Never in my wildest dreams have I imagined someone flashing her pasties at the iconic strike of a G note. Morticia Midwest started the night with a bang (or flash if you prefer) to the tune of “Welcome to the Black Parade” by My Chemical Romance.
Morticia Midwest and her husband, Johnny Bravado, created the “Panic! at the Burlesque Show” series as an extension of their dramatic flair, inclusive stage spaces and love for emo music.
Midwest’s MCR performance happened this spring at xBk in Des Moines for the “Panic! at the Burlesque Show Vol. 4.5: Welcome to the Rhinestone Parade.” The title may be a mouthful, but it’s right on theme: over-the-top, emotionally charged and undeniably fabulous. In short, it’s the perfect tribute to the genre that raised a generation of eyeliner-wearing weirdos and romantics.
“I am and always will be an emo kid at heart,” Morticia Midwest said. “[Johnny Bravado and I] decided to produce a show we both wanted to see and be in.”
This year’s production doubled as a birthday bash for Morticia Midwest. But she wasn’t the only birthday in the crowd; performer CC Pebbles, tip kitten The Artist Formerly Known As, and a few audience members were there to celebrate their own special days.
The birthday bash was my first introduction to the burlesque community, and I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. The intimate venue created a lively and interactive show with a creative, emo flair. The lines blurred between the stage and seating area, with performers whirring past, dancing on the floor and throwing garments in the laps of glowing audience members (glowing because guests could purchase glow necklaces, which invited interactions from performers).
It was up-close and personal, but that’s the best way to experience art.
“I usually get to cast all my favorite people for the show,” Midwest said. “Every single act is something that could be a closing act in any other lineup.” The sentiment rings true.
Throughout the night, each performer brought not just skill but real heart to their performance, whether it was the moody, slow dance “Helena” by Dusty Flamingo, or the dramatic, lively duo of Lucifer Jest and Atlas Diamond to “Partners in Crime.”
Dusty Flamingo performing. — Photo by Danny Does Pix courtesy of the artists. 
Performers Atlas Diamond and Lucifer Jest — Photo by Danny Does Pix courtesy of the artists. 
Performers Miss Fyneapple and Billy Psyko. — Photo by Danny Does Pix courtesy of the artists. 
Morticia Midwest and Johnny Bravado. — Photo by Danny Does Pix courtesy of the artists.
CC Pebbles journeyed from Omaha, Nebraska to perform a cover of “Mama” by My Chemical Romance, recorded and sung themself. Their costume and marionette prop piece created a compelling visual and story.
Each performance had something memorable to offer; unfortunately, word count inhibits my ability to give each the praise it deserves.
More than just a themed night of erotic dancing, Panic! at the Burlesque Show is a celebration of creative freedom and personal growth. For Morticia Midwest, who began performing burlesque in 2022, the stage has been a transformative space.
“I have been dabbling in any sort of creative field that strikes my fancy for my entire life,” Midwest said. “I feel like I have grown a lot … Burlesque has gotten me to sing live a couple of times, which you would not have caught me doing … I have felt comfortable in the community to be able to experiment with my own performance style over the past three years.”
If you’re in central Iowa and looking to dip a toe into burlesque, whether as a performer or a curious fan, Midwest recommends checking out desmoinesburlesque.com. You’ll find everything from local shows to performer classes and open stages across the state. The scene is welcoming, the crowds are enthusiastic and the eyeliner is plentiful.
And if you ever get the chance to witness someone strip down to their soul (and their pasties) to emo music, take it. Your inner emo kid will thank you.
