The Best Burlesque Experiences in Berlin

Berlin and burlesque have a long history. Dating back to the Weimar era, the city’s burlesque and cabaret scenes evoke the combined riotous decadence and daring dissent of the 1920s. Intersecting sexuality, liberation and culture, here are the best burlesque experiences in Berlin.

Hidden on the bustling streets of Kreuzberg, is the timely speakeasy, Prinzipal. The cosy bar, with a distinctly nostalgic atmosphere, has some of the best cocktails in Berlin, and an intimate selection of weekly amazing burlesque shows. The bar’s secrete vibe, the ’20s-inspired interior and cosy space creates the perfect spot to soak in some of the city’s best burlesque performers.

Prinzipal Kreuzberg, Oranienstraße 178, 10999 Berlin, Germany

The Poetry Brothel is a unique and immersive event that takes poetry out of the classrooms and lecture halls and places it in the intimate interiors of bars and event spaces. Part poetry and part performance art, the platform can be experienced in cities around the world, including Berlin. The event is a unique take on burlesque and brings a new sub-culture to the art form.

Various location around Berlin

If you want to experience the art of burlesque first-hand, then the Burlesque Academy is the place for you. Founded by Marlene Von Steenvag, Germany’s Queen of Burlesque, the academy offers lectures and courses for anyone wanting to explore the multilayered, glamorous world of burlesque.

Berlin Burlesque Academy, Greifenhagener Str. 64, 10437 Berlin, Germany

A collaboration of Bravo Burlesque and Primitiv Bar, Sunday Soirée highlights amazing burlesque talent within Berlin, bringing the art form to the red-lit, smoky Friedrichshain bar. The ever-changing program often mixes comedy or musical performances with burlesque, bringing someone new to each event.

Primitiv Bar, Simon-Dach-Straße 28, 10245 Berlin, Germany

The Berlin Burlesque Festival is an annual event that showcases the best burlesque dancers, acrobats and show acts from all over the world. The packed program is filled with enchanting performances, parties and workshops.

Potsdamer Straße 96, 10785 Berlin, Germany

At changing locations around Berlin, Bohème Sauvage brings the flare and glamour of cabaret and burlesque to the city. The monthly ball for 800 revellers dressed in period costume is reminiscent of the golden era, and this stylish event let audiences immerse themselves in the experience.

Various locations around Berlin

Taking things up a notch are the various events at Kleine Nachtrevue Bar. With burlesque shows from 9pm on and late-night naked ballet or burlesque tango, this bar offers many types of burlesque.

Kleine Nachtrevue Bar, Kurfürstenstraße 116, 10787 Berlin, Germany