Nocturna Cabaret

The pervasive Western imagination continually restricts the art world, with the oft-misunderstood medium of burlesque as no exception. Luckily, newly formed troupe Nocturna Cabaret performs with a purpose – to honor “the powerful influence of showgirls from the Global South.” Citing Mexican vedette trailblazers like Rossy Mendoza, Raqs sharqi icon Samia Gamal, and Black burlesque legend Josephine Baker as influences, the showgirls strike a compelling balance of sensuality and cabaret scholarship. The opulent lineup includes Carina Cruz, Mayari Sirena, Carolina Bela, Layali, and Nyx, while vinyl savant Lucía Beyond soundtracks the soirée. – Genevieve Wood