On our visit to New Orleans, we attended the Van Ella Bordella burlesque show at the AllWays Lounge and Cabaret, and they did not disappoint! We all had a great time, and I highly recommend checking it out if you enjoy well done burlesque shows with a great costumes. This one even gives you a history lesson!
There are no pics allowed during the actual show, so the pic below is just my friends and me on stage before the show started.
The Van Ella Bordella Review
The infamous Van Ella Bordella is a seductive and theatrical tribute to the scandalous splendor of the New Orleans Storyville era. I gave it 5 stars on Yelp!
Hosted by the captivating Madam Lola van Ella, this immersive evening invites you into a world of decadent delights, sultry storytelling, and unforgettable burlesque.
The girls change roles for each performance, so you never know who will be the Madam of the evening. Our host was Gigi, and she was so amazing we all had girl crushes by the time we left.
A Bit of History and a Lot of Burlesque
Prepare to be entertained by a dazzling cast of witty, talented courtesans through a mix of live music, comedy, singing, and show-stopping solo and group performances.
The Van Ella Bordella is more than a show—it’s an experience with a unique blend of history, humor, and sensuality.
I loved the history they wove into the story, even explaining how stripe thigh high stockings became a popular choice of the residents of Storyville! They also sell the stockings at the show so you can take home a pair for yourself.
I used to sell those same stockings at my costume shop years ago, so I actually already own a pair of those scandalous vertical stripe thigh high stockings! (click the link to find them on Amazon)
Produced and curated by internationally acclaimed showgirl Lola van Ella, this acclaimed production has been hailed as “mind-blowing,” “sexy, hilarious, and unexpected,” and “one of the best shows” audiences have ever seen.
Come with an open mind, a bold spirit, and a readiness for revelry—you’re in for a night you won’t soon forget. And don’t forget to bring those $1 bills for the girls. They deserve it!
And just to note- you may be surprised that you will see actual naked breasts. We live in Florida, where they have strict laws on pasties and even how wide thongs can be for dancers. New Orleans is much more accepting of nudity apparently. But it is all done in a very tasteful manner!
You can get tickets at: The Van Ella Bordella: A Storyville Burlesque Tickets, Multiple Dates | Eventbrite
I got the VIP tickets that come with a front row table and glass of champagne. We enjoyed our spot, but really every seat in the place has a good view!
Please Note:
- A valid ID is required for entry to the Allways Lounge.
- Arrive early—once the show begins, late arrivals may be held in the lobby until the opening scene concludes.
- No refunds will be issued.
- If you’ve purchased tickets separately but want to sit with a group, please email vanellatickets@gmail.com to coordinate.
- Need tipping dollars? The house manager will be happy to help.
AllWays Lounge and Cabaret
The AllWays Lounge is the bar area, where they also have drag shows. This is also where you go to get your drinks during the show.
The bar was decorated really fun, and the drag show that was going on while we were in the burlesque show looked pretty great too. We caught the last bit of it on our way out.
If you are visiting New Orleans, or live there and never checked this place out, definitely give it a try! We had a lot of fun and I would totally go back again.
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