June 9, 2024
No Manors: Bar and Lounge | NoManorsBar.com
“A strip tease is a great mental stimulus. It’s educational in the most delightful manner.”
Gypsy Rose Lee
The above quote may seem absurd and biased to most, especially since it’s the infamous and legendary Gypsy Rose Lee, but the creative team and performers down at No Manors seem to have the very same thought.
Drawing inspiration from iconic establishments like The Box in NYC and the rich history of vaudeville, No Manors set out to carve out its own path in the way of entertainment. Burlesque, a quintessentially American art form and often associated with the female form, has captivated audiences throughout the years from luminaries like the aforementioned Ms. Lee to today’s notable stars Dita Von Teese or Carmen Elektra who was one of the original dancers of the PussyCat Dolls, the very same Dolls that led to the birth of the pop sensation of the same name.
In No Manors burlesque has become a focal point of their weekends with performers, subverting expectations of its guests by bending the norms of gender and sexuality resulting in a unique alluring experience.
“We wanted to create a space where people feel seen, heard, valued, and celebrated—where there are no rules, only endless possibilities,” says Steven Bialos, the brainchild behind No Manors and its concept. “That idea also extends to the performers, not just the guests.”
“It’s about celebrating the freedom of expression, embracing the artists and letting go of expectations,” says Joshua Kenney, No Manors Events and Entertainment Director. Kenney, a former performer and member of Actors Equity, has championed the idea for their own production since coming on board and to be vigilant that they never take the talent for granted.
The entertainment at No Manors, as unique as it was, wasn’t always so cohesive in tone or style. It took several months, but with a few tweaks like suggesting a later start time for entertainment and a look and vibe that oozes sex, No Manors found its niche and its stars. Enter Phoenix and Damien Lenore, who headline Friday and Saturday nights. Each night the duo asks that guests join them on a journey of intrigue, seduction, and sometimes even laughter. They are the heart and soul of the burlesque at No Manors. If you have been lucky enough to witness them together or separately, their chemistry and magnetic presence is undeniable.
People have come from all over southern Florida to see what is happening on stage and now what began as a venue primarily known for its ambiance and its unusual entertainment is now turning its attention to self-producing shows that are unique to the drive and set them apart from their peers.
The pair, along with Mr. Kenney began to create a project that spoke true to them and felt in alignment with the bar’s guiding principle: expect the unexpected. It began as a simple showcase featuring the Lenore duo and has now evolved into something more akin to an immersive theatrical experience.
“Etiquette just started out as a little idea of trying to create a night of burlesque that was different from what we usually do on Friday and Saturday nights,” explains Phoenix Lenore. “We wanted to showcase both classic burlesque and the evolution of the art form, blending elements of comedy, sensuality, and storytelling.”
The show, however, took on a life of its own with the introduction of the show’s Madame. “Mad Matilda, as she is also known, brought a whole new energy to the stage,” Damien Lenore recalls. Matilda was at first intended only to be a feature in rotation. “I was watching the audience be completely enthralled with her as if they were all lovesick puppies. That’s a gift.” In her, Kenney saw a missing piece, a leading lady. And a chance for the show to be more than just a burlesque pageant.
What makes Etiquette truly magical is its ability to transport the audience into a world of glamor, humor, and sensuality. While captivating performances by Damien and Phoenix, and the dominating sultry voice of Mad Matilda stand as its foundation, it’s the rotation of featured performers like the provocative Nicky Monet or the alluring Scorpion Queen, Kymera, that keep things fresh. As if that’s not enough, the main cast will routinely change up their numbers while creating new numbers for the show.
“So, it’s literally a new experience every week,” Mr. Kenney explained excitedly, who has even written book scenes to give the show a structure in which to live. Kenney drew inspiration from classic shows like Anything Goes and off-Broadway hits like Silence!, a musical parody of Silence of the Lambs.
As the countdown to Etiquette’s opening night draws closer, Bialos’ dream with No Manors and mission to create memories almost seem inevitable. Looking toward the future, the success of Etiquette so far is a good sign and it hopes to open doors to exciting new projects at No Manors. Admission is $15, a modest investment for an evening filled with such talent. The creative team wants you to know that your ticket purchases go directly towards the performers and also include a complimentary cocktail – who can argue with that?
Seating for Etiquette is limited and available by reservation only with seats available for purchase at the bar on the day of the show.
Content Courtesy of OutClique Staff Writer
