Burlesque-A-Pades
nytheatre.com review by Mel House
October 26, 2012
If you're looking for an evening of fun and sexy live entertainment, look no further then Angie Pontani and Gary Beeber's Friday night Burlesque-A-Pades. Like the title suggests, this show reaches back to the vaudeville era to present comedy, music, bawdy sketches, magic, sensual dances and titillating strip tease. But what surprised me the most (besides what Albert Cadabra can do with a balloon), was that I was moved by the celebration of life, sensuality and the unexpected beauty of real performers doing what they love.
Burlesque-A-Pades. is currently playing on Friday nights at the Soho Playhouse. This intimate theatre with red velvet seats, feels like the perfect home for this magical evening. I was joined by an eclectic crowd, aging from twenties to late sixties, that came from all walks of New York life--honeymooners, bikers, Upper-East-Siders, Steam punks, hipsters, alternative scenesters, and business folk. We roared, cheered, screamed and laughed together.
The lovely chorus ladies presented something of a can-can influence, while the charming Albert Cadabra moved the night along with comedy and magic. Helen Pontani seduced us with her sexy tap dance. And The Maine Attraction made us laugh--she's like Lucille Ball meets Burlesque with bananas. I found Gal Friday particularly delightful in her wild west strip tease. And you've never seen anyone rock a hula hoop like Pinkie Special! Tigger brought fabulous characters to the table. But my favorite part of the evening was when the beautifully tattooed Angie Pontani danced en point to La Vie En Rose wearing a diaphanous baby blue dress. Wow!
Under the Direction of Trav S.D., Burlesque-A-Pades is sure to entertain! Arrive early and you can get reasonably priced drinks downstairs at The Huron Club, which you are welcome to enjoy throughout the evening. And stay after, if you'd like to celebrate the night away with the lovely cast.
