Burlesque Show to Raise Funds for Reproductive Rights, Access, and Advocacy
On August 18th, local burlesque performers and dancers will bare their bodies and their art for a good cause.
Justice Laid Bare: A Burlesque Fundraiser for Reproductive Rights will be held at The Rio Theatre on Thursday August 18th, and all proceeds will go to two organizations: the National Network of Abortion Funds in the USA and the Abortion Rights Coalition of Canada.The event will feature some of Vancouver’s top burlesque talent, including: Ariel Helvetica, an internationally-renowned showgirl named one of 21st Century Burlesque Magazine’s Most Influential Performers; RainbowGlitz, a Haida, Squamish, Musqueam, and Black performer and member of Virago Nation, an all-Indigenous burlesque collective; Miss Kiss, local legend whose stunning singing voice and shocking burlesque acts are unparalleled; and Amnesia Haze, a USA-based performer who hails from BC and has performed at festivals across our province.
“Since the devastating loss of abortion rights in the USA, a lot of people want to help but aren’t sure where to put their energy,” said Joyce Arthur, Executive Director of Abortion Rights Coalition of Canada. “What better way to channel our anger than to enjoy a night of powerhouse performances to raise money for our reproductive rights! I’m thrilled that the performers will showcase their own bodily autonomy to make sure others can access abortion safely.”
“We wanted to hold this fundraiser in order to do something very tangible, which is raise money for organizations doing good work both here in Canada and in the USA,” said Halena Lou, one of the show’s co-producers as well as a performer in the show. “As artists, part of our role is to reflect and challenge what’s going on in our world right now, as well as demonstrate alternative futures and possibilities.”
While this show is inspired by protest, attendees can expect more than only dramatic performances. With a wide diversity of styles, performers in this show will bring joy, celebration, humour, heart, and fun as they perform acts about health care, human rights, and reclaiming our own stories.
Tickets begin at $30 and are available on The Rio Theatre’s website at www.riotheatretickets.ca. This is a 19+ event.
