The Empire Strips Back
If you’ve ever wondered what Star Wars would look like with a whole lot more sass, side-boob, and sudsy space cruisers, then The Empire Strips Back is the show you’ve been looking for. Making its UK premiere, this burlesque parody blasts off into hyperspace with a wink, a shimmy, and lots of skin (human and droid). Whether you're a seasoned Jedi Master or just here for a great night out, this intergalactic romp is sure to deliver.
At its core, the show’s concept is simple: take iconic Star Wars moments and characters and reimagine them through the fabulous, tongue-in-cheek lens of burlesque. Choreographed routines are stitched together by the emcee for the evening, comedian Pete Dobbing, dressed in an Imperial Officer costume. Relating directly to the crowd, Dobbing encourages various forms of participation—Wookiee growls and R2-D2 screeches are encouraged—while also laying down the do’s and don’ts of burlesque etiquette. Dobbing returns after the interval as a Rebel Pilot, a costume change that perfectly sums up the show’s gleeful commitment to cramming in as much Star Wars lore as possible.
Highlights include Luke Skywalker’s sensual sponge bath atop her landspeeder and a hilariously grotesque-yet-glamorous tauntaun scene where guts and giggles abound. C3PO finds herself stripped for spare parts by a crew of particularly handsy Tusken Raiders, while Leia’s infamous Jabba-the-Hutt moment takes on a whole new life—complete with a disturbingly lively tongue. And yes, in case you were wondering, Han definitely shoots first... and he might just dance second.
What truly sets The Empire Strips Back apart, however, are its production values. The attention to detail in the set, lighting, and especially the costumes, is out of this world. Fans of the original films will spot loving references tucked into every corner. It’s a parody made by fans for fans, and the devotion to the source material is clear.
While the energy in the transitions between scenes occasionally dips, the sheer variety and cleverness of the routines keep things moving at light speed. The female-heavy cast delivers performances that balance seduction, humour, and incredible physicality, proving this is more than just novelty—it’s talent in action. That being said, if you’re hoping for male dancers, Han Solo—and a suitably saggy Emperor Palpatine—will have to suffice.
Is it risqué? Definitely! This is certainly not one to bring young padawans to. But it also never feels crude. It feels like the best of burlesque: suggestive, smart, and delightfully self-aware. The tone is more cheeky than crass, making it the perfect night out whether you're a die-hard Star Wars fan or just in the mood for something a little bit different.
The Empire Strips Back is a hilarious, high-energy tribute to the galaxy’s most iconic saga, where lightsabers meet lingerie and the Death Star is not a moon – it’s a disco wrecking ball. May the farce be with you!
This show was reviewed on the 4th May 2025 at the Riverside Studios, London where it runs until the 17th August 2025. Tickets available here: The Empire Strips Back | Riverside Studios
Review written by Ben LaMontagne-Schenck
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Photo credit: Craig Ridgwell
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