The internationally acclaimed spectacle, *The Empire Strips Back: A Burlesque Parody*, is sashaying its way to Hammersmith’s Riverside Studios for its London debut starting 2 May, with a gala night on the oh-so-appropriate May the Fourth. Initially set to wrap up on 22 June, the producers have decided to keep the party going due to overwhelming demand—thousands of tickets are now up for grabs until 17 August. Get yours here before they vanish faster than a Jedi mind trick!
This cheeky extravaganza features parodies of all your favourite characters and whisks audiences off to a surreal galaxy far, far away. It’s an unforgettable (and entirely unauthorised) theatrical romp through the beloved franchise, complete with burlesque fantasy, menacing yet sexy dance moves, dangerous seduction—and yes—even those droids you’re looking for! Expect your cherished characters scantily clad and seriously sultry live on stage.
*The Empire Strips Back* celebrates a revival of burlesque while delivering an absurdly fun and riotous experience for fans of both the art form and classic films. With comedy and allure in loving detail, this parody drops iconic figures into hilariously unexpected scenarios. What began as a cramped three-night gig in Sydney has blossomed into three simultaneous productions touring North America with over 300,000 enthusiastic viewers—and even went viral with over 20 million views on Huffington Post!
This little-show-that-could has evolved from indie band-style tours in dive bars to Broadway-esque smash hits (and let’s be honest—way more fun!). After earning its stripes at Hollywood’s Montalban Theatre during a three-month run in 2022, it’s enjoyed extended residencies across major US cities like New York and Chicago—not forgetting sold-out shows Down Under in Australia as well as Parisian escapades and Mexican fiestas! Now it’s London’s turn.
Produced by Foster Entertainment alongside Neil Gooding Productions—and presented with Fever—the show was created by Russall S. Beattie himself! Producer Neil Gooding enthused: “Bringing *The Empire Strips Back* to London is like living out our wildest dreams! From humble beginnings as a passion project in Sydney bars all around Oz & beyond—we’re finally arriving at one of theatre’s greatest capitals where much Star Wars magic first happened!” Meanwhile producer David J Foster added: “Londoners brace yourselves—you’re about embark upon wild ride full laughter & unforgettable moments—we simply cannot wait!”
Buy your tickets here The Empire Strips Back | Riverside Studios
