Next up, Vancouver vixen, Burgundy Brixx…

Burgundy Brixx ©Shimona Henry

If I looked you up in a twinkling, rhinestone covered burlesque dictionary, what would the entry for ‘Burgundy Brixx’ say?

A born entertainer who uses her innovative mind, performance training and sense of whimsy to create unexpected burlesque magic. Works tirelessly to create sustainability for the art form of burlesque through producing, educating and performing.

Paint us a little picture of your everyday life and work in Vancouver…

I’m fortunate to be able to do what I love each and every day. Producing a weekly show is extremely time consuming, but it’s now my official job and for that I’m proud and grateful. My week’s work consists of booking my future performers, designing my weekly fliers, gathering information from my performers of the week, promoting the event(s) and seeking out new promotional angles and sponsorship opportunities. Since I perform in my show each week, I’m also constantly working on new numbers, perfecting old ones, rehearsing and creating costumes and props. I feel an obligation to both my fans and to the burlesque community at large to try to be excellent whenever and wherever I perform. There’s always someone in the audience seeing a burlesque show for the first time, and my goal is to seduce and delight and educate that person so that they’ll want to attend more burlesque shows in the future. I also teach classes to introduce women to the art and tradition of burlesque, as well as ballet for grace and style at the beautiful studio I opened with two of my colleagues – The Vancouver Burlesque Centre. Although it’s all extremely demanding and I rarely (if ever!) have a day off, I consider myself to be blessed for the opportunity to live and sustain myself by means of my own creativity and art.

What would you say is your greatest strength?

Patience.

What has been the highlight or defining moment of your career to date, and also in your life overall?

A few years ago I met a former burlesque artist living in Nelson, British Columbia named Judith Stein. Not knowing anything about her except what I heard from a few of the other Legends at BHoF in 2009, I asked the other board members of the Vancouver International Burlesque Festival if we could invite her to perform in our festival in 2010. Ms. Stein took the stage and grabbed hold, literally stopping the show. I was asked to introduce her onstage, so I was watching from the wings. I will never forget the thrill I felt in my heart when she turned upstage near the end of her number, head thrown back, beaming, joy pouring from her entire gorgeous body; the fact that I was a small part of making that moment happen was the most magical moment of my career to date. Right then I set my sights on trying to help Judith get to perform in Las Vegas at BHoF for Legends Night (in her long career, she had never got to play Vegas!) and although my Canadian immigration issues prevented me from seeing her hit the stage last year, the phone call I received from her right after she rocked the house was one of the most gratifying and magical moments I have ever experienced.

Can you tell me a bit about your chosen act? Why have you chosen it, is it an old trusted act, or a new routine? Have you made any special changes or ‘upgrades’ to it for BHoF?

This act is one I debuted exactly one year ago at the Vancouver International Burlesque Festival in a show with a live R&B band, but it’s to a piece of music I’ve been planning on doing a number to since I first set foot on a burlesque stage, so it’s extremely gratifying to have my long-standing fantasy become a reality in so many ways. I designed and created every single piece of the costume myself, which I’m extremely proud of. Costuming is a huge part of my process, since I studied it fervently in college along with theatre arts. When I’m really proud of my costume, it adds profoundly to my excitement to perform. It’s a number I absolutely LOVE performing on every level, and I think the audience has a great time too. It’s just me – no props. There are some slight upgrades to the costume (of course!) and to the opening sequence, but otherwise it’s a solid number that I’m just thrilled to share with my burlesque peers on the big BHoF stage!

“…there really is so much value in healthy competition. It challenges us all to challenge ourselves to reach into the depths of our souls to create the best possible art and audience experience that we can, without settling for the comfort of mediocrity. Art will always be relative, but excellence is appreciated by all!”

Is competing something you enjoy, or that pushes or encourages you to excel?

I’ve had a hard time coming to terms with the concept of competition in the past, but this past year I’ve been able to look beyond my personal fears and inhibitions (we all have ‘em!) and into the broader scope of the idea to find that there really is so much value in healthy competition. It challenges us all to challenge ourselves to reach into the depths of our souls to create the best possible art and audience experience that we can, without settling for the comfort of mediocrity. Art will always be relative, but excellence is appreciated by all!

Why is BHoF special and important to you? What are some of your favourite memories from past years?

My first year attending BHoF was entirely overwhelming. The Thursday night showcase blew me away and I couldn’t imagine that there could be three more nights of world-class, innovative entertainment to follow! That Friday night was my very first experience witnessing Legends of Burlesque perform. You will NEVER forget your first time. It’s a life changing, invigorating, emotionally draining experience; the rest of the weekend I was teary-eyed, exhausted from applauding, and walking around like a zombie in a crazy cloud of love. The joy of the weekend, that spirit of family that Jennie Lee brought to her peers is so important for us all to take back to our individual communities. Equally important is the fund-raising mission of the weekend in support of the museum and it’s work; building awareness of our history and working to both retain our fading past while sustaining a vibrant future for all of us.

How would you spend your year as Queen – do you have any specific plans or goals if you win?

The Sustainability of Burlesque – it’s always my goal and the underlying project within all of my work. I believe there is room within the art form we define as Burlesque for a vast array of styles and flavours, as well as amazing future innovations not yet presented. But we all have a responsibility if we want to sustain our world. Understanding and respecting the past is the way we create the future. We call ourselves a community, but are we truly acting like one? If we draw on each other’s strengths, the richness of our history (both written and unwritten) and leave room for diversity, there will be a day when the umbrella of burlesque is so great that we all can work, live and love under it, side by side.

What are your dreams and hopes for burlesque in the future, and yourself as a part of it?

