Harkening back to the enigmatic and scandalous days of Storyville, the Contemporary Arts Center held their annual “Bourbon and Burlesque” fundraiser in late June. The CAC, a beautifully converted K&B factory, offered high ceilings and ample space, a perfect venue for the scantily clad performances that took place on stage and in the air at their most talked about event of the year.
The event featured delicious bourbon-inspired cuisine and cocktails by Dickie Brennan’s Bourbon House, including muffalettas with housemade olive salad, boudin balls with remoulade sauce and a “Topless” oyster bar. The event was produced in partnership with Gwendolyn Entertainment, which created the original décor and centerpieces.
The much anticipated burlesque acts featured Fleur de Tease, Reverend Spooky & Her Billion Dollar Baby Dolls, burlesque legend Wild Cherry, Queerlesque and the Storyville Starlettes. Aerial acts by the Mystic Ponies and Angela Eve took place on the first floor in the spacious CAC Atrium. Throughout the evening, music was provided by Jayna Morgan & The Creole Syncopators and Linnzi Zaorski.
Republic National Distribution Company featured bourbons such as Benchmark, Buffalo Trace, Old Charter, Russell’s Reserve, Templeton Rye, Wild Turkey and Woodford Reserve.
Raffle items included packages built for swinging bachelors, girls on the town and art-centric families featuring top local restaurants, hotels, spas, boutique bars, and museums. Seven Men’s Magazine provided and hosted the Burlesque Photo Booth with photographer Zack Smith. House of Lounge debuted their new looks in a fashion show.
With over 750 attendees, the event was a major success and will benefit the CAC’s year-round artistic programming.
Event at a Glance
What: “Bourbon and Burlesque,” benefiting Contemporary Arts Center
When: Saturday, June 22
Where: Contemporary Arts Center
