Review of Illicit Thrill: Generation XXX, Fringe 2024

Illicit Thrill is now an Edinburgh institution, now in its 10th year! One of the raunchiest (but also deeply respected) late-night burlesque cabaret shows you’ll find at this year’s Fringe, it’s always a delight to rock up to The Voodoo Rooms and feast my eyes on this particular brand of filth.

The official EdFringe description sums it up probably better than I can:

The Fringe’s shadiest nightspot, the Illicit Thrill is back in the strip-teasing business. Leave your inhibitions at the door and pledge to perv responsibly as you meet the teasers who prowl the aisles plying their trade. Join us as we celebrate 10 years of pants and bants stripper-style! When you flash the cash they’ll flash the… 

The vibe

As I took my seat in the Voodoo Rooms‘ Ballroom, myself and the rest of the audience were greeted by performers doing stunts (there’s a lovely big pole, which bodes well).

We’re also handed fake ‘tipping’ dollar bills as we go in, which we’re later encouraged to use to ‘tip’ the performers – the only time where anything even close to touching is really permitted.

Oh yes, there are a few ground rules. Mainly where to stick our tipping dollars, where not to stick our tipping dollars, what happens if you touch a performer (just don’t) and how to adopt the ‘BRACE’ position if it looks like one of the strippers is about to mount you (and how to say ‘no’ if you don’t consent).

The show itself

It was good to see the one and only, the fabulous Gypsy Charms; an absolute legend on the burlesque (or ‘Burghlesque?) scene, once again hosting the show and getting us all well and truly familiar with her ‘Northern Lights’ right from the off.

I really enjoyed the opening lightshow performance this year, also featuring Roxy Stardust (once again, I keep hearing ‘Starmuff’!) and Savannah Duvall. Later in the show, we’re also treated to some mesmerising and tantalising performances by Stacey Clare, and, of course, Gimpy!

There are strip teases, pole dances, a paddling pool shower, and all sorts of other fun acts – as well as some audience participation (wish I could remember the name of the guest performer who completely blew us away with the birthday dance to the lucky audience member who was brought on stage).

I liked the addition of the auction this year, although I didn’t personally bid for anything, but it broke up the show nicely. And, because it was the 10th year, we also got party balloons to throw about the room!

It was a really fun night, with great energy in the room from both the performers and the audience alike – there were also some shout outs for more recommended shows, including for our friends at Hel Cabaret!

Overall

I had a fabulous time at Illicit Thrill, and I think I’ll likely always come back for more. If you love burlesque cabaret, especially on the filthier side, don’t miss this!