My goal is to see burlesque legitimately recognised as its own individual art form. Dance. Theatre. Music. Burlesque. While burlesque uses aspects of dance, music, and theatre, it cannot be categorised within any one of them. Once burlesque is recognised as its own entity, all the myriad styles and forms within our world will be able to blossom and take shape, and there WILL be room for everyone. It may not happen in my lifetime, but I’m never going to stop crusading for that goal.

www.burgundybrixx.com

The Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend

Full Weekend Line-up >>>

Full competitors list >>>

Tickets >>>

Let’s hear from a burlesque force of nature, Perle Noire…

Perle Noire ©Kaylin Idora

If I looked you up in a twinkling, rhinestone covered burlesque dictionary, what would the entry for ‘Perle Noire’ say?

Perle Noire:
1. a ball of fire.
2. highly luminous explosion.
3. ruled by intense emotion or strong feeling.
4. arousing or exciting the senses
5. dancing  with exaggerated movements of the hips and shoulders.

Paint us a little picture of your everyday life and work in New York and New Orleans…

The first thing I do when I wake up is dance to the  Vanity 6 classic, Nasty Girls. Then I check my email and send out my resume and YouTube links to producers around the world. After working on the computer I sashay downstairs and pour myself a glass of water in my favorite champagne flute before I practice my routines. My workout regimen is followed by a warm milk bath. I like to sit and daydream about ???? After my bath  I check out Facebook and 21st Century Burlesque  to get an update on my friends and soon to be  lovers. If I’m in New York I put my face on and head to the train to perform or meet my girls for champagne. When I’m in New Orleans I rock out with the Bustout Burlesque crew. I love my life!

What would you say is your greatest strength?

I think my greatest strength is my ability to appreciate constructive criticism. I don’t think I’m the best performer in the world. I believe that I can always give more to the audience.

What has been the highlight or defining moment of your career to date, and also in your life overall?

I’m very fortunate. Despite my humble beginnings I managed to beat the odds and make something out of nothing. Before I was chosen by burlesque I was a full time actress and singer. However, I always dreamed of paying tribute to Josephine Baker. The most defining moment for me was when I performed my tribute to her in 2008 at BHoF. I performed that act for years previously, but I didn’t perform in front of so many of my idols and living legends. At that moment I felt liked I belonged to something special and that I was finally accepted for all that I am. I still cry when I think about it.

Can you tell me a bit about your chosen act? Why have you chosen it, is it an old trusted act, or a new routine? Have you made any special changes or ‘upgrades’ to it for BHoF?

I’m performing a new act called ‘Exotique Mystere’. This act is inspired by the African goddess Oshun. Everyone has  seen an Egyptian or Roman Goddess or Queen act but how many people pay tribute to the African gods or queens? This act is important to me because I want to change or bring awareness to people’s perception of African culture. My costume is elegant and colourful. The act has a classic and modern influence.

“This year I decided to be myself 100% … I’m crazy, wild and passionate. I learned that I can’t please everyone … And that’s okay. My approach is to stay true to myself and the stage.”

You have competed before. What has previous experience taught you – do you plan to do anything differently this year, or adopt a different approach or attitude?

This year I decided to be myself 100%. People like me because of the way I dance. I’m crazy, wild and passionate. I learned that I can’t please everyone. Even though I consider myself a classic burlesque performer, others disagree. And that’s okay. My approach is to stay true to myself and the stage.

Is competing something you enjoy, or that pushes or encourages you to excel?

I’m very competitive, but I’m always competing with myself.

Why is BHoF special and important to you? What are some of your favorite memories from past years?

The BHoF is special because the weekend brings artists, legends and press together to celebrate burlesque. This is a beautiful art form that should stay alive. I feel so lucky and honoured to meet the women who started it all. My favourite moments are the moments with the legends. I love to watch them dance and listen to their stories of glory.

How would you spend your year as Queen – do you have any specific plans or goals if you win?

I would spend my year raising money towards the museum. Sometimes I look at the old photos from Helendale and I’m so jealous. The museum looked amazing and I would love to help bring that back. The weekend is amazing, but the museum is the most important thing. We need to make sure burlesque never dies and make the museum bigger and better then ever!

What are your dreams and hopes for burlesque in the future, and yourself as a part of it?

I love burlesque because it’s one of the oldest forms of theatre. I hope that people will continue to take part and support all the burlesque festivals around the world and the BHoF museum. I hope to see bigger and more glamorous shows around the world. My personal goal is to star in a burlesque revue in Paris. The name of the show will be ‘La Baker’!

www.perlenoireburlesque.biz

The Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend

Full Weekend Line-up >>>

Full competitors list >>>

Tickets >>>

Trixie Little needs no introduction…

Trixie Little ©Leland Bobbé

If I looked you up in a twinkling, rhinestone covered burlesque dictionary, what would the entry for ‘Trixie Little’ say?

Trixie Little (American, female) diminutive acrobatic burlesque star known for her athletic physique, intelligence and for mixing sex with humour.  Helped raise the profile of neo-burlesque in popular culture. Often performs alongside her talented husband, The Evil Hate Monkey.

Paint us a little picture of your everyday life and work in New York and on tour – I trust the wedding plans are well underway…?

Let’s see, I usually wake up between 10-11am and drink coffee while checking email. By noon I usually have to run off to a class or go to rehearsal. I try to take at least two different classes at any given time to properly take advantage of the best-of-everything that NYC has to offer!  This spring I’ve been taking a screenwriting class at NYU and a ‘Contorture’ class (contortion stretching and handstands) plus I pop in to other circus, ballet or yoga classes whenever I can. Then I  typically come home around 5-6pm and make dinner and hang out with Monkey. I’ll spend some time tinkering on any costumes that need repairing/blinging while watching a movie or something. Then by 9pm I usually have to get to a  burlesque gig such as Slipper Room in Exile, Nurse Bettie or Hotel Chantelle.  Then I’ll meet up with Monkey for our late night gig at The Box around midnight.  We work there most weeks we’re home from Tuesday through Saturday. Usually we get sucked into drinking champagne and hanging out with the other performers and crew after the show, so most nights we don’t get into bed until 3-4am. I’ve definitely gotten used to sleeping less since we moved here.

