Have you ever walked down 6th Street in Austin? You probably have. It’s a vibrant place, full of energy and life, with a little bit of everything for everyone. But tucked away amongst the honky-tonks and trendy restaurants, there’s a hidden treasure. And it’s been there right under your nose, entertaining audiences of all ages for over 40 years. That’s right, it’s Esther’s Follies.
Esther’s Follies is a modern-day vaudeville theater that’s a true Austin institution. Founded in 1977, the group was named after the famous actress Esther Williams. You might be wondering why they chose that name. Well, the story goes that the founders were brainstorming ideas and someone jokingly suggested Esther Williams because she was so glamorous. Everyone loved the idea, and it’s stuck ever since.
But Esther’s Follies is so much more than just a name. It’s a melting pot of everything that makes Austin unique: satire, comedy, magic, juggling, singing, dancing, and even sketches on current events. The show is fast-paced and funny, it’s full of witty jokes and clever observations about life, politics, and everything in between. The acts are often inspired by current events, and they keep the audience engaged and laughing even after the show is over.
It’s not just the humor that defines Esther’s Follies, though. They also put on a great show. They have a fantastic cast of talented actors, musicians, and dancers. Their performances are polished and professional but there’s also a sense of spontaneity and fun to everything they do. They’re not afraid to make fun of themselves, and they certainly aren’t afraid to make fun of others, including politicians and celebrities.
One of the things that makes Esther’s Follies so special is that it’s a community. It’s a place where people can come together to laugh, relate to each other, and enjoy a night out. There’s a real sense of camaraderie amongst the audience, and it’s a feeling that’s hard to find anywhere else. And if you’re lucky, you might even see one of the founders, Michael Shelton, and Shannon Sedwick, make an appearance during the show.
So the next time you’re in Austin, make sure you check out Esther’s Follies. You won’t regret it. You’ll not only enjoy a night of hilarious entertainment but also gain a unique understanding of Austin’s culture.