Vermont Burlesque 2025

2025 Vermont Burlesque Festival - Granite City Showcase

Now in its 12th year, the Vermont Burlesque Festival’s Granite City Showcase has become one of the most attended shows of the entire festival. This 4-hour extravaganza at the Barre Opera House features a thrilling blend of burlesque headliners, live music, comedy, and variety acts that you won’t want to miss! Enjoy adult beverage tastings and a limited cash bar throughout the evening, with specialty tastings offered by Hendrick’s Gin for those 21+.

This year’s headliners include two of the most celebrated figures in the world of burlesque:

• Jessabelle Thunder, ranked among the Top 10 Burlesque Performers in the World (2020), is known for her captivating blend of classic and neo-burlesque styles. With nearly a decade of experience, she has headlined shows across the globe, performed alongside legends like Dita Von Teese, and competed in prestigious festivals like the New Orleans Burlesque Festival. Her flirtatious and powerful performances are hailed for their emotional depth and artistry.  There’s a storm brewing and Jessabelle’s bringing the Thunder!

• Tito Bonito, the “Cuban Missile Crisis of Burlesque,” is an international, award-winning performer whose accolades include being named Burlesque Hall of Fame's "Most Comedic" in 2017 and making 21st Century Burlesque's Top 50 for five consecutive years (2019-2023). His signature comedic style and charm have made him a favorite in the burlesque community, and his resume spans performances, hosting gigs, and even television appearances on networks like NBC, Playboy, and Bravo’s Vanderpump Rules.  This ‘Cuban Missile Crisis’ is here to please, tease, and guaranteed to bring you to your knees!

Friday Night is FLANNEL NIGHT!
Barre is a flannel town, and we challenge you to wear your best flannel! Whether it’s a scarf, skirt, jacket, or even a bow tie, show up dressed in flannel for a chance to win prizes. Pose on the red (flannel) carpet for your chance to win!

The festival not only celebrates the art of burlesque and body positivity, but also supports several local charities, including Breast Cancer Research in Vermont, the Health & Wellness Program at the Pride Center of Vermont, and the WARMTH Heating Fuel Assistance Program.

This event is intended for mature audiences (ages 18+), with a high potential for adult themes and language.