Pull back the red velvet curtain and slip into the salon. The sound of ice tinkling in a vodka tonic mingles with hushed gossip and laughter. Candles flicker on the tables. Recline on a well-worn damask chaise lounge and order another drink. Comfy? Good. The show is about to begin.

You’ll find writers, short films, go-go dancers, musicians, burlesque, comics, trivia contests, hula dancers, and any other art form that hasn’t been banned by New York City authorities.