Frisky Flings: 'The Empire Strips Back' Ignites Las Vegas

A new series has arrived, promising to transport you to a tantalizing universe light-years from here. Dive into the shadows for an evening filled with gasps, awe, chuckles, and unforgettable experiences.

“ The Empire Strips Back Is a satirical take on burlesque performances, standing out from all other such shows. This production combines daring sensuality with strip-tease routines featuring reinterpretations of famous figures, playful wit, and spectacular choreography.

The program has just arrived. Las Vegas, similar to the Millenium Falcon, and aims to provide entertainment for both " Star Wars both long-time fans and new arrivals alike.

"The Empire Strips Back" made its debut at the Rio Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas on May 4th.

May the Fourth be with you! And indeed it was. Rio Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas when " The Empire Strips Back It made its first appearance on Sunday evening.

Regardless of whether you're a devoted "Star Wars" enthusiast or not, this series is something everyone aged 18 and up can appreciate.

These aren't the Stormtroopers and Droids familiar to your grandparents from the movies. Instead, they're the ones that will haunt your dreams. The casting has really brought out the power of the Force.

Eric Newton is at the helm, bringing abundant laughter, enthusiastic applause, and genuine wonder to the event.

The Vegas Spectacular Was Assembled in Only a Matter of Weeks

Mariah Lewis, who serves as an associate choreographer for the Las Vegas performance, informed The Blast that the production was put together rather swiftly.

"We held auditions roughly three weeks back. Things moved quite swiftly after that. We auditioned candidates, selected only local actors for this production, and commenced rehearsals just last week," she shared with The Blast exclusively.

We needed to ensure we had well-trained experts who were agile, intelligent performers capable of swiftly learning new routines. The production involves many dynamic elements. Beyond just the dance moves, we also have to consider the costumes, set design, and lighting.

The ensemble includes 10 dancers along with two substitutes, and they will perform six evenings each week.

I hope viewers understand that this is all about enjoyment. As long as they remain receptive and are having fun, they will appreciate some part of the performance," she stated. "Being a 'Star Wars' enthusiast isn't necessary, although it certainly adds to the experience.

Over a decade ago, Lewis began their career as a dancer in Los Angeles, performing in numerous shows and for various sports teams. They later transitioned into choreography.

I used to perform with the Clippers and the Rams, doing plenty of professional gigs in the entertainment business," she stated. "Two years back, I was part of this production. I advanced to become the team leader and am now an associate choreographer. My experience includes performances in Mexico City, San Diego, and currently here in Las Vegas.

Stunning "Star Wars" Characters Captivate and Amuse Viewers

The Sin City ensemble features Gabrielle Potapenko as Boba, Kennedy Sciarini as R2D2 and Leia, Jasmyn Sosa as Jedi, Reese Schwarzentraub as Vader, along with Mocha Mullins, Bobbi Barricella, Annaka Vong, and Joanne Daquigan portraying Stormies, hosted by Eric Newton.

Before the inaugural performance on Sunday evening, Barricella spoke with The Blast. She takes on several characters and has previously appeared in this production in various other locations.

"I take on several different characters. I portray an Imperial Guard, C3PO, an officer serving the Emperor, and a Stormie (Stormtrooper)," she mentioned following the red carpet photographs.

“ I recently handled their Florida contract a few months back," she stated. "We traveled to Miami, Tampa, and Orlando, and I was keen on continuing with this project. When I found out they planned to extend it to Las Vegas, I was thrilled and felt incredibly fortunate to join in.

For Barricella, dancing has been an integral part of her life from a very early age.

My mother enrolled me in a ballet class when I was just 2 years old, and that pretty much set the course for my future," she shared. "While I also enjoy singing and acting, I have a special fondness for bringing characters to life onstage in these kinds of productions. The experience is quite distinct from performing in typical burlesque shows.

She aims for those thinking about attending the show to understand that it represents a "trip inside another trip."

It's unlike anything you've experienced previously. This show is a voyage nested inside another voyage," she shared with The Blast. "Every separate performance conveys its distinct narrative, and our host Eric is remarkable. He'll have you laughing, cheering, and this experience is entirely unprecedented.

Darth Vader... But Turn Her Into a She and Make Her Seductive!

Reese Schwarzentraub takes on the prized part of Darth Vader, yet this version differs from what you might expect. (If you’re imagining him at the moment, chances are he’s dressed more elaborately than usual.)

I have the opportunity to portray Darth Vader, which is incredibly enjoyable, particularly since Darth Vader is typically male, but we're adding our own spin,” she explained to The Blast. “I get to embody a distinctively sultrier and more potent iteration of him, infusing it with my personal touch. It's really entertaining. I stride onto the stage wearing towering stilettos and just dive right into it.

Since she was just 2 years old, her parents enrolled her in dance lessons, and ever since then, she has been passionate about dancing. Her upcoming production in Las Vegas marks her second such performance; similarly, her initial show was also a burlesque presentation titled "The Empire Strips Back."

Schwarzentraub aims to convey that one doesn’t need to be a devotee of "Star Wars" to genuinely appreciate this series.

" Enjoy yourself completely. Don't approach it with any preconceived notions or previous understanding," she stated. "Simply bring an open mindset, have some fun, join in our laughter, root for us, and savor every moment.

A Star-Studded Red Carpet Event in Las Vegas Suitable for a Jedi

In honor of the premiere night for "The Empire Strips Back" at the Rio Hotel & Casino, a private red-carpet ceremony was held onstage. Cast members appeared in their costumes on the red carpet before addressing inquiries from journalists. Notably, they were joined by a distinguished celebrity guest—Holly Madison—on the red carpet as well.

Madison, who adores both "Star Wars" and burlesque, was thrilled to attend the new performance.

“I’ve loved 'Star Wars ' Since my childhood, I've had a passion for burlesque, which is why I'm thrilled about this performance," Madison stated prior to the event, as mentioned in a press release provided to The Blast. "I appreciate highly imaginative concepts within burlesque, and I am certain that tonight’s showcase will deliver such creativity. I have watched a brief preview of the 'Jabba the Hutt' act and am looking forward to experiencing more."

The atmosphere was electric, and it was clear that everyone was fully committed to enjoying a fantastic night of entertainment.

Having attended numerous Las Vegas performances over the last several months, this particular show perfectly aligned with my preferences. I approached it without any preconceived notions, which added an element of excitement. For those who appreciate exceptional Vegas entertainment—an experience worth sharing—this production certainly measures up. It boasts high-energy antics, comedic elements, contemporary cultural allusions, and naturally, plenty of allure.