Sassy and empowering, Rama Rau’s League of Exotique Dancers offers both front-row seats and a backstage pass to Legends of Burlesque, an annual extravaganza hosted by Las Vegas’ Burlesque Hall of Fame. We’re introduced to veterans like Gina Bon Bon, Camille 2000 and Marinka, Queen of the Amazons, all of them in their 60s or 70s, preparing to present their vintage vamps from the pre-pole-dancing era.

Rau’s subjects speak eloquently about the art of the tease, as well as the pitfalls of the trade, such as substance abuse. The dominant feeling League leaves you with is one of women wresting control of their sexuality and careers, and thriving on the liberation of performance.