Freak Chic: A Southern Playas’ Burlesque

Freak Chic is an artistic tribute to the golden age of Black Southern culture—the untamed joy and radical freedom of Freaknik & Kappa Beach Party. Through burlesque, music, movement, and spectacle, we honor the beauty, the chaos, the glam, and the gritty truth of what it meant to be young, Black, free—and unfiltered.

This two-night variety show is a love letter to liberation. From candy-painted car culture to bass-thumping block parties, Freak Chic celebrates the spirit that shaped a generation and continues to move us today. Our cast of powerhouse performers will take you on a ride through the South, weaving striptease, pole, poetry, and pure energy into a cultural experience that lives at the intersection of joy, resistance, and southern swagger.

But the show doesn’t stop at the stage.

What to Expect:

• Local vendors serving up fashion, art, and goods

• Food trucks to keep you fueled all night

• A Best Dressed Contest — come to win and show out

• Raffles and giveaways with prizes to keep the vibe lit

• A fully stocked bar and plenty of ones to tip your favorite performers

• A Saturday afterparty featuring a special guest or two.

Dress Code: Show up and show out. Come dressed in: • 90s Freaknik fits • Rep your HBCU pride or Greek letters • Southern summer glam • Gold grills, airbrushed tees & Texas-sized style.

🎟️ Limited VIP sections available – grab your tickets before they’re gone! Must be 21+ to attend.

From the music that raised us to the movement that reclaims us, this show is a full-body celebration of Black culture in motion.

As Killer Mike said: “Come to have fun and fuck around and [find] freedom.”

Follow @Shea.Butter.Babies.Productions on Instagram to see who’ll be in the building!

This project is supported in part by the City of Austin Economic Development Department (@cityofaustinarts), Danzversity (@Danzversity), Amazing Aeffects (@amazingaeffects), & Clear the Air (@Cleartheair.Atx). This is a sponsored project of Austin Creative Alliance (@austincreativea).

Sponsorship & Vendor Opportunities are Available; email Kitty at aGVsbG8gfCBpbGx1bWluZXdlbGxuZXNzbGxjICEgY29t.

Info: Doors open early for a full hour of bold vibes, Southern swagger, and sultry ambiance. Grab a drink, strike a pose, shop our merch, and vibe to the sounds of 90s Freaknik nostalgia. Come early to mix, mingle, and set the tone—because the tease starts long before the lights go down.

Info: The lights go down, the bass drops, and the stage ignites! From the first beat to the final bow, FREAK CHIC delivers a jaw-dropping celebration of Southern Black culture, sensuality, and showmanship. Expect electrifying burlesque, live performances, and surprises that honor the spirit of Freaknik with a Texas twist. You’ve never seen a variety show like this—get ready to be moved, teased, and transformed.

Also check out other Arts events in Austin, Entertainment events in Austin, Performances in Austin.