts (those costumes don’t make themselves, and the choreography doesn’t make itself either!). Tipping is one way to directly support their artistry and let them know how much you enjoyed their performance.
Bring small bills if you can. Slip them into a tip bucket, hand them respectfully, or place them in a designated spot. If performers come into the audience to collect, offer with enthusiasm but never force it on them. For some shows, audiences can even toss tips on stage or make it rain! Just make sure it’s all done in a respectful (the magic word again!) manner. Never tuck money into a costume or body part unless the performer has signaled that it’s okay.
No cash? No problem. Many shows now utilize QR codes for easy digital tipping, too. At Flamingo Revue shows, you’ll find these placed around the venue — usually at the bar, on tables, and near the stage.
Just remember, not all shows share the same tipping policies. When in doubt, follow the lead of the emcee or the rest of the crowd. The emcee will likely let you know what’s acceptable when the show starts, or give reminders throughout the show.
For those shows that don’t want tips thrown on stage or collected in a bucket, you can still show appreciation by clapping loudly, sharing about the show and performers online, or buying merch.
Dress the Part (Optional but Fun!)
One of the joys of burlesque is that it’s a space where audience members can also express themselves. Some people show up in glamorous vintage-inspired outfits, glittery cocktail dresses, or dapper suits. Others come casual. Both are fine! If you want to add to the sparkle, go for it! Feathers, sequins, red lipstick, and bowties are always welcome.
If you’re attending a themed event — think Y2K, Halloween, or a goth show — dressing on theme is always encouraged and welcome. We love it when the audience is enthusiastic about the theme!
Dressing up shows performers you value the event as something special. But the most important thing is to feel comfortable and ready to enjoy yourself.
Don’t Be That Audience Member
A few behaviors can quickly sour the atmosphere for everyone:
- No Heckling: This isn’t stand-up comedy. Negative comments or overly-sexual remarks are disrespectful. Shouting lewd, crude, and rude comments won’t be tolerated, and you will be asked to leave.
- Don’t Talk Over Acts: Chatting loudly with friends while someone is performing is distracting and rude.
- Don’t Get Too Drunk: Celebrating is great! But if you’re falling over, shouting nonsense, or disrupting the show, you’re doing it wrong. This is a one-way ticket to getting escorted out of the venue.
Support Beyond the Show
Being the best audience member doesn’t stop once the curtain closes. The fun (and support) can keep going long after the final bow.
One of the easiest ways to do that is by spreading the word. Share your experience on social media: post about the show, let people know what a great time you had, and, if you can, tag the performers and the venue. Just make sure to respect any photo rules so that the magic onstage stays intact. A quick post or story might be the reason someone new decides to check out a show next time!
Another great way to show your love is by picking up merch. Lots of performers sell things like stickers, pasties, prints, or other goodies, as a way to supplement their income and share a little piece of their personality with the audience. Even a small purchase can mean a lot — plus, it’s a fun way to remember the night and carry a piece of it home with you.
Perhaps most importantly, come back! Burlesque is built on community, and seeing familiar faces in the audience makes all the difference. Keep showing up, bring a friend or two, and before you know it, you’ll be part of the fabric that keeps the scene thriving!
