'Orchid' a captivating pleasure in Miami

With the swirl of holiday parties beckoning, it's easy to overlook "Orchid," but this would a shame because this is a 'pleasure garden' worth visiting during December.

"Orchid" is tucked away in the Design District. Within the stained glass and mirrored walls of a vintage tent, a story unfolds. It tells of a master gardener (played by baritone Richard E. Watts), who lovingly tends his blooms (a bevy of captivating showgirls), especially his favorite, the beautiful Orchid (nicely voiced by Lexy Romano). That is, until the arrival of an evil beekeeper (Patrick Ortiz) and his bees swarm into the garden and all over Orchid. Thus deflowered, she is cast out, and evil is unleashed.

The plot is a simple one (think "Garden of Eden") but it enables the cast of very talented performers to sing and prance around the stage, performing burlesque (think fan dancing and stripping) circus acts (think acrobats and fire-eating) and sometimes a blend, as one stripper sets her twirling pasties ablaze.

In addition to the scantily clad, long-legged female "flowers," there's also more than a touch of Chippendales, with plenty of glistening, mostly naked male bodies to ogle as well. (A special nod to the male stripper who peels off his Brooks Brothers-type suit - a nifty nod to Christian Grey perhaps?)

This pop-up cabaret also houses a pop-up restaurant with a menu created by local food celebrity Michelle Bernstein. Dining is available before or after the show.

Like its perishable blossoms, "Orchid" won't be around long. This is a limited run and so, between your holiday shopping and parties, pay a visit to the Master Gardener before this pleasure garden disappears.

More info: Orchid