Our producer & artistic director

Vesper Valentine  burst onto the glittering stage of Burlesque Glamour & Glitz in 2015 with a captivating fusion of sultry allure and irresistible sass. Since her debut, this enchanting showgirl has mesmerized audiences worldwide, leaving a trail of dazzled spectators in her wake. With a seasoned presence on both Canadian and US Burlesque Festival stages, she's also taken her talents international and has  been accepted into international festivals, spanning from Panama to Croatia.

Vesper is the founder and producer of the Kootenay Burlesque Festival, a platform she created to showcase diverse talent from across the globe and within the community. With a focus on inclusivity and artistry, Vesper has helped shape the festival into a highlight of Nelson’s vibrant burlesque scene.   With a flair for bringing together a diverse spectrum of talent and curating unforgettable experiences, Vesper has helped establish the Kootenay Burlesque Festival as a must-attend celebration of burlesque and performance art.

In addition to her festival work, Vesper is the headmistress of the Kootenay Burlesque Academy, Nelson's first school dedicated to burlesque, where she empowers students to develop their own artistry and performance skills. Her production expertise extends beyond the stage as her work continues to support and elevate emerging talent while fostering a collaborative, supportive space within the burlesque community. Through her production work, she has fostered an environment where inclusivity, artistry, and innovation thrive, setting the stage for the future of burlesque in her community

  Marloe Blu   is a dynamic and multifaceted performance artist celebrated for crafting captivating creations that blend the strange, the beautiful, and the fantastical. Since stepping onto the stage in 2017, he has become a beloved fixture in Nelson’s thriving drag and burlesque scene. 

 Known for his signature production, Fable, and his role as co-producer of the Kootenay Burlesque Festival. Marloe’s artistry consistently pushes boundaries while enchanting audiences. As a performance artist with Dose Productions, he continues to innovate and inspire, delivering unforgettable experiences rooted in creativity and passion. 

 With an ever-active imagination and a flair for the extraordinary, Marloe Blu transforms the stage into a playground of wonder, leaving audiences spellbound.

We are thrilled to welcome the iconic Judith Stein, the Canadian Legend of Burlesque as recognized by the Burlesque Hall of Fame, to the Kootenay Burlesque Festival as our Legend Advisor. With a career spanning decades, Judith Stein brings unparalleled knowledge, experience, and passion to the art of burlesque. In her role as Legend Advisor, Judith will captivate and educate festival attendees with lectures on the rich and colorful history of burlesque, sharing invaluable insights into its evolution and cultural impact. Additionally, she will offer personal mentorship for interested festival attendees, providing a unique opportunity to learn directly from a living legend and refine their connection to this timeless art form.

We are honored to have Judith as part of our festival team, a living bridge between the golden age of burlesque and its exciting modern evolution. Her invaluable contributions will inspire performers, captivate audiences, and celebrate burlesque’s rich legacy as a dynamic, ever-evolving art form that continues to enchant and empower.

  Hella burst onto the Nelson Burlesque scene in 2019 like a blazing coal from a hot fire, igniting stages across BC with her unparalleled talent and charisma. From the prestigious Kootenay Burlesque Festival to various local productions, she's captivated audiences with her dynamic performances.

With a passion for bringing her favorite characters to life and a love for the glitz and glamour of burlesque, Hella's artistic spirit knows no bounds. Her attention to detail and quirky style shine through in every act, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats and leaving them craving more.

It's no surprise that Hella's creativity and charm have led her to become the perfect fit as our special events coordinator. With her sweet and sultry charisma, she ensures every occasion is infused with excitement and flair, making each event an unforgettable experience.

 Meet Nicole, our stage manager extraordinaire, who ensures that everything runs seamlessly behind the scenes. With a passion for live performance and years of experience in the Nelson Theatre community, Nicole brings a wealth of expertise to the Kootenay Burlesque Festival team.

As an active member of the Nelson Theatre community, Nicole has been performing and running productions for many years. Her dedication to the craft and love for live performance shines through in her meticulous attention to detail and commitment to excellence.

Nicole's invaluable experience and unwavering enthusiasm make her an indispensable member of the KBF team. With her at the helm, audiences can rest assured that every aspect of the production will be executed flawlessly, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all.