And yes, wedding plans do have to be squeezed in around all this!

What would you say is your greatest strength?

Strength is my greatest strength! Inside and out I feel pretty strong!

Can you tell me a bit about your chosen act? Why have you chosen it, is it an old trusted act, or a new routine? Have you made any special changes or ‘upgrades’ to it for BHoF?

I am continuously working on a handful of ‘NYC gig acts’ that fit on tiny stages, don’t take up a lot of space and are mostly improv. These are the acts I typically chose from when I’m ready to take an act up to the next level. When they are ready  for the polishing stage, the first thing I do is take my starter costume to Garo Sparo to remake professionally. Then I start setting the choreography and moments so it’s not improv any more.  But the improv part is an awesome part of my process because I’m a character actor more than a dancer, so I get to learn what the juicy moments are this way.

The act I’m competing with, ‘Champagne Bubble’, was a NYC gig act at first, but I’ve been working on it for about two years now. It’s definitely my most classic aesthetically, but I haven’t sacrificed any personality – it’s still very me! There are some good acrobatic tricks, some funny moments, some sexy moments and a big finish. I’ve been fine-tuning some special effects that I’m excited to do on a large stage too.

“Experience has taught me that it’s truly not about winning, but about feeling you gave the BEST performance you are capable of giving … BHoF sets the gold standard of our art form. I couldn’t be more honoured to be part of it…”

You have competed before. What has previous experience taught you – do you plan to do anything differently this year, or adopt a  different approach or attitude?

Experience has taught me that it’s truly not about winning, but about feeling you gave the BEST performance you are capable of giving. I don’t feel like my past performances were the best of my ability, so I’m really happy to have the chance to try again. It’s about your personal best. My strategy this year is do something for my act every day leading up to the competition. Whether that’s beading my costume, working on a trick, watching a rehearsal video or actually performing the act  somewhere… I want to feel like I did every single thing I could have to get to my top performance level.  The only other thing I’m doing to prepare is re-watching all six seasons of Xena: Warrior Princess in order to pull out my inner champion.

Is competing something you enjoy, or that pushes or encourages you to excel?

Working at The Box and competing at BHoF are the two things that continually push me to be a better, smarter performer. It’s a priceless gift to have a reason to push yourself further. BHoF sets the gold standard of our art form. I couldn’t be more honoured to be part of it.

Why is BHoF special and important to you? What are some of your favourite memories from past years?

Every year is amazing. It’s my favorite vacation.  We’ve been going since 2005 (seven consecutive years) and each year is better than the last. It’s been fascinating to watch the organisation try to grow into a bonafide museum too. I’ve seen it go from the desert to storage to a tiny space in the Old Strip with its first paid staff person! It’s modest, but it’s progress. I’m really excited about the organisational developments BHoF has been making because I want to see us have a  Liberace-size museum of our own one day.

How would you spend your year as Queen – do you have any specific plans or goals if you win? Will you and Monkey (‘Reigning King’ 2010) become the ‘Wills and Kate’ of burlesque and plan public appearances?!

If I win, Monkey and I are immediately forming a troupe so we can apply next year and try earn trophies in every category.  And I’ll be wearing my crown to everyday too, so I’ll have to wear my veil over the crown at our wedding!

What are your dreams and hopes for burlesque in the future, and yourself as a part of it?

I really want more mainstream success for us. I think we have a niche that seems to resonate broadly; we’ve got humour, smarts, sexiness and a male/female combo – something for everyone, basically!  I’m ready to push into the homes of the general public in every form of media!

www.TrixieLittle.com

The Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend

Full Weekend Line-up >>>

Full competitors list >>>

Tickets >>>

We’re back home safe and sound! Read all about our last week on the road…

Dangerous Curves Ahead in Missoula. ©

On April 26^th we drove from Tucson, AZ to Albuquerque, NM and made a pit stop at Sparky’s Restaurant in Hatch, NM – the Chilli Capital of the World – to sample their chilli shakes and spicy lemonade. Minnie, who dedicates her life to finding the perfect chocolate shake and who cannot handle spicy foods, tried her frozen beverage and could barely keep down one slurp without coughing. In addition to the spicy peppers, our beloved minivan Al (Ray-Ray for short) had a tough time pushing through the high winds and low visibility of a dust storm as we drove into Albuquerque.

Green Chilli Mango Lemonade - HOT!

We finally made it to the Aux Dog Theatre to join forces with Holly Rebelle and Burlesque Noir. We performed with them on our first tour in the spring of 2010 and it was so fun to be back! It was a sold out audience with a very special guest, Clams Casino’s brother. Not only was it his first burlesque show, it was also the first time he’s seen her perform and he loved every minute of us!

We were up bright and early the next morning as we had another long drive to Oklahoma City, OK. Yes, you read that right: Dangerous Curves Ahead taught our signature Burlesque 101 Workshop that evening at Teaze Dance and Fitness – in the middle of the Bible Belt! We had a huge class with over twenty students and only a small handful of them had ever seen burlesque before. But they were excited and ready to get their tassels twirling! It certainly was an enjoyable and meaningful evening for all.

Teaching at Teaze Dance and Fitness in Oklahoma...

The next day on April 28^th, we made our way to Springfield, MO. Eating a square meal complete with cocktails was the name of the game and, lucky for us, Anita found a rooftop oasis at the Springfield Brewing Company.

We returned to Lindbergh’s where we performed two years ago with Baby B. Stiletto and Cherry Bomb Burlesque, and were thrilled to perform with them again and also to find that the venue was now smoke-free!

Backstage in Nashville...

