Final curtain call for Gypsy Layne

After nearly 16 years of glitter, grit, and fearless creativity, Gypsy Layne Cabaret & Co. will present its final performances at Bennington Theater, 331 Main Street, on Valentine’s Day weekend, February 13 and 14, 7:30 pm, marking the end of an era for the region’s burlesque and cabaret community.

Founded in 2010 by Nicole Rizzo, Gypsy Layne began as a grassroots, speakeasy-style production above the Red Herring in Williamstown, MA, built with a handmade stage, borrowed lights, and vinyl records. What started as a risky local experiment grew into a celebrated regional troupe, helping establish burlesque as an inclusive, theatrical performance form throughout Berkshire County and beyond.

Over the years, Gypsy Layne became known for its inventive blend of classic burlesque tease with comedy, magic, dance, and character-driven storytelling. Signature acts have ranged from sword-dancing and snake-charming displays to comedic sketches and genre-bending routines that emphasize humor and suggestion as much as spectacle.

The Valentine’s Day weekend performances mark the final shows ever for the troupe and will feature a specially curated “greatest hits” program, a retrospective celebrating the acts that have delighted audiences across New England for nearly two decades.

Central to Gypsy Layne’s mission has always been inclusivity and empowerment. Inspired by Rizzo’s early exposure to burlesque in Los Angeles, the troupe embraced the art form as one for all bodies, welcoming performers of all sizes, genders, and identities.

While Gypsy Layne as a troupe is taking its final bow, its performers will continue working independently throughout the region, carrying the spirit of the company into new projects and guest appearances.

The Bennington Theater performances serve as a final love letter: a celebration of love, glitter, and gratitude for the audiences who made every shimmy, strut, and sparkle worthwhile.

For tickets or more information go to benningtontheater.org.