Las Vegas just got a whole lot more galactic, and a little less clothed! The internationally acclaimed sensation, The Empire Strips Back, has made its triumphant Las Vegas debut at the Rio Hotel & Casino, opening in spectacular fashion on Star Wars Day, May the Fourth Be With You, 2025. Producer David J Foster and his team have brought this wildly entertaining and cheeky production to Sin City, promising a unique adult Star Wars show experience unlike any other. For fans seeking Star Wars burlesque in Las Vegas and a night of unforgettable, rebellious fun, the force is undeniably strong with this Sin City residency!
From Down Under to the Desert: A New Hope for the Entertainment Industry
Producer David J Foster shed light on the show’s origins, stating, “The Empire Strips Back was launched at the legendary Vanguard in Sydney, Australia. The Vanguard was a tiny venue that produced a series of incredible burlesque shows like Batman Follies of 1929, Biba’s Wizard of Oz Burlesque, and 1982 Blockbuster Burlesque. Empire Strips Back was launched there and generated such buzz, it was soon touring to large theatres around Australia and then around the world.” Now, this global phenomenon has landed in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip, perfectly timed for the annual Star Wars celebration. The Rio Hotel & Casino has transformed into an outpost where the iconic saga gets a decidedly adult and hilarious burlesque makeover, promising Las Vegas Star Wars entertainment with a provocative twist.
The Art of Parody: Feel the Sass, Unleash the Force
Reimagining beloved Star Wars characters through the art of burlesque requires a delicate balance of humor and seduction. Foster explained the creative process, “You mention humor and, yes, that’s critical. The genius of the show’s director, Russall S Beattie, is to add just the right amount of humor. In a scene that’s sexy and provocative, a great gag changes the mood and tone like a light switch. The back and forth between sexy and funny plays with expectations and engages the audience more than one alone.” This careful blend ensures that The Empire Strips Back in Vegas appeals to both those seeking titillating entertainment and die-hard fans of the source material who appreciate a good laugh.
Why the Force is Strong with This Burlesque Sensation: Attack of the Curves
The show’s global success speaks volumes about its unique appeal. Foster believes the key lies in the unexpected alchemy of the source material and the art form: “It’s amazing how broadly appealing this show is—die-hard Star Wars fans appreciate the detail of the parody, but Star Wars newbies love it just as much. But why? Burlesque and Star Wars together are alchemy! It’s a magic combination that creates something new. Perhaps it’s the mocking parody of a movie universe that took itself so seriously?” This Star Wars parody show manages to entertain a wide audience, from dedicated Star Wars fans in Las Vegas to those simply looking for a unique night out.
Adapting to the Energy: The Rise of Skywalker’s Hemlines
Bringing The Empire Strips Back to Las Vegas required understanding the city’s unique entertainment landscape. Foster shared his perspective: “It feels like Empire Strips Back was just made for Vegas. We’ve presented the show in many cities, but this is such a perfect fit. The Vegas production has been cast with local Vegas dancers—we’re so fortunate to have America’s best dancers living here! The energy in the room is incredible. A Vegas audience wants an experience that’s extreme and unique and something they don’t have at home. The screaming audience at Empire gives them that over-the-top experience.” This adult burlesque show in Las Vegas is perfectly tailored to the city’s appetite for зрелищное and unforgettable entertainment.
More Than Just a Parody: It’s a Trap! (in the Best Way)
Beyond the playful nature of the show, The Empire Strips Back offers a fresh perspective on the iconic saga. Foster elaborated on this, stating, “Coming from the time it did, the original movies feel misogynistic. Empire Strips Back is the opposite. It’s about a group of women taking control, taking agency, dominating the audience as these characters. It’s not about women as assistants or supporters but as tough stars and warriors.” This empowering reimagining adds another layer of depth to the Star Wars burlesque experience.
From Humble Beginnings to Global Sensation: The Force is Strong With This Ensemble
The evolution of The Empire Strips Back has been remarkable. Foster reflected on the journey: “When we opened in San Francisco in 2022, it was a gamble. Could the show work 8 times a week, for weeks and weeks, like a Broadway show? Then the ticket sales went ballistic! The show sold 40,000 tickets in that first San Francisco run. Audiences were literally lined around the block! And just now we’ve opened in Las Vegas and London on exactly the same day. Just like San Francisco, an amazing thrill to open in two of the world’s most important live entertainment cities on the same day!” Now, Las Vegas joins this incredible journey, offering a new stage for this adult Star Wars parody to captivate audiences. Don’t miss your chance to experience The Empire Strips Back at the Rio Hotel & Casino—may the farce be with you!
