The Burlesque Hall of Fame (BHoF) in the Arts District of downtown Las Vegas is closing its museum doors on July 20 due to a significant drop in visitation and funding challenges. The decline in tourism, particularly international travel, has severely impacted museum attendance, and the withdrawal of federal funding has further strained financial resources. Despite these challenges, BHoF plans to continue hosting its annual “Weekender” event and maintain its collection outside the museum facility.
The Hall of Fame is not shutting down entirely but is putting its costly museum operations on hold to safeguard its collection and community events. Executive Director Dustin Wax is exploring ways to preserve the “Weekender” and the museum’s collection. The Neon Museum has reached out to offer support during this transition.
The next “Weekender,” featuring the “Tournament of Tease,” is scheduled for June 5-8 at The Orleans. Meanwhile, other burlesque events continue to thrive in Las Vegas, with Dita Von Teese performing at Voltaire at The Venetian, and “The Empire Strips Back — A Burlesque Parody” recently opening at the Rio.
The BHoF, originally curated by Dixie Evans, moved from Helendale, California, to Las Vegas in 2006, and has been at its current location since 2018. Its exhibits have showcased iconic items such as Dita Von Teese’s martini glass prop and Gypsy Rose Lee’s traveling trunk. The museum also featured rotating thematic exhibitions with theater marquees, posters, and artwork.
