Love ‘Star Wars’? Check out this burlesque parody in Phoenix

"The Empire Strips Back" is a burlesque parody playing in Phoenix through Oct. 19. (Jessica Swarner/The Copper Courier)

By Jessica Swarner

October 17, 2025

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I saw a really fun show last week that I’m still thinking about this week.

It’s called “The Empire Strips Back”, and it’s a burlesque parody of “Star Wars.” You can expect to see things like a Landspeeder car wash, R2-D2 making it rain, and a rapping Jabba the Hutt.

I was blown away by every element of the show—the set design, the costumes, the talent, the music selection—and I’ve never even seen “Star Wars”! I probably missed a lot of references, but even without that background, I thought the show was hilarious and a joy to watch.

The show, which has sold over half a million tickets around the world, is running at the Herberger Theater in downtown Phoenix through Oct. 19. Tickets start at $39, and attendees must be 18 or older.

If you miss out, it’s also playing in Las Vegas through at least May of next year. I’d say it’s worth the relatively short trip, especially if you’re a big “Star Wars” fan.

You can find images from the show on “The Empire Strips Back” Instagram.

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Author

Jessica Swarner

Jessica Swarner is The Copper Courier’s newsletter editor. She is an Arizona State University alumna and previously worked at KTAR News 92.3 FM in Phoenix.

Have a story tip? Reach Jessica at [email protected]. For local reporting in Arizona that connects the dots, from policy to people, sign up for The Copper Courier's daily newsletter. For Phoenix housing news, renter-friendly design inspo, and real talk about renting, sign up for Rent Check PHX.

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