Deville’s Pad buzzed with excited burlesque fans on Thursday night for the opening of the first Perth International Burlesque Festival. This night, and the festival as a whole, is a testament to how far burlesque has come in Perth in the past few years. Revellers packed the atmospheric Deville’s, which was the perfect setting for a burlesque battle, for a night filled with feathers, sequins, and of course, pasties.

The event was hosted by MC Feisty, who was witty and entertaining. The battle contestants included Cecile Mimieux, Sapphire Demure, Lola Cherry Cola, Roxie Sparkles, Ruby Slippers, and TuLuLa Lollipop.

The most memorable among the contestants were Kitty Litteur, who tempted a goldfish (in male form) with her cat persona, and the eventual winner, Agatha Frisky. Frisky’s costume was incredibly intricate, and she displayed the appropriate amount of kitsch for a burlesque performer.

The evening also played host to some out of town acts, both of which were incredible. New Zealand’s Miss La Vida performed an amusing and true-to-life tribute to the effects of tequila, which included an appearance from a worm. However, the show-stealer was NSW-based Tasia. Her performance, which involved her swinging around a light on the end of a cord, entranced the audience and left a lasting impression.

This night, as with all burlesque, was a positive and empowering celebration of the female form in all shapes and sizes. The location, talent, and participation from the crowd all combined to make a highly memorable and enjoyable evening.

By Leslee Hall

Photography By Matthew Picken View Album