SAN DIEGO (KGTV) - From a —risqué — galaxy far, far away comes a twist on "Star Wars" that could make a Stormtrooper blush.
"The Empire Strips Back - A Burlesque Parody" heads to San Diego's Spreckels Theater next month, featuring a unique (and obviously, 18 years or older) take on the iconic film franchise.
"Empire Strips Back" combines striptease, song, dance routines as burlesque dancers perform as Stormtroopers, Boba Fett, droids, and even Darth Vader and a Skywalker.
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"We never stop developing the show — always trying to make it bigger and crazier, and, yes, reach the standard of quality of the films," show creator Russall Beattie says. "Everywhere we go, our fans are passionate and excited, and they deserve an unforgettable, fun night out."
The word "burlesque" is derived from words meaning "parody" or "caricature," making Beattie's promise of "plenty of Aussie humor" all the more guaranteed. And of course, while taking clothes off is a part of the show, nudity is not — routines are still scantily-clad and provocative performances.
The show started as a small production in 2011, only expected to run for a few nights as a one-off in Sydney, Australia. Those shows ended up selling out and igniting multiple sold-out tours around Australia.
Now, Beattie is taking his burlesque-rival show overseas.
"The artistic direction guiding every Star Wars-inspired burlesque show has its' own personality, giving audiences the opportunity to appreciate different versions of the genre," Beattie says.
The Empire Strips Back - A Burlesque Parody
When and Where: June 2 at 8 p.m. at Spreckels Theater
Tickets: $45 to $75. The show is for ages 18 and older.
More information: EmpireStripsBack.com
