the burlesque masquerade ball

"Laughter is the tonic, the relief, the surcease from pain" - Charlie Chaplin

The word Burlesque derives from the Italian burla - a joke, ridicule or mockery. It is in part a celebration of everything we love about femininity, and in part a rebellion against everything society tells us we must be. A place where we are in control and our femininity isn’t used against us. Burlesque teaches us that we shine best as our individual selves, and that the more we shine, the more we encourage others to do the same.

We are the Rhinestone Rebels … join us.

The Masquerade Ball Treasure Hunt


Do you want to play a game with us? Each clue below will help you explore this stunning venue and introduce you to some charismatic characters.

Each answer to the 7 clues below is one word - the number in brackets relates to the letter from each of these words that you will need to complete the riddle. Find the answers to all of the clues and select the relevant letter. These letters are an anagram - arrange them to answer the riddle below (e.g. if the clue answer is “mask” and the number is (3) then the letter you need to help solve the riddle is “S”).

Got the answer? Whisper it in Tempest Rose’s ear tonight if you can find her. The first 10 correct answers will be gifted a pair of nipple tassels.

THE RIDDLE: To live life as a Rhinestone Rebel you need this vital ingredient.

THE CLUES:

  1. Every House of Burlesque star knows that they are not show ready without this suitcase must have - will they share this showgirl secret with you? Ask and find out. (7)

  2. We have the showgirls of the past to thank for this ingenious invention, subject of a famous ode. Visit the mistress of our so scandalous underground hangout and all will be revealed. (5)

  3. A heavenly half, more than two faced, inviter of aunts… stuck? Maybe our fortune teller can help you… (2)

  4. The higher you are, the darker it can be, luckily our waxy friends are there to help you see. Don’t be blinded by the flame, it’s on our bottoms you have much to gain. (1)

  5. To those who wish to receive much shall be given. Or only a little… whatever is your pleasure of course. Our English Gentleman know’s what he likes, flatter him and maybe he’ll tell you (2)

  6. Born in the UK, in this city right here, the word that sums everything we hold dear. Satire never such a beautiful face, a tongue as sharp as a stiletto, and society’s expectations unlaced. (2)

  7. Dress to excess…Italians do it best. But from Rio to Notting Hill, the floating city’s fiesta is our night’s thrill. Stuck - without this you’re undressed, framed in gold before minstrels, is the answer to this test. (1)


Good luck!