Vermont Burlesque Festival

08/31/2026

We couldn’t be prouder of our friend and VTBF2025 headliner Jessabelle Thunder! ❤️⚡

From sharing stages with her in some of our earliest burlesque days to watching her continue to grow, shine, and make her mark — it’s been pretty incredible.

Now ESSENCE is celebrating Jessabelle and her journey. Give this wonderful feature a read and help us celebrate one of burlesque’s brightest stars! ✨

https://www.essence.com/lifestyle/unboxed-jessabelle-thunder/

Read the article here: https://www.essence.com/lifestyle/unboxed-jessabelle-thunder/

From a surprise sign-up to Miss Exotic World 2025, the burlesque star talks about finding self-love, community, and power in taking risks through the form of live entertainment.

08/26/2026

We're still seeking: Variety Acts • Comedians • Magic • Musicians & Bands • Burlesque Acts • More! Submit your act before the Application Window Closes on August 31st, 2026.

Details at: http://www.VTBurlesqueFest.com

08/26/2026

In this piece from Fashion Journal, international burlesque artist Zelia Rose talks about beauty as expression, play and transformation — and how hair, makeup, fragrance, fashion, aging and stage presentation all become part of creating a persona.

Burlesque has always had a fascinating relationship with glamour. And in the world of burlesque - glamour can be about creating, experimenting, transforming and becoming larger than life.

A fun read and a little peek behind the glamour.

👉 Read: https://fashionjournal.com.au/beauty/burlesque-glamour-zelia-rose/

As a dancer and burlesque performer, glamour naturally is a big part of Zelia's day-to-day. We take a look inside her beauty kit.

08/25/2026

The world lost an icon today. 💔

Dolly Parton was never a burlesque performer — but it’s hard not to recognize a little of the spirit of burlesque in the larger-than-life persona she shared with the world.

The rhinestones. The towering hair. The exaggerated femininity. The humor. The willingness to make herself the punchline while always remaining completely in control of the joke. Dolly understood glamour, theatricality, sexuality, camp and the power of creating a larger-than-life stage persona.
..And did you know she was on the cover of Pl***oy?!?!

Several years ago, Trav S.D. wrote an interesting piece exploring Dolly through the traditions of vaudeville and burlesque, drawing connections between her and entertainers who came before her. In remembering Dolly today, we thought it was worth sharing.

She wasn't burlesque. She was Dolly.

And generations of performers who believe in being bigger, brighter, bolder and unapologetically themselves are better for having had her in the world.

Rest in rhinestones, Dolly. ✨

Read the Article Here--> The Vaudeville (and Burlesque) of Dolly Parton:

https://travsd.wordpress.com/2020/01/19/the-vaudeville-of-dolly-parton/

08/25/2026

We just wanted to share this post from our friends at Pride Center of Vermont

Today we celebrate the life of Marsha P. Johnson, born on this day in 1945. A fearless advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, she played a pivotal role in the 1969 Stonewall Uprising and dedicated her life to fighting for justice, visibility, and care for the most marginalized members of our community. We honor her legacy by continuing the work of building a world where every LGBTQ+ person can live with dignity, safety, and pride.

Photo from the

08/24/2026

Ranker.com created a list of "The Best Burlesque Movies of All Time" and although we may disagree with their decision to include some of the movies on their list ... we still found this an interesting read.

https://www.ranker.com/list/best-burlesque-movies-list

Over 500 filmgoers have voted on the 40+ films on Best Burlesque Movies Of All Time. Current Top 3: Burlesque, Moulin Rouge!, Chicago

08/21/2026

137 acts have been submitted to and counting. Want your act to be considered? ...The application window stays open until Aug 31st, 2026. Free to Apply.

Learn more at www.VTBurlesqueFest.com

08/21/2026

137 acts have been submitted to and counting. Get your acts submitted by August 31st if you'd like it to be considered. Application Window Closes at the End of the Month.

08/17/2026

Looking to elevate your burlesque craft, connect with community, and learn directly from industry royalty this winter?

Join the Vermont Burlesque Festival for a weekend retreat featuring masterclasses with 2022 Burlesque Hall of Fame Queen Lou Lou la Duchesse de Rière, insightful industry roundtables, photo shoots, promotional workshops, a keynote presentation, dinner, and our main "Fire & Ice" Friday night showcase!

Whether you’re traveling in or joining us locally, we’ve designed 3 flexible pricing packages to fit your weekend:

1. The Full All-Inclusive Experience

2 nights of host hotel lodging

Friday night showcase reserved ticket

Full access to Saturday masterclasses, workshops, keynote & roundtables

Saturday lunch & intimate evening dinner reception

2. The Summit & Showcase (No Lodging or Transportation)

Perfect for local commuters and Vermont artists!

3. Summit Only Pass

Ideal for artists focusing strictly on specific technique, styling, and movement workshops

👉 Learn More and Reserve your spot today with a risk-free $25 deposit: www.VTBurlesqueFest.com