“Corsets and Cuties – ICONIC” A Burlesque Cabaret at Orlando Fringe!

Orlando Fringe is back with a wide variety of ticketed performances, a free outdoor stage, an eclectic visual art gallery, and kids’ activities. While there’s simply too much Fringe to cover in a single article, we are doing a series of posts about this incredible Orlando event. In this third installment, we’re visiting the sexier side of Fringe. Let’s take a long look at a lively revue from one of Orlando’s best burlesque troops: Corsets and Cuties – ICONIC!

We were delighted to attend a press preview of this incredibly fun performance. A huge THANK YOU to Orlando Fringe for inviting us out!

What is Orlando Fringe?

Corsets and Cuties – ICONIC will perform at Orlando Fringe, a two-week theater festival focused on unjuried and uncensored works of performance art. While similar festivals exist all over the world, Orlando Fringe is the longest running event of its kind within the United States. Fringe Festivals are generally known for featuring alternative or experimental pieces of art, so you really never know what you’re going to find! 

About Corsets and Cuties

A “Best of Orlando” voted burlesque troupe, Corsets and Cuties performs scintillating shows in various venues around the Central Florida area. Past locations include Theater West End in Sanford, Cocktails and Screams in Downtown Orlando, and, of course, their current production at the Stardust Lounge.

But just as varied as their venues are their show themes. Looking at their social media, you can find previous performances labeled Creepy Cuties, Holiday Kick Off, Villains Night, and an Amateur Burlesque Contest! Keep an eye on their Facebook and Instagram pages for upcoming show announcements!

But Corsets and Cuties isn’t just about the art of the tease. They are what’s known as a burlesque caberet, meaning that each show contains a variety of acts. Some performers may lip sync their selections while others choose to sing live. During my showing of ICONIC, a guest star even engaged in speed cupcake eating during her number. According to the Corsets and Cuties website, other performances might include aerial work, partnered numbers, or other kinds of unique acts.

For more about Corsets and Cuties and pictures from previous performances, check out their website.

Corsets and Cuties – ICONIC

Venue

Corsets and Cuties – ICONIC is not located on the Fringe main campus. Instead it takes place at the Stardust Lounge, a “retro chic” club near Lake Eola.

While it might be a little difficult to find a good parking space (or at least a free parking space), Stardust Lounge is worth the trek! Located on the bottom floor of an otherwise fairly unremarkable apartment building, it was so much fun to find and traverse the narrow set of stairs to the gorgeous, “underground” club!

Arrival

Upon arriving, you can pretty much sit in any open seat inside the lounge. You’ll see that there is a small stage located on the left hand side as you enter. Most of the acts are centered around this area and face out towards the bar and tables. This is important to keep in mind as you choose the best seat(s) for your party.

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Just like any burlesque show, it’s preferred for audience members to bring cash to tip the performers. If your wallet is filled with larger bills, you can “break” them at the cashier sitting next to the lounge entrance. If you forget cash entirely, the Cuties do have a Venmo QR code available. Just ask for one of the handy business cards!

The Show!

Corsets and Cuties – ICONIC according to the Orlando Fringe website,

Best of Orlando-listed Corsets and Cuties are back for round 7 of the Orlando International Fringe Festival with ICONIC.

Join the Cuties as they celebrate their favorite iconic artists in this all-new burlesque cabaret! Located at Stardust Lounge – make sure your bring your sense of adventure, singles to tip the performers, and get ready for a good damn time!

ICONIC celebrates important woman in both history and pop culture. Each performer has chosen a song, costume, and routine that reflects admired and consequential women of our time (some of whom you might expect, and others you definitely won’t). The result is an eclectic mix of music and characters, celebrating women of all shapes, colors, ages, sizes, and styles.

And if you’re looking for eye candy of the male persuasion, Corsets and Cuties – ICONIC also features a bit of “boy-lesque” with Jax N. Augh. A longtime member of the cast, he participates in both solo and ensemble numbers.

Corsets and Cuties – ICONIC opens TONIGHT! There are only four performances throughout this year’s Orlando Fringe Festival, so make sure to grab your ticket!

Freaky Thoughts: Corsets and Cuties

I had never fully experienced burlesque until viewing ICONIC, and I wasn’t exactly sure what to expect. Of course, I knew the basics of what might occur – but I wasn’t sure how I would feel about it. Would it feel like pure objectification? Would I be comfortable in the environment? And as a female audience member, would I feel actively seen or passively ignored?

Despite all those worries, you know what I do love? I love watching other women be who they are, shine in their glory, and revel in their own brand of beautiful. And that is exactly what I found! Instead of my realized fears, Corsets and Cuties brought EMPOWERMENT! These beautiful performers dancing in their rhinestone and sequin-covered splendor were not only the picture of strong, confident grace; but I left feeling seen and inspired to harness my own inner goddess.

If you’re a fan of women in any capacity, I encourage you to check out ICONIC. I ADORED this celebration of important figures, personal strength, and the unique beauty we all possess. I will most definitely be at a future Corsets and Cuties production.

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Tickets for Corsets and Cuties – ICONIC

Corsets and Cuties – ICONIC runs on Fridays and Saturdays (May 20-21 and 27-28). To see a complete listing of available showtimes and to buy your ticket visit Orlando Fringe’s website.

Because 100% of the base ticket price is given directly to the respective artists, you will also need to purchase a reusable 2022 Fringe Festival button. Buttons are $10 and grant access to all the performances at this year’s event (along with an individually purchased show ticket). No matter how many productions you plan to see, you only need one button per person. 

Know Before You Go

• To attend a showing of Corsets and Cuties – ICONIC, you will need to purchase both a show ticket and Fringe Button. You can buy both of these on the Orlando Fringe website.
• This show is a Bring Your Own Venue production, meaning that it is NOT located on the Fringe main campus. Instead you’ll find ICONIC at Lake Eola’s Stardust Lounge!
• While there’s plenty of street parking available near Lake Eola, it can fill quickly. Arrive early to find a suitable space.
• As a burlesque show, this production does contain nudity and mature themes. Viewer discretion is advised.
• The music can be very loud. Wear hearing protection if you are sensitive to loud noise.
• Bring cash to tip the performers.