It was a treat to have the next night off in Nashville, TN at The Leisureland Ranch, aka GiGi’s new abode. We ordered in Mexican food, drank wine and had a good night’s rest. On April 30^th we ate the most delicious pancakes of our life at infamous Pancake Pantry and spent the day running stripper errands, shopping for cupcake dresses, and eating Las Paletas avocado popsicles (don’t knock it until you’ve tried it!). We finally made it to our venue, Parlour & Juke, a cozy hair salon that transformed itself into our theatre for the evening. Our stage kitten was the gorgeous One Chance Fancy and the crowd was fantastic.

Having performed in Nashville twice before we had to abide by the state’s rules of covering our ‘underboob’ and at least 75% of our bottoms. Since no liquor was sold at Parlour & Juke, the rules didn’t apply, so we let all our breast and bum cleavage fly! Local burlesque performers have started banding together to form the Underboob Liberation Front, and are trying to change the laws. Good luck y’all, you’ve got our support!

Life-changing biscuits at Tupelo Honey Cafe in Asheville, NC

The next morning on May 1st, the drive to Asheville, NC was stunning. Anita Cookie, as always, scouted out an absolutely delightful restaurant, Tupelo Honey Café, where we spent hours eating their mouthwatering southern delicacies such as fried green tomatoes over cheesy grits, buttermilk biscuits, pickled okra, and lemongrass-infused moonshine. Special thanks to our waitress/our new BFF, Kenzie, who steered us in the right direction dish by dish and made sure we went home with plenty of pickled souvenirs.

We met up with our host, Queen April, to perform at The Boiler Room, which is also home to regular drag shows. We knew we felt at home for a reason! Afterwards, we all piled into Al (Ray-Ray for short) and headed up to the mountains to rest our heads. That morning, we made sure to visit the farm next door to give a big burlyQ greeting to the sheep and Mr. Ed, the horse.

Okay, girls, stop horsing around! Asheville, NC

We hit the road hard and could not wait to get to Durham, NC. Two years ago, we performed at Full Steam Brewery and had a crazy, good time with 300 of our closest friends. We could only hope we had the same turnout this time around. Good thing we kept our tassels crossed because most of those folks came back! That night was also GiGi’s birthday, and with a little help from our lovely local ladies, Virginia Scare and Rachel Riot, we celebrated with cupcakes and chilled Austrian red wine.

On the morning of May 3rd we wasted no time heading to our favorite breakfast joint, Elmo’s Diner. In 2010, this place gave us the meal of our dreams, which obviously included fresh mimosas and homemade biscuits. What makes this place even better is that we had the same waiter from the time before and he remembered us! Brett, you’re the best and we will be back! With our bellies full, we drove GiGi to the airport and said our farewells before she headed back to Nashville.

Al (Ray-Ray for short) savoring a few moments in Brooklyn with Minnie and Anita before we dropped him off and said farewell...

That night was our last show of our Spring Tour 2012. We arrived at our host, Dolli Holiday’s lovely home and had a moment of rest before we picked back up and went to Gallery 5 to teach our Burlesque 101 Workshop to a group of fun and inspiring women. We played to a supportive and rowdy crowd that included local burlesque star, Deepa De Jour and her bachelorette party! Afterwards we indulged our fast food cravings at the southern chain, Cook Out that offered over forty different flavors of milkshakes, including banana pudding and Hi-C Punch. Minnie opted for chocolate. Darlinda got mint Oreo and the rest ate delicious burgers. It was the perfect end to our tour.

A curtain call in Colorado Springs... ©Broken Glass Photography

This wraps up our fourth national tour in a mere two years! We couldn’t have done it without our gracious local burlesque hosts, our generous sponsors: Sin in Linen, Burlesque Stars (formerly Strip CHEEZ), Babeland.com, and Tattoo Ritual, and our fabulous fans! Thank you so much, we love you all!

Stay tuned for more road adventures with Dangerous Curves Ahead: Burlesque on the Go-Go!

Anita, Clams, Darlinda, GiGi, and Minnie

For more information visit

www.burlesqueonthegogo.com

There are a variety of signed and limited edition items for you to bid on – please bid generously! The time, passion, sacrifice and hard work that goes into the Burlesque Hall of Fame every year is incredible, but as a non-profit organisation in hard financial times, they need our support. I hope this auction will provide a way for people to donate to the cause, and potentially win a wonderful collectors item too.

Burlesque Hall of Fame Official Merchandise TShirt, signed by the Legends of Burlesque in attendance at the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend, 2011.

Obtained in person by 21CB editor-in-chief, Holli-Mae Johnson, who can guarantee the authenticity of all signatures.

Signed by: The late Joan Arline, ‘The Sexquire Girl’, Holiday O’Hara, April March, Toni Elling, Tiffany Carter, Val Valentine, Gina Bon Bon, Camille 2000, Viva La Fever, Kitten Nadividad, Dee Milo, and Bob ‘Rubberlegs’ Tannenbaum.

The winning bid will be donated to the BHoF Legends Challenge fund, which aims to cover travel costs to the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend 2012 for as many of our treasured legends as possible.

There is a reserve on this item, but the highest bid will be considered if the reserve is not met.

Burlesque Hall of Fame Official Merchandise TShirt, signed by six Reigning Queens of Burlesque/Miss Exotic Worlds in attendance at the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend, 2011.

Obtained in person by 21CB editor-in-chief, Holli-Mae Johnson, who can guarantee the authenticity of all signatures.

Signed by: Indigo Blue – Reigning Queen/Miss Exotic World, 2011; Roxi D’Lite – Reigning Queen/Miss Exotic World, 2010; Kalani Kokonuts – Reigning Queen/Miss Exotic World, 2009; Julie Atlas Muz – Reigning Queen/Miss Exotic World, 2006; Michelle L’amour – Reigning Queen/Miss Exotic World, 2005; Dirty Martini – Reigning Queen/Miss Exotic World, 2004.

