Review by Markus Hamence – A Night Of Burlesque. Performance date: Thursday 18 June 2026. Adelaide Cabaret Festival. Space Theatre, Adelaide Festival Centre, Adelaide, South Australia.
There are shows that entertain us, and then there are shows that completely surrender to the joy of performance. A Night of Burlesque at the 2026 Adelaide Cabaret Festival firmly belongs in the latter category, delivering a sparkling celebration of glamour, artistry, humour and unapologetic self-expression.
Curated and hosted by the ever-charismatic Bettie Bombshell, the evening brought together an exceptional lineup of burlesque talent, each performer showcasing a distinct style while collectively creating a vibrant and cohesive cabaret experience. The lights dimmed, and we, the audience, were transported into a world of feathers, sequins, rhinestones and theatrical seduction, where confidence became an art form and personality took centre stage.
Karlee Tiana Misipeka delivered performances brimming with power and poise, commanding attention through both elegance and strength. Rhys Lightning brought a sexy masculine magnetic energy to the stage, blending charm, athleticism and cheeky humour into routines that had the audience cheering throughout. The classicism of Lyra Labelle embodied of OG burlesque glamour with a modern twist, captivating the room with precision, style and effortless stage presence. Karlee Misi, Rayne and Winchester Angel rounded out the lineup with performances that balanced theatricality and sensuality, proving that burlesque is as much about storytelling as it is spectacle.
What made the evening so engaging was the diversity of performance styles on display. Some acts embraced old-Hollywood sophistication, others leaned into playful comedy, while several pushed into contemporary performance art territory. Yet despite their differences, every routine shared a commitment to craft, timing and audience connection. The result was a production that felt dynamic, unpredictable and consistently entertaining.
“With feathers flying, rhinestones sparkling and personalities larger than life, A Night of Burlesque transformed the Adelaide Cabaret Festival into a dazzling celebration of confidence, artistry and pure theatrical joy.”
Markus Hamence
Musically and visually, the show captured the essence of classic cabaret while maintaining a contemporary edge. Costumes dazzled beneath expertly crafted lighting, and every reveal, pose and flourish was executed with confidence and precision. The audience became active participants in the experience, responding with laughter, applause and enthusiastic encouragement throughout the night.
Burlesque has always occupied a unique space within cabaret culture, celebrating individuality, empowerment and theatrical expression. A Night of Burlesque embraced those traditions wholeheartedly while showcasing how the artform continues to evolve for modern audiences. Beneath the glitter and glamour was a genuine celebration of self-confidence, creativity and performance excellence.
In a festival renowned for pushing artistic boundaries, A Night of Burlesque proved that the timeless art of tease remains as captivating as ever. Stylish, seductive and overflowing with charisma, this was an evening that celebrated the performers as much as the performance itself, leaving audiences thoroughly enchanted long after the final curtain call.
Wrapping it up: A Night of Burlesque is a dazzling reminder that confidence is captivating, individuality is irresistible, and great cabaret will always leave you wanting just one more encore.
