Montreal turned up the glamour in the most spectacular way imaginable, and the Montreal Burlesque Festival 2026 was an absolute triumph from the first curtain call to the last.
Founded by performer and producer Scarlett James, the annual celebration of burlesque and cabaret returned from October 15 to 17, with its main performances taking over Club Soda in the heart of the Quartier des Spectacles. Artists from around the world gathered for a weekend of live shows, workshops, and special events, including three major shows across Friday and Saturday and activities for audiences and aspiring performers alike.
This year’s edition was inspired in part by the golden age of cabaret, a vision brought to life by Scarlett James herself. The stage was filled with elaborate costumes, dramatic lighting, expressive choreography, comedy, music, and the timeless art of the tease. Some performances embraced the elegance of vintage Hollywood, while others explored contemporary themes, bold characters, and unexpected forms of artistic expression.
The lineup was nothing short of extraordinary. Scarlett James, the festival’s founder, captivated with the glamorous stage presence that has made her a defining figure in Montreal’s burlesque scene. Miss Chrissy Kiss brought her distinctive international style to the stage. Chanelle De Mai delivered the sophisticated showgirl aesthetic and refined dance technique she is celebrated for. Velvet Jones, whose work spans performance, costume design, and burlesque education, showcased her remarkable range. And Mr Victor Victoria brought personality and theatricality to every moment.
But beyond the sparkle and the spectacle, burlesque has always been about something deeper. It celebrates individuality, creativity, body confidence, and the art of captivating an audience. Whether you were a longtime enthusiast or discovering this world for the very first time, the festival offered entertainment that was playful, provocative, and unapologetically artistic.
The Montreal Burlesque Festival proved once again that this city knows exactly how to celebrate bold self-expression with style.
Photos VASILI VROULIS
