The 2011 Jim Thorpe Burlesque Festival - April 1st - 3rd, 2011

by Brooke Au Buchon
(Jim Thorpe, PA)

The 2011 Jim Thorpe Burlesque Festival is an entire weekend dedicated to the classic, tasteful, glamourous art of the strip tease. Two shows at the historic Mauch Chunk Opera House highlight performers from across the nation.

On Friday, April 1, 2011, Jacqueline Hyde headlines the "Fundraiser Gala." The "Fundraiser Gala" features Burlesque performers with a large variety of acts, and the proceeds from the ticket sales will benefit the renovation of the Mauch Chunk Opera House. The Mauch Chunk Opera House has hosted the legendary likes of Mae West, Al Jolson, the Dorsey Brothers, W.C. Fields, and Red Skelton, and the community of Jim Thorpe considers it to be the gem of the downtown district. Tickets are $30.00, 21+. Beer will be served.

On Saturday, April 2, 2011, Red Hot Annie of Chicago headlines the "Big Reveal." The "Big Reveal" is the Jim Thorpe Burlesque Festival's flagship show, and features Burlesque entertainers from far and wide who will compete for $1,000.00 in cash and the "Crystal Corset" Award. Tickets are $35.00, 21+. Beer will be served.

Saturday and Sunday, April 2 and 3, Jim Thorpe's Memorial Hall, (101 E. 10th St.,) will host the BURLESQUE BAZAAR, a hand-selected market of vendors who purvey lingerie, jewelry, corsets, handmade accessories, and vintage clothing. The BURLESQUE BAZAAR is free to the public, between the hours of 10AM and 5PM.

Also at Memorial Hall will be a professionally presented series of classes, workshops, and lectures in the art of Burlesque. Ladies can cultivate their inner diva with classes on Burlesque dance, costume construction, retro hair and make up, stage make up, and tips on starting a Burlesque career. Tickets for each class are $10.00 to $20.00, and are available by pre-registration.

While you're registering for classes, be sure to book a Pin Up Portrait session with the celebrated pin up photographer, Lorna Doone of Lornography. Lorna has photographed the most recognized faces in Burlesque and Pin Up today, and her $175.00 photo shoot will flawlessly immortalize you as the goddess you are. The session includes professional vintage hair and make up, a photo shoot, choice of backdrop, and one immaculately edited digital image to have printed at your discretion. **ALERT!** The best photo out of these bookings will be published in RETRO LOVELY MAGAZINE!

Tickets, information, and details are available at www.JimThorpeBurlesque.org