The winning bid will be donated to support the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend 2012.

Burlesque Hall of Fame Official Merchandise Poster, signed by six Reigning Queens of Burlesque/Miss Exotic Worlds, and ‘Best Boylesque’ 2010, The Evil Hate Monkey, at the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend, 2011.

Obtained in person by 21CB editor-in-chief, Holli-Mae Johnson, who can guarantee the authenticity of all signatures.

Signed by: Indigo Blue – Reigning Queen/Miss Exotic World, 2011; The Evil Hate Monkey – ‘Best Boylesque’ 2010; Roxi D’Lite – Reigning Queen/Miss Exotic World, 2010; Kalani Kokonuts – Reigning Queen/Miss Exotic World, 2009; Julie Atlas Muz – Reigning Queen/Miss Exotic World, 2006; Michelle L’amour – Reigning Queen/Miss Exotic World, 2005; Dirty Martini – Reigning Queen/Miss Exotic World, 2004.

The winning bid will be donated to support the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend 2012.

Burlesque Hall of Fame Official Merchandise Poster, signed by the Legends of Burlesque in attendance at the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend, 2011.

Obtained in person by 21CB editor-in-chief, Holli-Mae Johnson, who can guarantee the authenticity of all signatures.

Signed by: The late Joan Arline, ‘The Sexquire Girl’, Holiday O’Hara, April March, Toni Elling, Tiffany Carter, Val Valentine, Judith Stein, Gina Bon Bon, Camille 2000, Viva La Fever, Kitten Nadividad, Dee Milo, and Bob ‘Rubberlegs’ Tannenbaum.

The winning bid will be donated to the BHoF Legends Challenge fund, which aims to cover travel costs to the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend 2012 for as many of our treasured legends as possible.

Burlesque Hall of Fame Official 2011 Programme, with centrefold signed by Reigning Queen of Burlesque 2010, Roxi D’Lite.

Obtained in person by 21CB editor-in-chief, Holli-Mae Johnson, who can guarantee the authenticity of the signature.

The winning bid will be donated to support the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend 2012.

A signed photo of Burlesque Legend, Dixie Evans.

Obtained in person by 21CB editor-in-chief, Holli-Mae Johnson, who can guarantee the authenticity of the signature.

The winning bid will be donated to support the Burlesque Hall of Fame Museum.

A signed print of Kalani Kokonuts – Reigning Queen of Burlesque/Miss Exotic World, 2009.

Obtained in person by 21CB editor-in-chief, Holli-Mae Johnson, who can guarantee the authenticity of the signature.

The winning bid will be donated to support the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend 2012.

Large Poster of, and signed by, Kalani Kokonuts – Reigning Queen of Burlesque/Miss Exotic World, 2009.

Obtained in person by 21CB editor-in-chief, Holli-Mae Johnson, who can guarantee the authenticity of the signature.

The winning bid will be donated to support the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend, 2012.

Two Paperback novels, written and signed by Immodesty Blaize – Reigning Queen of Burlesque/Miss Exotic World, 2007.

The winning bid will be donated to support the Burlesque Hall of Fame Museum.

A Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend 2011 Goody Bag, from a limited number that were given out to performers and VIP ticket holders.

Contains a number of donated products form various companies, including Babeland products, hair flower clips, coin purses, vouchers, tea sachets, wrist bands, a mug and matches. It also includes a 2011 Weekend programme and two magazines with special Burlesque Hall of Fame/Burlesque in Vegas feature spreads, one of which, Las Vegas Weekly, features Reigning Queen/Miss Exotic World 2009, Kalani Kokonuts on the cover, and is signed by her. The goody bag itself is a sturdy shopper bag with bright design.
The winning bid will be donated to support the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend 2012.

Next up – the agile burlesque veteran, Harvest Moon…

Harvest Moon ©Karl Giant

If I looked you up in a twinkling, rhinestone covered burlesque dictionary, what would the entry for ‘Harvest Moon’ say?

The sultry siren of burlesque, Harvest Moon is one of the pioneers of the neo-burlesque movement. She started by forming the award winning troupe, The Cantankerous Lollies, and is currently based in NYC as a circus/ burlesque star.

Paint us a little picture of your everyday life and work in New York…

I always have a cup of coffee in the morning. I either spend the day circus training, going to school in Harlem, or spending time with my boyfriend and our two gorgeous cats. I’m also a massage therapist and aerial dance instructor. In the evenings I rhinestone while watching old horror films.

What would you say is your greatest strength?

I’m tenaciously driven.

What has been the highlight or defining moment of your career to date, and also in your life overall?

To date it’s been my month spent in Napoli, Italy performing and spending time with the cast of Cabaret New Burlesque and my boyfriend.

Can you tell me a bit about your chosen act? Why have you chosen it, is it an old trusted act, or a new routine? Have you made any special changes or ‘upgrades’ to it for BHoF?

My chosen act is a silks routine that I picked out because of its uniqueness. I strip, and tassel twirl upside down – kind of unusual. I’m having a new costume made for the act, which I’m thrilled about.

You have competed before. What has previous experience taught you – do you plan to do anything differently this year, or adopt a different approach or attitude?

Yes, I have competed several times before in the pageant. In the past I was a little too nervous. I forgot to relax and get into the tease. It’s an honour to be there with all the rest, and be performing for the legends; I just have to remember to take my time with it all.

Is competing something you enjoy, or that pushes or encourages you to excel?

Absolutely – I was a competitive tennis player in my youth. I actually love the exhilaration of competition. It’s all for entertainment’s sake.

Why is BHoF special and important to you? What are some of your favourite memories from past years?

I have so many, where do I begin? The second time I visited the museum in was in Helendale,  and I drove out with the rest of the Cantankerous Lollies, Brian Fisherman, and his orchestra. We had a blast. We camped outside and really took in the desert. I remember diving into the pool after a performance and the first time I watched the legends.

