Burlesque vs Cabaret

The terms burlesque and cabaret are often used interchangeably but they describe distinct performance traditions. Burlesque is a style of striptease performance rooted in theatrical parody and showmanship, with elaborate costumes, tease rather than full nudity, and a strong emphasis on character and comedy. Cabaret is a broader variety entertainment format combining music, comedy, dance and performance in an intimate venue setting, typically with table seating and food or drink service.

Adult cabaret is a distinct category covering venues where the entertainment includes more explicit performance, typically associated with gentlemen's clubs and venues like The Box Soho in London. The Courtesan in Brixton sits between burlesque and adult cabaret, hosting burlesque and cabaret programming in a restaurant and bar setting.

Major UK Burlesque Companies and Productions

House of Burlesque is one of the UK's leading burlesque production companies, run by Miss Tempest Rose and producing shows and classes across the country. It operates regular Saturday Speakeasy shows and tours nationally.

The Velvet Burlesque is a Sheffield-based burlesque school and production company with over three decades of history, offering classes, performances and corporate bookings.

Cirque du Vulgar is a touring adult circus and variety show performing at venues across the UK, combining circus, cabaret and adult entertainment in a live format.

London Cabaret Venues

Proud Cabaret operates two London venues in the City and at Embankment, combining dining with vintage-styled burlesque and cabaret entertainment.

Volupte in central London is a cabaret and burlesque supper club hosting dinner shows and bottomless brunches with live entertainment.

The Box Soho is a late-night adult cabaret and variety theatre in Soho known for a provocative programme and exclusive atmosphere.

The Scotland Burlesque Festival

The Scotland Burlesque Festival runs annually alongside the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in August, offering the UK's leading showcase for burlesque and alternative cabaret talent from across the country and internationally.

Finding Shows

Browse burlesque and cabaret venues and events in the Venuva directory and filter by Burlesque or Cabaret.