The art of the Teese _{by Madelaine Empson}

A name known all around the world, a queen dripping in diamonds, a bewitching performer in a class of her own… Who else could we be talking about but Dita Von Teese?

Having made history in the artform of burlesque, Von Teese is bejewelled with unrivalled artistry and flair as a performer, creative director, choreographer, and producer. She has sold out some of the world’s grandest venues and continues to attract attendees ranging from Harry Styles and Jean Paul Gaultier to Prince Albert II of Monaco and the great Golden Age star Leslie Caron. Her spectacular stage shows, including her current residency at The Venetian in Las Vegas, feature and platform the crème de la crème of neo-burlesque performers of all sizes and gender diversities who hail from every corner of the globe and sparkle with the spirit of joie de vivre so dear to Von Teese. Her lavish and richly imaginative tour Glamonatrix remains the biggest touring burlesque show of all time. Now, she raises the bar yet again with Nocturnelle.

Inspired by the magicians of the 19^th century, Von Teese says Nocturnelle is her “most glambitious show yet”.

“It’s where sophisticated striptease meets the spellbinding art of illusion. Learning from master magicians and diving into the secrets of vintage magic, I set out to create something uniquely enchanting… it’s the art of the Teese, plus a little trickery, and a whole lot of glitz.”

Deemed “unquestionably the modern queen of burlesque” by Dua Lipa and “an absolute legend, unbelievable” by Taylor Swift, whose music video for Bejeweled sees the pair perform in a giant martini glass apiece, Von Teese is unmissable live. Wellingtonians will have two opportunities to witness the collision of sensuality and magic at The Opera House on the 28^th and 29^th of August.