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Behind the Curtains

Vision Statement for The Darling Clementines:

The Darling Clementines is not just a performance troupe; we are a vibrant tapestry of art, advocacy, and community. As a queer burlesque and drag troupe, our essence lies in uplifting and celebrating the talents of queer and marginalized performers, creating a kaleidoscope of diversity and excellence on stage. Our mission is twofold: to be a beacon of excellence in the world of burlesque and drag, and to provide a nurturing platform for artists at every stage of their journey.

Our flagship show at Harlow's represents the pinnacle of performance art, a space where the most seasoned artists come together to showcase their mastery. It stands as a beacon of aspiration, inspiring performers across the industry to aim for the zenith of their craft. Yet, our heart lies in inclusivity and accessibility, embodied by our Fresh Squeezed show. Here, we dismantle the barriers of gatekeeping, welcoming performers from all spectrums of experience to share their love for burlesque. This show is a melting pot of creativity, where seasoned artists and newcomers alike can learn, grow, and revel in their artistry.

The Darling Clementines is a troupe predominantly composed of POC and all queer performers, reflecting the rich tapestry of our community. Our commitment goes beyond the stage; we are dedicated to impacting our community positively and tangibly. Collaborating with community health workers, we provide resources such as Narcan and information about fentanyl at our shows, addressing pressing health concerns. We champion important social causes, using our platform to highlight the need for the decriminalization of sex work, advocating for dignity and safety in all professions.

Moreover, our shows are a celebration of local queer talent and entrepreneurship. We proudly feature local queer vendors and makers, transforming our events into a thriving marketplace of creativity and community support. This not only fosters a sense of unity but also propels the local queer economy, providing a nurturing environment for artists and entrepreneurs to flourish.

At The Darling Clementines, we envision a world where the stage is a reflection of the society we aspire to create: diverse, inclusive, and supportive. A world where art is not just a form of entertainment but a powerful tool for social change, community building, and personal empowerment. Through our performances, community work, and advocacy, we strive to be more than a troupe; we aim to be a movement, a catalyst for positive change in our society.

Our Story

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Celebrating a decade of dazzling performances, The Darling Clementines have become an iconic part of Sacramento's performing arts scene. For 10 years, our burlesque and drag show has illuminated countless stages across Sacramento and the surrounding regions, showcasing not just performances, but a movement of queer joy, art, expression, and community.

From our humble beginnings to becoming a hallmark of burlesque and drag excellence, The Darling Clementines have always stood for more than just entertainment. Each performance is a tapestry of storytelling, creativity, and empowerment. We represent the pulsating heart of queer joy, bringing to life stories that resonate with, represent, and uplift our diverse audiences.

Our journey over the past decade has been one of passion, resilience, and celebration. We have touched stages big and small, always leaving an indelible mark of our commitment to excellence in performance. Our shows are more than just a spectacle; they are a vibrant showcase of talent, a space where queer artistry and expression are not just seen but celebrated and revered.

The Darling Clementines stand as a beacon in the Sacramento art scene, embodying the very essence of what it means to be a community. We are not just performers; we are advocates, storytellers, and dreamers. Our shows are a haven for the marginalized, a platform for the underrepresented, and a celebration of the beauty in diversity.

As we reflect on our 10-year legacy, we are filled with gratitude for the stages we've graced, the community that has supported us, and the countless performers who have shared their talents and stories with us. Looking forward, The Darling Clementines remain committed to our mission of fostering queer joy, art, expression, and community through our unparalleled burlesque and drag performances.

Join us as we continue to write our story, one performance at a time.

Meet The Clementines

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