2023 Performer Applications

Performers from everywhere are invited to apply to compete or perform in one of our showcases. We welcome acts of all styles and performers of any shape, size, color, ability, background or economic class. Please see information and guidelines below, if you still have questions after reviewing the application you may email our Competition Coordinator.

Application Scholarships are provided by Miss Spent Youth’s Academy of Mischief to those in economic need on a case-by-case basis. Please contact Miss Spent Youth for more information.

Please note we are not able to assist with travel expenses at this time, but we will make every effort to assist in finding housing for out-of-town performers – based on availability.

Unfortunately we are not able to offer a performance spot for every applicant. However, we will extend a discount code for the next festival’s application to those who are not accepted this year.

The Competition

Applications open: August 22th, 2022 12pm PT. Application closes Nov 1st, 10pm PST.
Titles might include:

  • Miss Hollywood Burlesque – Female presenting performers
  • Mr. Hollywood Burlesque – Male presenting performers
  • Hollywood Starlet – Anyone performing burlesque for three years and under
  • Best Duet or Group – Any act incorporating more than one person
  • Variety – Acts including but not limited to fire, hoop, lyra, ect.
  • Silver Screen Siren – Sing and strip acts

As opposed to previous festivals all titles are open to performers from anywhere.

Guidelines

Acts will be judged on the following categories:

-Tease Factor: The overall utilization of the art of Striptease

-Musicality: How the act works with the music

-Polish/Stage Presence: Encompassing the tightness of the act, stage utilization and all around stage presence of the performer

-Costume/Hair and Makeup: How these elements work to improve and match the act as a whole. 

Please note that all acts must include striptease and may be no longer than 5 minutes

  •  Application fee is $20 through September 30th is $20. After October 1st the application fee is $40
  • No music over 5 minutes.
  • No nudity. Pasties and g-string are required as minimum costume pieces.
  • You may submit as many times as you like, but you will only be allowed to compete in one solo. We suggest you submit your strongest act.
  • You may compete in both a solo and a group act. You may not compete in more than one group act.
  • Age Requirement: 21
  • Anyone engaging in online bullying, harassment or other conduct unbecoming of a performer will be removed from consideration

Showcases

The Hollywood Burlesque festival offers several showcases in addition to the competition. Our goal is to highlight a variety of performers from the Southern California area and beyond. All Competition submissions will also be considered for the showcase (unless otherwise indicated on the application). If you’d like to apply for the showcase only please mark your application appropriately.

Showcase opportunities include:

  • Classic Burlesque
  • Neo-Burlesque
  • Cosplay/ Comedy Acts
  • Featured Spots in Sponsor Showcases

Tickets and Compensation for Performers

Each performer invited to perform will be offered a pass for the entire festival and a gift bag. Classes are offered at an additional cost.

If you are chosen to participate in HBQF, you cannot perform your festival act within 30 miles of Los Angeles, California, two weeks before or two weeks after HBQF. HBQF staff are unable to accommodate requests to perform on a different night from the night for which a performer is selected.

Ready to Apply?

Fill out the application & make your payment. Good Luck!

Applications Are Now Closed