This May, we welcome you back to Somerhaus Event Space for “Paper Lanterns: Dragon Fire”, a sensual Spring burlesque and aerial variety show celebrating the Spring awakening and Asian American Heritage Month! A sexy, sensual, and empowering experience, Paper Lanterns features a beautiful blend of artists representing favorites from our main cast while celebrating Asian-American artists and their contributions to the art forms that we love. Paper lanterns were chosen as a symbol of Spring and as a reflection of the fact that so many cultures have their own unique styles of lanterns that all reflect different cultural meanings while still representing light and awareness. And this year’s special theme, “Dragon Fire”, celebrates the Year of the Dragon and the mystique and romance that the lore of the dragon evokes in all of us. Dragons are represented in the myths, legends, artwork, and spirituality of many cultures across Asia. As symbols of rebirth, destruction, inspiration, and protection, dragons breathe fire into the imaginations and passions of those who dare to dream and illuminate the work of the incredible artists of Paper Lanterns!

And now for the stars of our show!

FUNKe Presents proudly welcomes two guest headlining artists to Paper Lanterns – Dragon Fire. The hypnotic DAWN XIANA MOON and the awe-inspiring MICHAEL “OROKI” DANG will be joined by an incredible ensemble cast to bring you an unforgettable night of breathtaking performances.

Dawn Xiana Moon, a Singaporean by birth, joins us from the Windy City for her Queen City debut! An incomparable artist who graces stages and television sets with her singularly expressive gifts will be showcasing her passions for belly dancing and fire performance each night of Paper Lanterns – Dragon Fire. For more information on Dawn, please visit dawnxianamoon.com

Michael “Oroki” Dang, a powerful, thought-provoking artist hailing from Seattle, Washington, combines his love of “engaging, unorthodox, and unique movement styles” with his multidisciplinary approach to his craft to create mesmerizing aerial performances that leave viewers spellbound. Taking to the air in the conservatory-like Somerhaus space, Oroki will elevate the senses with his interpretive prowess. For more information on Oroki, please visit orokiproductions.com.

Joining Dawn and Oroki on the Paper Lanterns stage are Madame Mira, Mirage, and a collection of other artists bringing you an illuminated Spring Night inside the beautiful Somerhaus Event Space in the heart of the Over-the-Rhine entertainment district.

The Food!

What party is complete without food!? Michael Villareal and Gabriela: Filipina Kantina will be offering an inspired, mouth-watering selection of delicious dishes to engage the senses. With a focus on fresh ingredients, time-honored traditions, and contemporary interpretations, Gabriela: Filipina Kantina has seen its guests return time and again to its restaurant at Factory 52. Their presence at Paper Lanterns – Dragon Fire is a unique opportunity to witness the way that inspiration and creativity can manifest through the works of the performing artists and the hands of culinary masters.

The Details!

Your night will begin with a cocktail party in the seasonally transformed Somerhaus event space. Then, take your seats for a fully immersive experience where each guest is but an arm’s length from the action. During intermission, explore the space, fill up on some tasty food, grab a refill of your favorite cocktail, and sit back down for a climactic second act that will bring a smile to your face.

We have several different ticket options allowing you to curate your own personal experience just for you and your guests. If you wish to take your experience to the next level with a party of your family and friends, consider booking one of the Select Reserved Private Lounge Areas.

So, leave all of the planning to us. Just bring yourself, your special someone, or your friends, and those dollar bills to tip the incredible performers and your favorite bartenders, and enjoy a classically sexy Spring event unlike any other!

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook @funkepresents for more details and news about Paper Lanterns and our other upcoming events!