Leave your droids at home; this spicy burlesque show is what you might call a sight for short circuits. The Empire Strips Back has already stunned the crowds in multiple cities worldwide, and now it has plotted its route to Leeds. Taking over the sprawling Testbed venue in mid-February, the deviously fun parody invites you to embrace the dark side as all your favourite Star Wars characters take to the stage for some epic dances, sensual stripteases, mind-warping rap performances and much more. Let’s just say the force is strong with this show.
12 February 2026 19:30 + more dates
What can you expect at The Empire Strips Back?
Safe to say this isn’t Star Wars as you know it – you’ll be transported to another galaxy altogether at this stellar burlesque parody. One where a thigh-slapping Darth Vader performs a synchronised dance with scantily-clad stormtroopers, a giant tongue-waggling Jabba the Hutt raps along to The Notorious B.I.G and a luminescent C-3PO is stripped for parts.
The Empire Strips Back takes you on a wild ride through iconic scenes from the franchise, from a surprisingly seductive spin on Luke’s tauntaun encounter on the ice planet Hoth to Leia delivering a suggestive ballet-style performance for a bewitched R2-D2. Everything from the expertly crafted props to the creative costumes brings the universe of the much-loved films to life in an unexpected new way. Plus, a wise-cracking compère is at hand for an extra dose of hilarity, keeping the Star Wars puns and witty banter in full flow throughout the show.
Following epic runs in the US, Mexico, Canada, and a dazzling turn in London, The Empire Strips Back will treat Leeds to its unique blend of sci-fi seduction, surprises and spoofs early next year. With Indianapolis Monthly calling it ‘burlesque at its finest’ and LAWeekly stating that ‘the enthusiasm and energy of the dancers is unparalleled in this galaxy or any other’, you know you are in for a treat.
The Empire Strips Back: A Burlesque Parody – Leeds
12 February 2026 19:30 + more dates