Welcome to PHAB NS
PHAB NS (The Society for Preserving the History & Art of Burlesque in Nova Scotia) is a volunteer-run organization led by experienced neo-burlesque performers with backgrounds in performance, production, and mentorship.

Our organization focuses on documenting and preserving the history of burlesque in the region, including its role in local entertainment and nightlife. PHAB NS conducts research, collects archival materials, and develops resources for public access and educational use.

Visitors are invited to explore the materials, learn about the history of burlesque in Nova Scotia, and engage with the ongoing work of the project.
2026 Atlantic Burlesque Festival 
​The Society for Preserving the History & Art of Burlesque in Nova Scotia (PHAB NS) will be at the Atlantic Burlesque Festival on May 29-30, 2026, at the Neptune Theatre (1593 Argyle Street, Halifax).

Stop by to learn about the hidden history of burlesque in Nova Scotia, explore vintage photos and rare archives, and discover how PHAB NS is preserving the stories of performers past and present. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the scene, we’d love to connect! For more details about the festival, visit atlanticburlesquefestival.ca
Calling all burlesque performers!
If you’ve ever performed in Nova Scotia - whether you're local, touring, retired, or still shaking it - we want to hear from you!
We're collecting performer records as part of a project with PHAB NS (the Society for Preserving the History & Art of Burlesque in Nova Scotia). We're building an archive to make sure our stories aren't lost and to celebrate the wild, weird, and wonderful history of burlesque in this province.

If you've hit a Nova Scotia stage at any point, please take a few minutes to fill out this form. You can share as much or as little as you like. There's space to upload photos, tell stories, and make sure your name is part of the record. Fill out the performer record form here ​
Want to learn more about burlesque?  We have a recommended reading and watch list. Check out our "Learn More Section" which includes a list of books, videos, and other resources to help you learn more about the fascinating history of burlesque. ​
Land Acknowledgement 
PHAB NS acknowledges that the work we undertake takes place on Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq people. These lands hold histories and knowledge systems that extend beyond colonial records, including those maintained through language, oral tradition, and cultural practice. As we document and preserve the history of theatre in this region, we do so with recognition of the longstanding presence and contributions of Mi’kmaq communities. We recognize the importance of listening to and respecting Indigenous knowledge, and of acknowledging the broader historical context in which this work takes place.