A small town singer, Ali (Christina Aguilera), moves to the big city for her chance at stardom where she is enchanted by Burlesque, a glamorous nightclub packed with dancers, sizzling music, and an owner (Cher) in need of a star. This very campy musical was mostly panned by critics but struck a chord with audiences who felt its feelgood factor, songs, and spirit to overcome its flaws and turn it into a fun, guilty-pleasure viewing experience.
This Divas Do Film screening will be followed by a panel hosted by curator Rōgan Graham in conversation with members of Friends of the Joiners Arms and the writers behind upcoming book Sweat Ceilings to discuss the future of music venues and the destruction of London nightlife by greedy landlords.
Friends of the Joiners Arms is a Community Benefit Society campaigning to open an accessible, not-for-profit, community-run queer space in London
Sweaty Ceilings is a book by Sophie Mo and Tash Cutts which celebrates London's landmark independent music venues, focusing on the history and untold stories behind each one.
We encourage the audience to sing along to the film's tunes!