How would you spend your year as Queen – do you have any specific plans or goals if you win?

Yes – I would map out a celebratory tour around the world, spreading the beauty and knowledge of the Burlesque Hall of Fame and the museum.

What are your dreams and hopes for burlesque in the future, and yourself as a part of it?

A  national and international network and community that thrives and keeps burlesque alive. Wait – that is happening!  A gorgeous theatre in NYC dedicated to a burlesque and vaudeville museum. That would be amazing…

www.missharvestmoon.com

The Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend

Full Weekend Line-up >>>

Full competitors list >>>

Tickets >>>

Read on for a glimpse into the life (and awe-inspiring schedule!) of Lux LaCroix…

Lux LaCroix ©Timothy Norris

If I looked you up in a twinkling, rhinestone covered burlesque dictionary, what would the entry for ‘Lux LaCroix’ say?

Lux LaCroix represents the four G’s of Burlesque: Ghetto, Gutter, Glitter and Glamour.

Paint us a little picture of your everyday life and work in LA…

I am a professional dancer and choreographer as my ‘day job’. I start my day at 4 am every morning with pointe (ballet) training until 5 am, and then I have training and rehearsal with the company I dance with until 7 am. After that I go to African dance training for and hour, and then it’s time for Modern class. If I don’t have a meeting with a client, I hit the treadmill at the gym for a 5k and then I head into the studio to work on choreography for my clients’ tours, music videos or awards show performances. I teach Zumba and SPXPilates twice a week in the evenings and I usually try to pick up another African dance or Modern class at least three times a week before I head out to a gig or see a band for the night. There is a lot of eating that happens in between all of this and not a lot of sleep. It’s a crazy schedule, but I would not change it for the world. I work with amazing people and I have incredible friends that know when to drag me out of the studio and either force me to go to a club or to bed.

What would you say is your greatest strength?

My greatest strength is my ability to organise and schedule. It’s kind of necessary when you live a life like this. Also being able to function on little to no sleep.

What has been the highlight or defining moment of your career to date, and also in your life overall?

There have been way too many to highlight. I’m just a mixed kid from Bed-Stuy Brooklyn who believed her parents when they told her that she could do anything she wanted. I am totally living in a dream and I am so grateful for every thing  and every one that has come into my life.

Can you tell me a bit about your chosen act? Why have you chosen it, is it an old trusted act, or a new routine? Have you made any special changes or ‘upgrades’ to it for BHoF?

Without revealing too much, it is a new number that was developed for BHoF and Lucha VaVOOM’s Valentine’s Spectacular.

“The BHoF weekend is a celebration of the art of burlesque and to be chosen to perform at any show in the weekend is a honour and you have to represent.”

You have competed before. What has previous experience taught you – do you plan to do anything differently this year, or adopt a different approach or attitude?

I’ve learned that you can’t get too much in your head about it. The fact of the matter is that you are booked for a show and you have an audience to entertain. Yes there are judges in that audience and there is a competition, but that is secondary to the SHOW. The BHoF weekend is a celebration of the art of burlesque and to be chosen to perform at any show in the weekend is a honour and you have to represent.

Is competing something you enjoy, or that pushes or encourages you to excel?

I’m a Virgo and a Type A personality (can you tell?) so hell yes, competing is something I enjoy; not on the level of, ‘I have to win’ but more on the level of, ‘I will do my best’.

Why is BHoF special and important to you? What are some of your favourite memories from past years?

I always call BHoF the company picnic. You come to this fabulous oasis, meet your co-workers, exchange ideas, and usually at some point get a little tipsy. Of course this weekend is first and foremost about the legends, and one of my fondest memories was meeting and being able to sit down and talk to (and more importantly LISTEN to) Lottie Graves and Toni Elling in 2006.

How would you spend your year as Queen – do you have any specific plans or goals if you win?

Running in the streets wearing my crown and sash screaming, ‘YO I’M QUEEN, FOOLS!’  Kidding… sort of. I want to continue the work that Indigo has started during her reign and I would like to work on consolidating information and networking for all of us involved in this beautiful expression of art.

What are your dreams and hopes for burlesque in the future, and yourself as a part of it?

I hope that burlesque keeps growing, expanding and moving forward. And I hope to do the same.

www.luxlacroix.com

The Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend

Full Weekend Line-up >>>

Full competitors list >>>

Tickets >>>

Here’s what Darlinda had to say…

Darlinda Just Darlinda ©Malgorzata Saniewska

If I looked you up in a twinkling, rhinestone covered burlesque dictionary, what would the entry for ‘Darlinda Just Darlinda’ say?

Mastermind of Bizarre Extravaganza!

Paint us a little picture of your everyday life and work in NY…

I’m a full time burlesque performer and producer. I teach at The New York School of Burlesque.

I live with my boyfriend, Scary Ben in a colourful apartment in Brooklyn. I love taking yoga and all the amazing dance classes NYC has to offer! I ride my bike everywhere, even to gigs!  I spend my days promoting shows that I produce (Bushwick Burlesque with Heather Loop and Scary Ben, pre-tour work for Dangerous Curves Ahead:Burlesque on the Go-Go, and The Schlep Sister shows I co-produce with my dance partner Minnie Tonka.) I rehearse, sew costumes and sometimes art model! At night I’m on stage!

What would you say is your greatest strength?

I grew up doing improvisational comedy and modern/jazz dance. So at a young age I honed my improvisation skill, which is my greatest strength!

What has been the highlight or defining moment of your career to date, and also in your life overall?

Performing and teaching in Anchorage Alaska with Dangerous Curves Ahead: Burlesque on the Go-Go.

Can you tell me a bit about your chosen act? Why have you chosen it, is it an old trusted act, or a new routine? Have you made any special changes or ‘upgrades’ to it for BHoF?

