What is under C3PO’s hard metal exterior?
Would Luke have been warmer in the Tauntaun if he was wearing less clothes?
Do they actually not wear bras in space?
If any of these have crossed your mind, you’ll be pleased to know The Empire Strips Back answers all these questions and more.
Logan Square Auditorium Hosts a Star Wars Burlesque
The Empire Strips Back takes us into the world of the original Star Wars trilogy with this parody burlesque.
A woman sits on top of a land speeder with Nicki Minaj’s Starships blasting. She sexily washes the speeder ending up like the winner in a wet t-shirt contest.
Boba Fett struts on the stage to the sound of Guns N’ Roses stripping out of her armor piece by piece. Lights are bright and flashing to this high-adrenaline number. She pulls out a t-shirt cannon and launches a souvenir t-shirt into the crowd.
And of course, alongside some of the secondary characters like storm troopers and imperial guards---no spoilers here--but Darth Vadar also makes a sexy appearance.
The show balances slow and sultry songs with upbeat pop and rock ones in each of its acts. But one thing it never drops is the party atmosphere. The MC for the evening, Eric Calrissian (nephew of the one and only Lando Calrissian), has the crowd laughing in between performances.
Foster Entertainment Lets Die Hard Fans of Star Wars Rejoice
Aside from all the familiar characters you’ll find in The Empire Strips Back, this production went the extra mile to make their props and set pieces look like they came from the movie itself. The previously mentioned land speeder looks worn and dusty like Luke has been riding it through the sands of Tatooine for years. At the Mos Eisley Cantina, Jabba the Hutt sits front and center looming over the various citizens drinking at the bar. In this writer’s opinion, these add an extra special touch that elevates the show.
Fun For All Burlesque Fans
The Empire Strips Back would be a good fit for anyone who's looking for sexy Star Wars with a bit of comedy thrown in. For those die-hard fans, you’ll love the references and all the recognizable characters as they dance and strut to their own specialty numbers. For those that may not be as big of a fan, don’t worry, you don’t need to have seen the movies and if you’re a fan of burlesque shows, this would also be a good fit for you.
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WHEN:
Through August 13, 2023
Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays: 7:30 p.m.
Fridays: 7 p.m. & 9:30 p.m.
Saturdays: 7 p.m. & 9:30 p.m.
Sundays: 4 p.m. & 7 p.m.
WHERE:
Logan Square Auditorium
2539 N Kedzie Blvd
Chicago
TICKETS:
$39+
For more information and tickets visit the THE EMPIRE STRIPS BACK website.
Photos: Craig Ridgwell
Note: Picture This Post reviews are excerpted by Theatre in Chicago.
About the Author: Alexis Bugajski
Alexis is a theater reviewer, travel bug, media specialist, and burger & beer enthusiast. During the day she works in the advertising business as a senior communications designer. When night falls, or when she can escape to New York, she’s hitting the theaters to see as many shows as she can. And whenever she’s not at her desk or in the audience, she’s out seeking the best burger and beer offerings in Chicago.
Editor's Note: Click here to read more Picture this Post articles by Alexis Bugajski