We were so happy to sponsor and attend the Black Widow Burlesque show, Burlesque on Broadway, this past Saturday night. These gals are so much fun to watch and they make us feel just as special as the audience every time we set up our booth.

The event was held at the ND which is right in the heart of downtown, just east of the highway. A photographer who was there previously told me that the place is often used to shoot music videos, and that Willie Nelson has even shot videos at this venue. Small world.

It’s clear that the Black Widow Burlesque girls are taking notes at each show, seeing what works and what doesn’t. Crowds are funny things, and sometimes a little tweak can make the difference between a mediocre show and a perfect show. Ginger Snaps and Lilly LaFleur both told us that the new addition of floor seating and the very short 5 minute intermission were the newest program changes. We both agreed that it really made for a better show. The dressed up audience was able to have a seat, enjoy their drinks, and watch the burlesque performances without getting tired from standing all night. The brief intermission kept the crowd engaged for the entire performance.

Miss Fahrenheit was the master of ceremonies. She’s a former member of Black Widow Burlesque and was dressed up as Little Orphan Annie, which contrasted nicely with her sailor’s vocabulary and sass. All of the performers and choreography were very good, and as I watched them, I wondered if the audience has any idea how much time and practice they put into each number. These girls put in plenty of hours on the routines and burlesque costumes, and it shows.

A few of my faves were a beautiful fan dance by Lilly LaFleur; a campy, naughty kissing booth piece by one of the newest members of the troupe, Zaftigg von BonBon; and the group finale, “Steam Heat,” from the 1954 musical The Pajama Game. It's a perfect sexy number that had me smiling the entire song.

The lovely ladies at the Burlesque on Broadway show were a joy to watch, and Beth and I always feel like VIPs at the show. It’s a pleasure to work with them. If you would like to see a great Burlesque show in Austin, check out our up-to-date events calendar for show dates and times.

- Patrick