Burlesque Shows are Back at Franky Bradley’s Plus a 9 Week Performance Competition!

Franky Bradley’s, Mark Bee’s effervescent funk- and kitsch-filled nostalgic restaurant and bar in the heart of Center City’s Midtown Village, is relaunching in-person live shows at the iconic venue. The rebirth of its cabaret space begins on Thursday, July 1 with Hope Strips Eternal, an elaborate burlesque show including a raffle, prizes, and drink specials and continues the festivities with Snatcherella 3000, a nine-week performance competition, ongoing throughout late summer.

After a brief hiatus due to pandemic restrictions, Franky Bradley’s is back in business with Hope Strips Eternal, the rebirth of the famed cabaret space, presented by Count Scotchula. Hosted by Sophie Sucre and Flirt Vonnegut, the burlesque show features an opening set from Glitter and Garbage and additional performances by Philadelphia-based Drag Queens and Kings such as Hannibal Licker, Foxworth Vorn, and Jaeda Mei. Attendees are in-store for an evening of fun and funky entertainment, raffles, prizes, and specials on craft cocktails, local brew, and wine. Doors open at 7pm, and the show starts promptly at 7:30pm. Tickets are $15, and can be purchased here.

“Our doors are finally open, and we’re celebrating the way we know how… with burlesque and drag shows!” said Dave Morreale, Venue Director of Franky Bradley’s. “We’re thrilled to welcome guests back into our venue for fun-filled late nights with extravagant entertainment for a summer to remember.”

Following the return of cabaret, comes the launch of Franky Bradley’s Snatcherella 3000 beginning Wednesday, July 21 at 8pm. The nine-week performance competition features a slew of famed performers from the Philadelphia-area and beyond, competing every Wednesday for the Snatcherella title with a cash prize of $500, the sought-after crown, a laundry list of bookings, and some arranged flowers. The esteemed panel of judges [also acting as event hosts] are comprised of Philly’s hottest names in the LGBTQA+ entertainment community such as Eric Jaffe, Icon Ebony Fierce, Pi, Vinchelle, and The Moon Baby. Each week, Snatcherella will feature a guest judge, plus special pop-ups, surprises, twists and turns along the way.

Franky Bradley’s current hours of operation are Wednesday through Saturday from 5pm – 2am. Look for expanded hours in the months ahead.