Nutcracker Rouge, a burlesque version of Tchaikovsky’s classic ballet | PHOTO: Deneka Peniston
By Asa Page
Théâtre XIV
Brooklyn, New York City
If attending back-to-back holiday feasts or spending a lot of time with family this winter has left your sexy side feeling utterly dormant, I’ve got the cure for you: head on over to Brooklyn to see the ‘Nutcracker Rouge’ burlesque show by Company XIV, now through mid-March 2025.
- Watch: Pianist Alexandra Dariescu discusses her digital version of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker
- Read: Review of ‘The Nutcracker and I’ |Alexandra Dariescu’s digital version of Tchaikovsky’s ballet
Get there early to hang up your coats, because this show gets hot. Wear your faux furs, feathers, and fishnets, your glitter and your glam makeup, then sit back on a black velvet seat and sip some chilled champagne with plum liqueur from a sugar-rimmed glass that will have you feeling naughty and nice at the same time. No need to rush: there are two intermissions during the show, so you’ll have plenty of opportunity to go back to the bar for more libations or snacks.
- Read: Five pieces of classical music inspired by fairytales
- Read: Music inspired by snow | 5 of the most imaginative works
This indulgent spin on a Christmas classic is entirely rat-free, but delightfully dirty nonetheless. Alongside some of Tchaikovsky’s original compositions, the show features additional music ranging from Vivaldi to Britney Spears and an eclectic mix of performance styles including ballet, aerials, trapeze, pole dancing, and an orgiastic pantomime montage you’ll have to see to believe. Whether your favourite sweet treat is gingerbread, a banana split, or a banana hammock there’s something in this land of frolicking sugar plum fairies for you. And the cast includes performers across a wide variety of body types, races, and genders, so nobody has to worry about feeling out of place.
- Watch: The Snow Queen narrated with classical music
- Watch: A Christmas Carol narrated with classical music
So if you’re feeling adventurous in the new year, or if you already know you enjoy glittery codpieces, belting divas, and world-class acrobatics in hazy, intimate theaters, then Company XIV’s ‘Nutcracker Rouge’ is a show you won’t want to miss. 