Scott Ewalt used to play Moby Dick for me when I would go-go dance at the Slipper Room. In March 2010, he and Kenny Scharf invited me to perform at Cosmic Cavern, a black light dance party in Kenny Scharf’s amazing black light art installation. So naturally I chose the song Moby Dick and designed the costume to be black light/ UV sensitive. Deity Delgado made my cape and shimmy dress.

I chose this act because it’s one of my favorites; I get to dance, shimmy and shake under black lights (yes I dork out on the effect of those lights!) Most importantly, the act connects to the artistic community of NYC which has a huge influence on me and I’m proud to represent it!

“Burlesque is fun and inspiring, but it’s also important to remember it’s an art form that requires discipline and practice!”

You have competed before with your fellow Schlep Sister, Minnie. What has previous experience taught you – do you plan to do anything differently this year, or adopt a different approach or attitude for the Reigning Queen category?

Performing in a duo is so different, so it’s hard to compare. Right now I’m doing as much cardio as possible to shimmy across the HUGE Orleans stage! That thing is bigger than my apartment! I won’t have Tonka to help me cover ground!

Why is BHoF special and important to you? What are some of your favourite memories from past years?

This will be my 8th year attending the BHoF weekend. It’s truly become a ‘chosen family’ reunion; the legends pass down some important life lessons, we dance the nights away, soak in the desert sun and watch the best burlesque in the world!

2005 will always go down in my memory as the most influential; it was the last year in Helendale at the ranch. I spent the day cleaning the museum alongside Dixie Evans, The World Famous *BOB*, Dirty Martini, Julie Atlas Muz and many other awesome burlesque women. That first year I really got to see how amazing the global Burlesque community is!

How would you spend your year as Queen – do you have any specific plans or goals if you win?

BHOF is all about the preservation of burlesque history, burlesque education for performers as well as educating the global community about burlesque. So I would spend my year traveling around educating the world about BHoF, helping the museum, and teaching classes!

What are your dreams and hopes for burlesque in the future, and yourself as a part of it?

2011 was my second year teaching at BurlyCon and it reinforced how important education and accountability are in the burlesque world. Burlesque is fun and inspiring, but it’s also important to remember it’s an art form that requires discipline and practice!

I want to keep inspiring people to love themselves! That’s a life goal that burlesque helps me manifest!

www.DarlindaJustDarlinda.com

The Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend

Full Weekend Line-up >>>

Full competitors list >>>

Tickets >>>

Imogen performs her hilarious 'Marie Antoinette' routine in the 'Best Debut' category at last year's Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend. ©Derek Jackson

If I looked you up in a twinkling, rhinestone covered burlesque dictionary, what would the entry for ‘Imogen Kelly’ say?

Thankfully someone else would write that entry, but it would have to be something along the lines of being a daredevil pioneer, a scintillating rule breaker, and somewhere it would also have to mention that I’m a hell of a lot of fun.

Paint us a little picture of your everyday life and work in Oz…

Ha! There’s nothing everyday in my life really – every day is so different. I’m a full time mum, so there is the routine of child raising to consider, but outside of that I’m always getting on a plane to go somewhere to perform, promote or give a talk. I am also a local historian and create walking tours that focus on the wild side of Sydney’s history, including showgirl history, gangland history and a walk on the queer side. I also work in circus, sideshow and theatre – so there’s rarely a still moment.

What would you say is your greatest strength?

My self belief is definitely the core reason for my survival as an artist. I have a tenacity that is rare and I work very hard to maintain my dream lifestyle.

What has been the highlight or defining moment of your career to date, and also in your life overall?

Gosh – there have been so many. I think the moment I realised that I had so much potential was at the Edinburgh Festival 2004 when all these star performers from comedy, variety and cabaret – people who I completely idolised and would never in my dreams have thought I could make an impact upon – came up to me after my shows gushing with enthusiasm. Many were just so inspired which was very, VERY flattering. Prior to that I would never have assumed people outside of my own nightclubs would have had a moment for my ‘art’. It change my life as it changed my opinion of myself – as I said, I had no notion of my true potential. I thought I was just another performer and was getting ready to retire. To this day there are still billboards of my face all over Edinburgh at festival time and they always ask if I’ll come back. So if I win, that is the first tour I’ll be doing as I have a lot to give back.

Can you tell me a bit about your chosen act? Why have you chosen it, is it an old trusted act, or a new routine? Have you made any special changes or ‘upgrades’ to it for BHoF?

Actually this act is one I have been working hard to solve for about eight years. It’s very flamboyant, colourful and fun. It’s also a very technical act as so much can go wrong, so it’s a risk. I have been warned against making too many changes which made me laugh as the footage I sent basically shows me surviving a massive costume malfunction and is very funny.  I just hope they don’t expect me to repeat that chaos. I will be doing the muchas speedy version too, as it’s normally an eight minute routine and I have to get it down to four minutes. It’s going to be a roller coaster, but it is an absolute joy to perform so I’m thrilled they picked it.

“My self belief is definitely the core reason for my survival as an artist. I have a tenacity that is rare and I work very hard to maintain my dream lifestyle.”

You competed last year for the first time – what was that first experience like? What has that experience taught you; do you plan to do anything differently this year, or adopt a different approach or attitude?

My first experience was of course very interesting. Everyone was very civil and some of the women in the dressing room were especially lovely. I hope that I feel as welcome as last time. The experience taught me not to attach too much to winning as you never know who you are up against and the event is so interesting and joyful. Some performers were gutted they didn’t win, but there can only be one winner. I had such a great time, I don’t think I would change a thing.

Is competing something you enjoy, or that pushes or encourages you to excel?

To be honest I’m a very big fish in a small pond in Australia, actually I’ve kind of run out of pond for myself. So I am looking for new ways to challenge myself and to get my work seen by a bigger audience, and you can’t get bigger than BHoF.

