Welcoming Franki Markstone Back for an Encore! Encore! at VTBF2026

“She’s Only Kind of an Asshole.”

The Vermont Burlesque Festival is thrilled to announce that the one and only Franki Markstone is returning for an Encore! Encore! appearance as the official emcee of VTBF2026: The Granite City Showcase on January 23rd, 2026 at the historic Barre Opera House.

If you’ve ever seen Franki in action, you already know: She’s bold. She’s hilarious. She’s brilliantly unpredictable. And yes — as Franki herself loves to remind us — she’s only kind of an asshole. Just a little bit. And honestly, that’s part of her undeniable charm.

The Perfect Emcee for an Encore Year

This year’s festival is a true Encore! Encore! — a return to the stage, a sharpened focus, and a celebration of what makes VTBF shine. We’ve tightened the format, elevated the spotlight, and poured our energy into making this night as impactful as possible. And when we needed someone to help lead this refined experience — someone who could deliver big laughs, heartfelt connection, and unexpected moments — it was clear who deserved their own encore: Franki Markstone.

A Voice Made for the Encore

Franki’s presence is a show within the show. She can hype a crowd, comfort a nervous performer, and roast an audience member (lovingly… mostly) all in a single breath.

She’s the perfect embodiment of everything Encore! Encore! stands for:

• Bringing back what we love

• Elevating what matters

• Delivering something unforgettable, one more time

Her comedic chaos and warm authenticity make her an essential part of our VTBF story — and this year, she steps into that role more fully than ever.

A Familiar Face With Fresh Mischief

Franki has been part of some of VTBF’s most iconic moments. This year, she returns not just as an emcee, but as an anchor — the connective thread guiding our performers, our audience, and our Encore! Encore! spirit from the first spotlight to the final curtain.

Get Ready for a Granite City Showcase Like No Other

On January 23rd, Franki will be your ringleader, hype-maker, chaos conductor, emotional support gremlin, and comedic compass. She’ll help shape the entire night — a celebration of creativity, community, and the expressive weirdness that makes VTBF what it is.

In Her Own Words…

“I’m not a complete asshole. I’m only kind of an asshole. Just a little bit of one.”

And truly — what better energy could we ask for in an Encore! Encore! year?

Join Us for VTBF2026

Tickets for the Granite City Showcase are on sale now. With Franki Markstone leading the festivities, we’re gearing up for a night of sparkle, laughter, surprises, and a beautifully curated VTBF Encore experience.

Welcome back, Franki.We couldn’t imagine this encore without you.