Watching a burlesque show in some bars can be terrifying: get too close to a flying tassel in a small lounge and you could lose an eye! But Royale, a dim, sultry lounge on Park Slope’s Fifth Avenue, is the perfect venue for one of Pinchbottom Burlesque’s risque dance revues. In fact, the bar built a new stage specifically for the event.
“It’s a gorgeous, sensuous space with red and tiger print decor,” said Johnny Porkpie, a Pinchbottom organizer and the self-proclaimed “Burlesque Mayor of NYC.”
“We had taken photos there a couple years ago, because we liked the space so much. It’s a place I like to drink; I like the atmosphere. And when they suggested having a burlesque show there, it seemed right for a sexy sort of show.”
So, on Thursday, March 20 — the first day of spring — Porkpie is assembling dancers Nasty Canasta, Anita Cookie and GiGi LaFemme for burlesque and go-go dancing.
“The difference,” Porkpie said, “is that burlesque is an act with a beginning, middle and end, while go-go is dancing to the music that’s in the bar.”
Perhaps if Porkpie’s gals are able to tease a crowd to the show, this troupe of Royale entertainers will return for more bawdy evenings.
“The Royale Royale” will be held at 11 pm on March 20 at The Royale (506 Fifth Ave. at 12th Street in Park Slope). Free. For information, call (718) 840-0089 or visit www.pinchbottom.com.
