The 4 Best Venues for Burlesque Shows in Calgary Where Locals Feel Most Entertained and Empowered
Some time ago, one of my friends invited me to watch her perform in a show. She’s always been a dancer, so I was expecting a recital of some sort.
You can imagine my shock when the lights dimmed and the first performer started taking off articles of clothing. Before that, I only had a faint idea of what burlesque was, and had never seen it live.
Well, that night, everything changed. Nowadays, I’m pretty much a fan. I love all the artistry that goes into a burlesque performance — the choreography, the costumes, the sensuality, and the theatrics of it all.
Since then, I’ve seen a number of shows in the city, and I’m basically a regular at some of the places where they’re usually held. Below, I’ve listed the venues where you can watch the finest burlesque shows in Calgary.
1. The Attic Bar & Stage
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Address: 1413 9 Ave SE
Contact details: +1 403 475 4741
Operating Hours:
- Thursday, Sunday – 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Monday to Wednesday – Closed
The Attic Bar & Stage is one of the most versatile venues I’ve ever been to. Over the years, it’s been a comedy bar, a live music lounge, and a drag event stage. But every so often, they host some of the most jaw-dropping burlesque shows I’ve ever seen.
Every month, The Chandelier Club puts on a show that’s equal parts glamorous and hot. They usually have a unique theme for each show, but all of them always end up being captivating.
Their burlesque performers are absolutely magnetic; It’s impossible to take your eyes off them as they own the space. And the crowd is just as electric. They make every show feel like a huge celebration.
The place isn’t just a performance venue, though. It’s also one of the best plant-based Italian restaurants in the city. You can complete the experience by ordering one of their delicious stone-baked pizzas, paired with a handcrafted cocktail.
| Pro tip: If you plan on watching at The Attic Bar & Stage with a group, make sure to buy all of your tickets in one transaction. Otherwise, seating is first-come, first-served, and there’s no guarantee that you’ll be seated together. |
2. cSPACE Marda Loop
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Address: 1721 29 Ave SW
Contact details: +1 403 476 2025
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Sunday – Closed
cSPACE Marda Loop is best known as a dynamic art gallery with exhibitions from a variety of creative entrepreneurs. However, burlesque enthusiasts know that this hub also supports local artists in other ways.
In 2024, one of its many spaces was used for the first-ever Alberta Burlesque Rodeo. And you can bet that it won’t be the last of its kind.
This iconic event brought in world-class talent from all over Western Canada. Attendees were wowed by performances from well-known burlesque artists like Karla Marx, Miami Minx, Lola Frost, and Jezebel Sinclair, to name a few.
I thought it was especially great that the venue had both table seating and theatre-style seats. You can enjoy the performances whichever way is more comfortable for you. Plus, there’s bar service throughout the show, which makes everything more fun.
| Pro tip: cSPACE Marda Loop is an inclusive establishment in more ways than one. Apart from having gender neutral washrooms, they’ve got automatic doors, ramps, and wheelchair-accessible stalls. |
3. Betty Lou’s Library
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Address: Devenish Heritage Ltd, 908 17 Ave SW
Contact details: +1 403 454 4774
Operating Hours:
- Wednesday, Sunday – 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Thursday – 5:00 PM to 11:30 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 5:00 PM to 1:00 AM
- Monday to Tuesday – Closed
From the moment you enter Betty Lou’s Library, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite spot among burlesque performers. This award-winning speakeasy perfectly captures the American and Parisian vibes of the roaring 20s.
Firstly, there’s a ritual to enter. You’ll have to use an old-timey phone to talk to staff and see if there’s still room inside. If you’re lucky, they’ll let you step behind the bookcase. I always feel like I’m in a spy movie whenever I do this routine.
Inside, you’ll immediately be bathed in the warm glow of their red lights. All of this, paired with the sound of clinking glasses, sets the scene for all the sexiness that’s about to ensue.
For the next few hours, you’ll be dazzled by feather boas, glittering costumes, and garters coming on and off. It’ll truly feel like you’ve been transported to a glitzier and more exciting world.
| Pro tip: Keep in mind that Betty Lou’s Library is a pretty small venue. Although walk-ins are accommodated, it’s best to reserve a table ahead of time. This will also add to the experience since they’ll text you a secret password that you have to say at the door. |
4. Boudoir Rouge
– Media credit: boudoirrougecalgary
Address: 907 9 Ave SW
Contact details: +1 403 269 7544
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 7:30 PM to 3:00 AM
Ask any local and they’ll tell you that Boudoir Rouge is one of the best spots in the city if you’re looking for sensual entertainment. You can drop by any night, and it’ll likely be busy with tons of guests.
But for a burlesque fan, you’re sure to appreciate their themed cabaret nights the most. This is when their top-notch performers put on sparkly outfits and do high-energy numbers that always get the crowd hooting and hollering.
The fun doesn’t stop once their burlesque dancers are done, though. Their DJ always plays fun sets and keeps the party going as the drinks continue flowing. My friends and I always end up busting out our own burlesque moves whenever we go here.
| Pro tip: If your group reserves a table at Boudoir Rouge, make sure you get the most out of it by requesting a free limo ride. They’ll send over a driver to pick you guys up and bring you all to the establishment. |