The Burlesque Spectacle: A Big Gay Musical Parody with Sass!
Burlesque is an art form rooted in satire, exaggeration, and raw self-expression. In Puerto Vallarta, a dynamic new show—Burlesque: The Big Gay Parody Musical—Bitch!—is taking this genre to new heights with a hilarious yet poignant narrative that blends comedy, music, and social commentary.
JT Horenstein and Tamale Ringwald are at the helm of this production, a creative duo whose vision was to craft an experience that entertains and challenges societal norms. They sought to build a bold, ridiculous show filled with characters that reflect different aspects of the human experience—all set against the backdrop of a burlesque club on the brink of collapse.
The Characters and Their Motivations
Each character in Burlesque has a unique and compelling motivation that drives the story forward:
- Cher, played by Evita Loca, is a legend in the burlesque world, desperate to keep her club alive while clinging to the past. She’s a symbol of legacy and resilience.
- Ali, brought to life by Ada Vox, is the newcomer searching for belonging, family, and a place to call home.
- Nikki is the ruthless creation of Delta Miles, the manipulative force of the show, embodying the hunger for power—but her personal struggles hold her back.
- Sean, played by Devin Richard, is the heart of the club, someone who has sacrificed his dreams to ensure its survival.
- Marcus, also played by Devin Richard, is the vengeful villain, unable to move past a heartbreak that fuels his drive to destroy what he cannot have.
- Eddie, portrayed by Nacho Granados, is an eager dreamer waiting for his moment to shine.
The show thrives on the interplay of these characters, and the ultimate message is clear: dreams, power, and artistic integrity are achieved through collaboration, not individual ambition.
A Bold Celebration of Self-Expression
But Burlesque is not just about entertainment; it is a form of resistance. The show embraces the power of parody to critique and challenge societal norms, using humor as a weapon against oppression. JT describes burlesque as an art form that allows artists to explore personas and take creative risks without judgment. Tamale adds that the show’s humor is intentional and subversive, engaging audiences while delivering sharp social commentary.
So audience participation is key! subsequently this production thrives on the crowd’s energy making each performance unique. Evita Loca emphasizes that the show is “very silly” but also “deeply connected to Puerto Vallarta’s local scene, tackling issues like rapid urban development while celebrating the LGBTQ+ community.”
Why This Show Matters Now
Although drag and trans performers are currently facing some of the most significant attacks in modern history, with laws aimed at silencing and erasing their existence. Burlesque stands as an act of defiance. JT states, “Now is the exact time when these wonderful and talented artists need a voice. We will be louder, stronger, and funnier than ever.”
Tamale echoes this sentiment, highlighting that great art has always emerged from resistance. “The role of the artist is to challenge perceptions, provoke thought, and push boundaries.” Shows like this don’t just entertain—they reaffirm the presence and importance of queer artistry.
A Production That’s Going Places
While Burlesque currently thrives in Puerto Vallarta, the team hopes to take it on the road, bringing their message of joy, defiance, and inclusivity to audiences across the U.S. Whether you catch it on tour or experience it in Vallarta, one thing is for certain: Burlesque is a spectacle that will leave you laughing, thinking, and ready to stand in solidarity with a community that refuses to be silenced.
In a town full of shows and all sorts of performances on and off stage, this show cracks the mold for what regular theatergoers didn’t know we were missing. I’d rank this at the top of many must-see shows in town by other iconic and talented artist, and the good news is the show has added dates up to April 1st! Tuesdays have never been more fun, so book your tickets before you miss this spectacle of drag excellence. Book your tickets at Coco’s Caberet immediately.
