The House of Burlesque took over New Wimbledon Theatre for one night only, with an immersive evening filled with thrilling dances, risqué outfits, and nipple tassels galore.
Burlesque, which involves comedic and daring scenes, is a live performance art that can both entertain and empower audiences worldwide.
Since creating House of Burlesque, Tempest Rose has confronted society’s outdated perceptions of sensuality, sexuality, and gender while championing self-expression and body positivity.
Tempest said: “We need some escapism in this day and age, and burlesque is a fantasy world full of glamour where you can be unapologetically yourself.”
I stepped into Tempest’s fantasy world without a clue what to expect after seeing TimeOut claim House of Burlesque would blow my mind.
Saturday night was the second time House of Burlesque has welcomed guests to Wimbledon, following the success of the first ball in 2022 at the Duke of York’s Theatre, which was the first event of its kind to grace London’s West End.
The Masquerade Ball was one of many on-stage sessions held at New Wimbledon Theatre throughout September.
In between multiple electric burlesque performances at different locations throughout the theatre, guests were able to mingle, drink and dance to the music of resident DJ Darren Hart.
Tempest’s artistic vision to deconstruct the traditional stage through immersive performances came to life in the second half of the night, where the audience joined burlesque stars on stage to enjoy a one-of-a-kind cabaret-style show.
Tempest said: “We’ve inverted the traditional theatre narrative, a lot of tonight’s immersive elements centre around that.”
Before heading inside I spotted audience member Max, who sparkled on the red carpet in his head-to-toe sequin outfit.
Though he admitted none of his friends were interested in attending the masquerade ball, Max said he didn’t let that stop him from celebrating female empowerment through burlesque.
He said: “I’m looking forward to enjoying the artform, and the burlesque outfits too.
“I was brought up really conservative, and I think coming to this show is a way to rebel against that”
The evening proudly challenged traditional standards of femininity by spotlighting sexual liberation, which was epitomised by dozens of phenomenal outfits.
Hannah Arteaga, a costume designer who makes many of the House of Burlesque costumes herself, expressed how much she enjoys collaborating with Tempest Rose during the creative process.
Arteaga said: “When I hand a costume over to Tempest to try on and I see her face light up, it’s all the happiness I ever need.
“When I say blood, sweat and tears went into making a costume, I mean it. I’m very emotionally connected to everything I’ve made.”
Immersive performer Calum Robshaw hailed Tempest Rose a creative genius, while he sported a Marie Antionette style glittering corset and pannier, complete with a foot-tall white wig.
I couldn’t agree with Robshaw more when it comes to Tempest’s creativity and originality.
While it wasn’t the masquerade ball I expected (due to the lack of waltzing), it certainly was the mind-blowing experience I was promised.
After an evening of boisterous fun, I left feeling like I was part of a far wider movement which defied outdated attitudes towards women’s bodies and promiscuity.
Audience members Leah and Pip shared these feelings of self-acceptance and liberation.
Leah, a longtime House of Burlesque fan, said: “House of Burlesque made me feel better about myself.
“No matter what shape you are, what size you are, all that matters is that you feel sexy.”
Pip was invited to join Leah having never been to a burlesque show before.
Though she admitted she didn’t have any idea what to expect from the evening, Pip later concluded she would love to try burlesque and felt inspired to embrace her sensuality.
A House of Burlesque spokesperson said: “Tempest’s House of Burlesque Academy runs courses and workshops for total beginners all the way through to professional development masterclasses and private tuition.
“Alongside these she also hosts a weekly drop in burlesque style dance class that captures the spirit of the House of Burlesque ethos at the world famous Pineapple Dance studios in Covent Garden.
“People come to learn for confidence, to connect with their own sensuality, learn to take up space, and also to train for a career in Burlesque.
“Watching women blossom into the best version of themselves is the best part of teaching for her.
“In 2024 Tempest launched her Burlesque Essentials Online Burlesque Course for those who wanted to learn at home or were unable to travel to London.”
For more information about House of Burlesque’s classes, visit: https://www.houseofburlesque.co.uk/shows-home
