UPTOWN — Sixteen local bartenders will put their vulnerabilities — and their clothes — aside to compete in a monthlong competition to choose "Chicago's Sexiest Bartender."
This year's Barlesque, an annual online competition featuring boudoir-style photographs of the bartenders, will feature male and female bartenders from Big Chicks, Crew Bar & Grill, Replay Andersonville and Uptown Underground among other Chicago bars. This year's theme is fairy tale and fantasy, and photographer KJ Heath says this year's participants will be exposing more than just skin.
"Being photographed brings out a certain vulnerability in the contestants," Heath said, adding that they "definitely have some very wonderful surprises in store."
Barlesque, which benefits Test Positive Aware Network, "combines the naughtiness of burlesque and the generosity of Chicago's philanthropic community."
All money raised through the competition will go directly toward Test Positive Aware Network's HIV/AIDS services. Last year, the event raised more than $72,000, according to a news release.
The competition, which runs from Nov. 5-22, allows donors to give money online or at in-person events to support the bartender of their choice. As donors give more money, a more revealing photo will be unveiled, the release said.
Amee Binder, of Lincoln Square, felt she was called to represent her employer in the competition, considering her connection to Uptown Underground as a bartender and as choreographer for their burlesque shows.
While each photo is a little "saucier" the competition is still "classy," said Binder. "It's very similar to [a burlesque] stage performance."
The competition kicks off at 7 p.m. Thursday with a party at Uptown Underground, 4707 N. Broadway, featuring the 16 local bartenders and performances by the Kiss Kiss Coquettes and Chicago Magic Lounge.
Cover for the event is $25, which is donated to the Test Positive Aware Network, and the purchaser will get a $25 credit to donate to the participant of their choosing.
"Hosting the opening night is particularly special, as we are the only venue in Chicago dedicated to the production of the burlesque arts," said Jenn Kincaid, owner of Uptown Underground.
"Being able to assist and reach such a vital part of our community is also super exciting. Burlesque has been getting a lot of buzz lately and we hope to be able to show everyone a little of our own Chicago shimmy."
Other participants are representing the following establishments: Charlie's Chicago, DS Tequila, Hydrate, Jackhammer, Minibar, Naughty Little Cabaret, Progress Bar, Replay Lakeview, Shaker's on Clark, Sidetrack, The Den and Touché.
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