Close encounters of the burlesque kind

Tired of local theatre simply staging foreign scripts?

If so, you're in for a treat at the end of this month, as The Dazzle Troupe returns with yet another edition of their popular burlesque shows - this time playing merry havoc with Maltese history over three nights at 43, Lascaris Wharf, Valletta.

Once again taking the form of an eclectic variety performance - featuring comedy sketches, music and dance - The History of Malta Burlesque Show will present our islands like you've never seen them before.

A couple of alien visitors return to Malta to check up on a recording device they had left on their first visit centuries ago. But when they pop in the historical footage into their viewing devices, they discover that it has been scrambled... and the ensuing chaos will be brought to life by Dazzle's motley band of performers.

Dazzle's shows have been occurring across various venues in Malta since 2009, and have amassed a loyal following which has been growing ever since. Themes have ranged from circus to time travel and even a 'Monster Cruise' - the setting of their previous show, appropriately held on The Black Pearl in Ta' Xbiex.

The shows offer an alternative night of entertainment - away from the standard theatrical productions of English or American plays and aiming for a more local and spontaneous night of creativity and satire with an often darker edge.

Nothing is sacred to the Dazzle Troupe - be they celebrities, politicians, or the audience themselves - and patrons can rest assured that there will be no restraint on the performers' part to deliver a wholly entertaining - and sometimes shocking - night of craziness.

Performers include Alex Vella Gregory, Veronica Stivala, Alex Spiteri Gingell, Joseph Zammit, Bettina Borg Cardona, Pete Farrugia, Marie Claire Camilleri, Lizzie Eldridge, Maria Pia Meli, Marie Claire Pellegrini, Marta Vella, Philip Leone-Ganado, Yannick Massa, Nathan Brimmer, Franco Rizzo and The Brigitte Gauchi Borda dancers choreographed by Lynne Salomone Reynaud.

The shows will be running over March 23, 24 and 25. Spaces are limited so early booking is recommended. To book a place, send an email at [email protected] or by phone/sms on 79 911200. The show is rated 18. Sponsored by The Malta Arts Fund.