How would you spend your year as Queen – do you have any specific plans or goals if you win?

I have many plans. I’d like to do a world tour, create a new theatre show and just have the opportunity to show my work to the rest of the world. I also have a lot of plans for the Australian burlesque scene – ways to help it grow and flourish and  to help other performers get their work into the world as well.

What are your dreams and hopes for burlesque in the future, and yourself as a part of it?

I hope burlesque keeps growing. Not necessarily in size but in style and flavour. I sometimes feel it has stagnated a little and I will always push performers to be as creative as they can, to work with integrity and to push boundaries of what we think is possible. The minute an audience think they can take you for granted you need to shake things up a bit, so I’m all for the shaking. This revival is very special after all, and I would only ever want to see burlesque be at the top of any audience’s list of things to watch – so it needs to keep evolving.

www.imogenkelly.com.au

The Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend

Full Weekend Line-up >>>

Full competitors list >>>

Tickets >>>

Greetings from the road!

A photo shoot in downtown Missoula.

We started off on April 16^th with a drive through the ‘Big Sky Country’ of Montana on our way to Missoula.  Our host, Stella Pearl of the Cigarette Girls Burlesque, welcomed us with a hearty, home-cooked meal. She served us local Montana huckleberry wine which, with the altitude, went straight to our heads!  We woke up at the crack of dawn the next day to do a radio interview at Trail 103, where we gave a shout-out to all the cowboys! That afternoon we held a session of our Burlesque Act Assessment Workshop for the Cigarette Girls.  Afterwards, we all got dolled up to do a photo shoot in the middle of downtown Missoula.  A mob of burlesque ladies walking the streets was a hoot! The show was so much fun and it was awesome to see the local performers do the acts that we had just worked on earlier that day.

We were sad to leave Missoula, but thrilled to have one of the most beautiful and joyful drives we’ve ever had. The snow-capped mountains of Idaho presented many Dangerous Curves indeed! We couldn’t drive five minutes without one of us squealing how amazing the view was! We rolled into Boise, a typical Pacific Northwest hamlet for eccentric folks, and performed with local favorites Mimi Meshuga and Anne McDonald. Although we didn’t spot any spuds, we still had a terrific time in The Gem State’s largest city.

Anita in San Diego for a weekend at home...

Our ninth show was in Reno, NV on April 19th with Desert Rose Revue,  and we were treated like royalty – we each got our own hotel room! We’re happy to say we didn’t lose our shirt at the casino… just our clothes on stage at the show!

The next day, April 20th, we were super excited to drive to San Francisco for Tease-O-Rama! However, on our way we got caught in a traffic nightmare – the highway to San Francisco was closed due to a loose gunman and a California car chase!  There were many detours, but nothing was going to keep us from one of our favorite cities! Once we arrived in SF, just in time for tech, we bid Anita Cookie farewell. She headed to San Diego, her hometown, to visit her family and boyfriend for the weekend.

Tease-O-Rama: The Schlep Sisters (Minnie and Darlinda) with Coco Lectric and Ruby Joule from The Jigglewatts backstage!

Tease-O-Rama 2012 (TOR) was simply fabulous! Clams Casino, Darlinda Just Darlinda and The Schlep Sisters (Minnie Tonka and Darlinda Just Darlinda) performed on Friday night. Bimbo’s 356 Club is such a special venue! On Saturday, Tease-O-Rama offered a variety of daytime classes and activities. GiGi La Femme popped in to pose for a Dr. Sketchy’s session held at the hotel. Darlinda participated in a Producing 101 panel along with Burgundy Brixx and King Fish from Hubba Hubba Revue, which was facilitated by Penny Starr Jr.  Darlinda felt it was helpful and important to have a discussion about our varying producing experiences from around North America and got a lot out of it. That night, GiGi and Minnie performed to a sold-out crowd and the four of us wrapped up TOR with a few more cocktails and a photobomb session with SF’s own, Johnny Crash.

GiGi made an early morning pilgrimage to the original Exotic World Museum in Helendale, CA.

Our farewell meal was fish tacos and burritos, and with our bellies full we hit the road to LA. One of our favorite photographers, Don Spiro, opened up his lovely home to us for some much needed R&R. In the wee hours of the morning on April 23rd, GiGi took a personal pilgrimage to the original Exotic World Museum in Helendale, CA. Even though the grounds aren’t what they used to be, she was still overwhelmed by the energy of the past.

We rallied for afternoon pedicures and then reunited with Anita Cookie at the World Famous Pink’s for hot dogs and coleslaw. That evening, we performed with Lili VonSchtupp at Monday Night Tease, and thanks to the lovely Glama Sutra for picking up after us! It was our third time there and it certainly won’t be our last: we Love Lili and L.A!

On stage at Monday Night Tease, L.A. ©S.H. Photo

The following day we had a long drive from LA to Tucson through the desert on a horse with no name (actually his name is Al, Ray-Ray for short) until we reached our oasis, the serene home of Desire D’Amor and her husband Mike. After feasting on fast food tacos and homemade margaritas, we all turned in for the night. The next morning on April 25th, Desire made us an egg scramble with cactus (a local delicacy known as ‘nopales’) for breakfast! We had a leisurely day by the pool followed by more margaritas and a crafting session, aka DCA Pastie Sweatshop. Our show that night was with Black Cherry Burlesque at The Surly Wench Pub. It was an awesome space with a huge dressing room and we each got our own dressing table! Everyone was welcoming, the show was a blast, and the burgers were killer! Next up: Albuquerque, New Mexico with Burlesque Noir!

Minnie, Darlinda, Clams, Gigi and Anita.

For more information and all the tour dates, visit

www.burlesqueonthegogo.com

]]> http://www.21stcenturyburlesque.com/on-the-road-with-dangerous-curves-ahead-week-two/feed/ 0