So they want me to write a post for “Where we go.” Honestly, ever since the 5 Spot burned down here in Philadelphia I would have to say, I go anywhere the Peek a Boo Revue is playing. It’s no secret that some of the girls working with the Video Circus are past or presently affiliated with the Peek a Boo, so this may seem like a shameless plug, but it’s not. They are widely considered one of the best neo-burlesque troupes in the country. They are also one of the most authentic and true to classic form troupes operating out there. They generally stick with the whole variety mix; with comics, singers and the occasional circus or vaudeville act.

I got into a HUGE debate with a Swellco writer whose name will go unmentioned. His stance was that the whole burlesque revival was a response to a subconscious urge for both the audience and the dancers to experience “vice” and justify their voyeur/exhibitionist sexuality without having to get dirty; because this old form of smut is seen now as artistic and clean. My response is “Duh, so what?” His complaint was that these people should drop the pretense and just embrace that they really want to be in a strip club. But I think that’s bullshit. I like sex, A LOT. But that doesn’t mean that it has to be dirty and skanky to be hot. Just like it was back in the day, watching a group like the Peek a Boo is really more about the naked girls than it’s about the art or the comedy. But I would rather see Ginger Leigh or Lulu Lollypop all made up in feathers and beautiful costumes than some pussy smelling stripper named Lexus or Desire rubbing their fake tits on me so they can get another dollar for meth. Just because something is unspoken, doesn’t mean it’s bad, and no matter what your motivations are for going to see the Peek a Boo, you should.

-Felicia Jackson
Swellco & Swellco 22397b

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Photos courtesy of myspace.com/peekaboorevue