Little Miss Nasty are an American performance art collective combining rock- and metal-influenced burlesque with theatrical dance, acrobatics and aerial performance. The collective was founded in Los Angeles in 2012 by dancer and choreographer Gina Katon. It originally began as a single-act performance developed at the Viper Room in Hollywood before expanding into a larger collective of performers and a full-length stage production.
During the mid-2010s, Little Miss Nasty established recurring performances in Los Angeles and Santa Monica before expanding into national touring and long-running residencies, particularly in Las Vegas. Their performances are known for their high energy and combination of burlesque with rock and metal aesthetics. Choreographed stage productions incorporate dance, acrobatics and aerial elements, bringing together the visual and physical dimensions of performance with a strong musical identity.
Beginning in 2017, Little Miss Nasty expanded into large-scale concert touring, performing alongside metal and industrial acts including In This Moment and Lords of Acid. At the same time, the collective developed a close relationship with LGBTQ+ nightlife and events, particularly within lesbian and queer spaces. They have performed at venues and Pride-related events across the United States, while members of the collective have described their work as emphasizing inclusivity and freedom of expression.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Little Miss Nasty expanded its activities into recorded music. The collective released its debut single, “Hungry”, in 2020, followed by additional releases developed during a period when live performances were reduced. This musical work eventually led to their debut studio album, Weapon of Choice, released in 2024. The album combines elements of rock and metal with electronic and hip-hop influences, extending the collective’s performance-based aesthetic into recorded music.
In addition to stage performances and music releases, Little Miss Nasty operates an online dance education program called School of Nasty. The program expanded during the pandemic to include virtual dance classes and interactive events, allowing the collective to continue its educational activities beyond live venues.
Little Miss Nasty therefore operates across several forms of contemporary performance, combining burlesque, dance, performance art and music. Their work is built around choreographed physical performance, acrobatics, aerial elements and rock-oriented aesthetics, while their activities in LGBTQ+ nightlife and Pride events have made inclusivity and freedom of expression important parts of their public identity. Through stage productions, touring, recorded music and online education, the collective has developed a distinctive format that connects live entertainment with dance and music.
