Burlesque homage to a galaxy far far away (NX5 Theatricals)

The Empire Strips Back: A Star Wars Parody Created by Russell S. Beattie Directed by Bec Morris A review by Beth Beck

Entire contents are copyright © 2024 Beth Beck. All rights reserved.

Star Wars fans, get ready for the raunchiest comedic parody of your childhood memories brought to the stage with the burlesque sensation: The Empire Strips Back! This critically acclaimed tour is swiftly gathering its own niche fan club across the U.S..

First and foremost, this is a burlesque show. If you’ve never been to a performance like this, there are a few things you should know. Yes, it’s based on a story sequence that pays ample homage to the original Star Wars series. No, it is not simply Star Wars characters stripping. The Emcee is a multifaceted character who guides you on how to perceive each scene and react accordingly in a fun and light-hearted manner. Kudos to the Emcee for running to the balcony to incorporate this seat-packed show and keeping people on their toes! The anticipation and build-up he invoked in the crowd left you wanting more. 

Each scene is described poetically and humorously before the curtains roll back. We start with the tauntaun scene from The Empire Strikes Back (V). The performer caressed the stage with grace and poise, subtly shifting from one emotion to the next acrobatic motion to the tune of the background music. My favorite part was how they teased and awed the crowd with the ending bit being the memorable display of the  tauntaun “assisting” in their necessity for survival. Just like Luke, they were wrapped up for warmth at the end of this scene… the timing though! Just as you think they might be showing more than the tauntaun, they spin around with a scarf from the makeshift critter to cover themselves. Beautifully done!

Be sure to save your voice for this show as the audience is intentionally inspired to hoop, holler, and applaud for each individual scene. The return for this effect is well worth the effort though as it inspires the performers to be more provocative and acrobatic with their roles. The lighting, music, props, and stage crafts were on-point. This is a must-see show! 

From sapphic twi-lek’s to jawas, strategically provocative Storm Trooper militia, and honorable mentions for: Slave Leia, R2D2, C3PO, and an ardent sarlaac, you’ll find a scene well-known and loved to fall in love with all over again! 

On a side note, between me and you, readers, if you’ve ever read fanfiction about Star Wars, get ready for the scene with Han Solo and Chewbacca! Their mashed-up musical medley involved poignant choreography that details not only their friendship but also… perhaps a little more. 

Ultimately, you’ll leave the venue wanting more and, if you get into the group mentality the cast and crew offer to share, you’ll feel happily exhausted from your own participation!

If you weren’t able to catch this show in Louisville, keep an eye out for their next performance! With 2025 drawing closer, travel plans are on the horizon. Why not travel to see this traveling performance? The Empire Strips Back offers you a guaranteed fun night filled with the opportunity to make new friends and minimally come home with stories to share with friends. My recommendation: Get your tickets before they sell out!

The Empire Strips Back: A Star Wars Parody NX5 Theatricals Ran completed on December 22 2024 Actors Theater of Louisville 316 West Main St Louisville, KY 40202 https://theempirestripsback.com/