“It’s is not just a show; it is a statement of inclusion, diversity, and representation in the performing arts”

Announcing the 5th Annual Winnipeg International Burlesque Festival, under the fresh direction of DD Brassiere, our new Festival Director. DD brings a commitment to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment, embracing performers of diverse backgrounds, body types, and identities. Her dedication to providing a platform for artistic expression continues to propel the festival to new heights. We’ve rented the Cherry Karpyshin Theatre at the Prairie Theatre Exchange for all four shows, and the rehearsal hall for ten workshops.

WIBF has two nights with double features, starting with the internationally acclaimed one-woman show, Josephine, “an intimate, charming and haunting cabaret with a twist”. In the 1920’s Josephine Baker shattered stereotypes of race, gender roles and sexuality as the first African-American international superstar. 7pm Friday, May 31 and Saturday, June 1. 

The nightly International Burlesque Showcases feature 20 touring burlesque stars from across North America, as well as some of Winnipeg’s finest local talents. Our  headliners are, internationally acclaimed Métis Indigenous Headmistress of Ottawa, Kitty Kin-Evil, winner of Queen of the Roses, Fatlesque performer, Arabella Boop and a rare opportunity to see the star of Josphine, Tymisha Harris performing as herself.

By bringing Tymisha Harris to the festival for two nights of Josephine, the play, we’re also able to add patron’s from the theatre community. Josephine has a long tradition of selling out its run at the Prairie Theatre Exchange, which will be introducing hundreds of theatre enthusiasts to the wonderful world of burlesque.

The Winnipeg International Burlesque Festival strives to support inclusion in this unique performing art. There is no limitation for artists to be a certain size, ability, culture, gender. Burlesque celebrates all bodies and empowers people to let go of their insecurities and see their body in a new light. For Women, trans and non-binary people, loving your body is an act of rebellion. Men can admire them, but she’s egomaniacal if she admires herself. 

There are ten workshops tailored to those curious about burlesque as well as those committed to it. All attendees and artists are invited to the after party in the lounge, for an opportunity to meet some of the artists and purchase their sparkly crafts at the merch tables.