The stage as a storybook _{by Madelaine Empson}

When it comes to starring in Caburlesque, Wellington’s longest-running variety night that blends burlesque with cabaret to delectable effect, one of Pip E-Lysaah’s fondest early memories is “performing as the Spider Queen Shelob in a Middle-earth-themed show”.

“I was draped in villainy while my students moved as fallen elves – dramatic, eerie, and deliciously theatrical. It perfectly captured what Caburlesque does best: turning a stage into a storybook and performers into living myth.”

A living myth itself, Caburlesque celebrates its 75^th show at The Fringe Bar on the 5^th of April.  

“75 shows in and I’m still shimmying,” E-Lysaah beams, “which feels equal parts rebellious and satisfying. It’s a reminder of how much I’ve evolved: from pure belly dancer to full-scale performance artist and burlesque storyteller. With every show, the work gets sharper, the choices bolder, and the confidence quieter but far more dangerous.”

Pip E-Lysaah and The Red Queens [pictured] will celebrate the milestone onstage in Caburlesque 75^th Show amongst a dazzling lineup of artists who have been there from the start and others who have joined along the way. With Sadie Von Scrumptious in the MC seat, look out for drag and dance, comedy and crooning from Midnight Mistress, Felix Goodfellow, Wilhelmina Weeds, Miss $$ Billz, Blue Virtue, Constance Craving, and Ellie Kat.

“When a show reaches 75 performances, it means it’s doing something right – bringing together amazing performers, great audiences, and a lot of passion behind the scenes,” Midnight Mistress says. “I’m just thrilled to be a small part of celebrating it.”