This contest is designed to hold space for performers who offer something out of the ordinary. This exists for the alternative, daring, dark, abstract fringe of burlesque.

From high energy rock enthusiasts, to emotive journey-takers, to realm altering creatures. Glamour and gore. From glitz to grotesque

As New Zealand’s only competition for the kind of burlesque we see thriving in the dark, underground scene, this event promises a dazzling mix of glamour and gore, featuring eight talented performers from all Aotearoa. 

The competition spans two rounds: the first enchants with seductive elegance, while the second delves into the strange, dark, mysterious and macabre. 

The intention is to highlight burlesque’s duality and the emotive power of performance art, offering a platform for those challenging conventional norms.

The importance of competitions in our community is immesuraeble. Aotearoa has such a unique and special way in which we do comps. Burlesque Noir in particular is a way to showcase the immense duality and range of ourselves as artists. We can do deeply conseptuall performance art, as well as the sparkly beautiful (dark) burlesque. For the burlesque community, competition is a fun way of coming together and supporting each other's success! We love seeing each other win at life! It feels so amazing that an artist can stand up there and put their most raw thoughts into this physical realm. It is so special. We are so privileged to have glimpses into their minds, we as an audience feel humbled that they share it with us. The human race is so blessed to have the ability to create art.

The goal of this competition is to constructively critique the over all execution of the concept. Not the reason the concept exists. That is yours. Your art is very greatly received and appreciated and of course, valid.

After 5 years running, Nocturne Sanctum has put this event to rest.