Halifax-based burlesque artists Elle Lixir and Cyd Chartreuse come to the Halifax Fringe with The Burlesque Dating Game, a burlesque/theatre hybrid in which Fringe-goers become the live studio audience of a reality TV dating show.
…we hope the show will spark conversation and thought around current dating culture and leave audiences feeling validated that it is indeed a tough time out there in the dating pool.
We learn more in this Q&A with the co-writers.
The Burlesque Dating Game plays as part of the 2023 Halifax Fringe Festival at Neptune Theatre’s Scotiabank Stage on September 7 & 8. Visit the Halifax Fringe ticket outlet for tickets and information.
Content Warning: This show contains sexually suggestive scenes, some explicit language, and implied nudity.
This interview has been edited.
Tell us about The Burlesque Dating Game. What can audiences expect?
The Burlesque Dating Game is a theatre/burlesque hybrid. The script, written by Elle Lixir and Cyd Chartreuse, seamlessly integrates burlesque numbers into a scripted theatre production. The audience can expect an immersive experience in which they are the live studio audience of a reality TV dating show. The show is reminiscent of The Dating Game, with notes of Jerry Springer infused with burlesque.
What inspired The Burlesque Dating Game?
The concept for The Burlesque Dating Game was inspired by the retro TV show The Dating Game, reimagined within the colourful tapestry of contemporary dating, quirky characters, and reality TV. The fusion of these zany but not altogether unrelated concepts led to the creation of The Burlesque Dating Game. We wanted to take audiences on a journey that challenges our burlesque performers and promises an unforgettable evening filled with anticipation and excitement, a night you won’t want to miss.
Why this particular show now?
Elle Lixir had a great time helping bring a burlesque show to the Halifax Fringe Festival last year. This year, she was interested in further merging burlesque and theatre art forms by having characters exist outside their typical burlesque numbers, writing dialogue and interacting with each other like a musical. When Elle pitched the idea of The Burlesque Dating Game to Cyd Chartreuse, Cyd was immediately hooked. They joined forces to collaborate on a script and write the show together.
What do you hope audiences leave The Burlesque Dating Game talking about?
We hope audiences leave the show talking about how bodies and sexuality can be celebrated. Additionally, we hope the show will spark conversation and thought around current dating culture and leave audiences feeling validated that it is indeed a tough time out there in the dating pool.
Why should someone come to see The Burlesque Dating Game?
Our show is worth a night out because it will make you laugh with its cheeky commentary on current dating culture. The Burlesque Dating Game is sure to empower with its body and sex-positive burlesque acts and tickle your funny bone with its unexpected twists and turns.
The Burlesque Dating Game plays as part of the 2023 Halifax Fringe Festival at Neptune Theatre’s Scotiabank Stage on September 7 & 8. Visit the Halifax Fringe ticket outlet for tickets and information.
The Halifax Fringe Festival returns from August 31 through September 10, with more than 60 productions taking place at venues across the city.