A burlesque club in Shanghai sounds like an outlandish enough idea, let alone the said club is located on a dodgy street in Hongkou District, where quality venues for nighttime entertainment are far and between. But for all your snobbish French Concessioners out there, Chinatown is definitely worth the trip with its seductive concept, spectacular shows and great service.

Housed in a Buddhist temple built in 1930’s, the three-floor Chinatown boasts a retro style interior full of sophistication and charm. The design is said to be done by one of the owners Norman Gosney, a cheerful and charismatic gentleman who successfully operated a number of clubs in New York and London in the past 25 years, including The Slipper Room and The Blushing Diamond Revue. (His lovely dancer wife, Amelia Kallman, is also an owner and the entertainment consultant here.)

If you want the best interaction with the performers, the chairs and the sofas facing the center stage on the first floor are your best choice. This is also where the main bar is, overseen by the experienced bar manager George Nemec. But for the Champagne-sipping and cigar-puffing crowd who want a bit more privacy, one of the seven balcony suites on the second floor is a must. The top-floor observatory bar is even more exclusive: you can only get in with the permission of the managers.

Combining burlesque, Moulin Rouge, classic Vegas and even some Chinese acrobatics, the show is assured to keep you entertained till the curtain falls. The highlights include the fascinating jazz fusion numbers by American lounge singer Frank Bray, a short musical play about ‘Shanghai Lil’ and of course, Chinatown Dolls kicking up their legs a la Moulin Rouge. There is also a competition for the best dressed male and female guest, so ladies and gentlemen, make sure you dress to impress.

Chinatown opens to the public from Wednesday to Saturday. Reservation is strongly advised. It is available for special event bookings for the rest of the week, such as private parties and concerts. – Stella Shu