Lively Drag & Burlesque Shows: The Allways Lounge & Cabaret

Planning my trip to New Orleans I wanted to see a Burlesque show and it did not disappoint. We went as a family ranging from ages 21 through to 61 and everyone enjoyed the evening. The cast are extremely talented (Lola, Juno, Mamy, Phoenix, Ariana and Ansleigh). Not just burlesque performance but a true story brought to life with singing, dancing and humour every second. It is one of the best parts of my trip and I would highly recommend.

We were in town for our honeymoon and we did a lot while in New Orleans. But the highlight by far was the Van Ella Bordella Show. We thought it was very entertaining and also very funny. The whole cast was incredible and very talented. Lola Van Ella was very professional with an amazing voice and stunningly beautiful and classy. We were also pleasantly surprised when she announced that this particular show was her 400th performance. She got very emotional when telling the audience this which was very nice and shows how much passion she has for this show. We would highly recommend this while in town just of St Claude so easy to get to and well worth the price for the experience. We will be back the next time we are in New Orleans

We had the best experience watching our first burlesque show. We saw the van ella bordella and she and her cabaret were absolutely fantastic. I don’t really have the words to describe how much I loved this performance. It wasn’t just a strip tease, Lola was a stand up comedian!!! Plus she taught us so much about Storyville and the history of the red light district. The women were so talented with dancing and singing, they truly inspired me to get back on stage. Thank you and I love you so much

Allways is dope. Nicolita Capdevielle is a powerhouse, and her shows are nothing short of amazing. She produces some of the best burlesque in New Orleans — every performance is creative, sexy, and energetic. What makes it stand out is how woman-powered the productions are; you feel that strength and artistry in every show. You can tell a lot of heart goes into each detail, from the performers to the music to the flow of the night. Whether you catch the regular shows at Allways Lounge or one of the other productions she puts on, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable night. If you’re looking for entertainment that’s bold, empowering, and fun af- Nicolita’s shows are where it’s at.

I will never forget my experience at this burlesque, The vibes and entertainment were just so organic and fun! I would definitely recommend stopping by for a show and getting outside of the bourbon st chaos . Such talent !!! Keep up the great work guys

Fantastic show and experience! Not as glitsy and showy as some of the other burlesque venues but overall a better time IMO. It wasn't the typical experience I was expecting but it was a heck of a lot of fun. We saw the emo burlesque and the music was also fantastic. Forwarding for people perhaps expect a show of all females, this is pretty equally split with guys and ladies dancing so know that beforehand.

My first burlesque show for watch The Van Ella Bordella: A story ville burlesque. That was AMAZING !!! Thank you so much for this moment. Truly impress by the women and mostly by Madam Lola Van Ella who do everything perfectly. Definitely will come back ! Guys if you hesitate to take your tickets…Take them, you’ll not regret it !

Thought it was going to be a shady experience but was pleasantly surprised by the show. Absolutely hilarious show. Drinks were great. Inside the club was artistically done, very fun. Staff was welcoming and pleasant. I will definitely go back for another show. Just risky enough to be called a burlesque show but not trashy. All the girls made me and my friends laugh.

BRAVO TO GIA'S CABARET!!! As a playwright who has written a play-with-music and a jukebox musical which was produced at the Allways and currently working on a musical, Gia's production of Cabaret was a revelation. This production was the first that made me understand / “get” that musical (and I’ve seen it on Broadway and seen Liza Minelli in the movie). Burlesque aside (and the burlesque was fantastic) the way Gia & cast & crew served the script and elucidated the narrative was brilliant. Particularly amazing that they only had 2 weeks of rehearsal! Bravo - they should revive it!

I treated myself and a bestie to VIP tix to the van ella bordella show and my only complaint is that my face hurts from smiling so much. Confidence is Queen and this cast is ROYALTY! They breathed life onto the stage and we were there for it! I highly recommend catching this burlesque show and supporting this cast. And definitely splurge on the VIP tickets!

This is easily my favorite place I've been to in nola in the last 10yrs. Cabaret is a lost art, and they nailed the modern adaptation. Sexy, weird, and flat-out hilarious! We saw the Big Damn Show with Juju and Odd Corey. It consisted of drag, burlesque, magic, contortion, sword swallowing, and fire breathing. Pay a few extra bucks for vip to get up close and personal with the performers. I promise it's worth it. We will 100% be returning for different shows any time we're in the city moving forward. Side note: AllWays Lounge is for people who do it ALL WAYS. Don't be intimidated or feel like you don't belong, fellow straight men! Relax and enjoy!

The Always Lounge and Cabaret has been the highlight of our trip to NOLA. We attended 2 shows: Betsy Propane and the Accessories at the Smoke Show Cabaret. Excellent music, fun and silly. Having had so much fun with that show…we returned for Lefty Lucy’s Burlesque Bingo.This, too, was a hoot. (Think Lucille Ball trying to do burlesque.) You actually play bingo, “prizes” are given and it is non stop laughter. An excellent time was had. Both shows are early enough to see and then head over to Frenchmen’s Street to catch music sets there. Pricing is reasonable…bring plenty of $1’s. Not raunchy but a bit racy..all in good fun. Service: 5/5Atmosphere: 5/5

Great bar the swing nights are wonderful! Go for the class at eight on sundays. Bartenders are super sweet & bands are great. Has a small cover. They have burlesque shows in the back. I park in front of the new parking sign, I've never been towed. Food: 5/5Service: 5/5Atmosphere: 5/5 Reservation Reservations not required Group size 3-4 people Wait time No wait Parking options Free street parking

I went to the Van Ella Bordella show last week, and it’s now one of my top recommendations in this unique and beautiful city. The blend of Storyville’s rich history with a comedic twist on its characters was marvelous. Mamie Dame was an absolute standout—her energy radiated a true love for where she was and what she was doing. It’s rare to see a performer put so much of themselves into their art, and the way she’s crafted her dance is mesmerizing. I had the chance to speak with her after the show and was struck not only by her natural beauty but also by her deep knowledge of history. You can feel how much she loves this city, even through its darkest days. The entire cast was incredible, but there’s no denying that Mamie will cast a spell on you. And most likely, steal your heart 🫀 Food: 5/5Service: 5/5Atmosphere: 5/5

I will never forget my experience at this burlesque, The vibes and entertainment were just so organic and fun! I would definitely recommend stopping by for a show and getting outside of the bourbon st chaos . Such talent !!! Keep up the great work guys