Ivan Kane's Forty Deuce

Following its opening in 2002, the burlesque show known as Ivan Kane's Forty Deuce received rave reviews in the national press as well as in Hollywood. Some called it, "The original burlesque show to which all others must be compared." Much of the credit for its success went to Kane's partner and wife, Champagne Suzy, who almost single-handedly brought the mystique of pre-pole dancing striptease into the 21st century. For several years, Kane operated a club at the Mandalay Bay Resort in Las Vegas as well as on L.A.'s Melrose Avenue.

Then, in March 2008, the Melrose venue closed somewhat unexpectedly. Local fans were dismayed and clung to rumors of a reopening in downtown Los Angeles a prediction which has recently come true with the opening of Ivan Kane's new bohemian bistro, bar and live music venue called "Café Was." This is now the only place to see Forty Deuce, which is performed every Friday night to standing-room-only crowds.

Apart from its vintage naughtiness and pulsating modern music, Forty Deuce has been popular because of the glitterati who have been known to show up unannounced. Past celebrity show-goers have included Brad Pitt, George Clooney, Leonardo DiCaprio, Nicole Kidman, and Paris Hilton, to name a few. The new address is 1521 North Vine Street, Hollywood, California 90028, just north of Sunset. Seating is limited, and reservations are recommended.