The Goddess, Immodesty Blaize, talks bonkbusters, Ambition, waistlines and Texas.

Divertida Devotchka

1. You’ve never performed in Texas, correct? What are your expectations for your March 20th show in Dallas?

I am really looking forward to coming. The promoter has been incredibly welcoming. Generally I have no expectations or pre-judgments whenever I perform somewhere new; I just give everything to my audience wherever I am!

2. What made you choose Dallas for the location of the U.S. premier of your new film, “Burlesque Undressed”?

There’s a great tradition of entertainment in Texas and I’ve been approached a number of times to perform there. The opportunity to combine a USA Film Festival premiere with a performance (which features Dirty Martini and Perle Noire) was a great idea for collaboration.

3. Have you noticed any significant differences between your audiences in the U.S. and those at your shows in the U.K.?

I find the audiences equally appreciative, and with a similar split of around 60% female to 40% male. If anything I would say that perhaps the mainstream American audience is a little more conservative than the European audience.

4. Your first novel “Tease” came out last year, and your second, “Ambition” will be out later this year. Care to tell us a little about the upcoming book? What other literary aspirations do you have?

The upcoming book is called ‘Ambition’ and it’s set in Vegas. It’s another bonkbuster and so you’ll find plenty of sex, scandal, private jets, Alpha males, superheroines, feathers, big hair…I think the best way to sum it up would be Dynasty meets Paul Verhoeven’s ‘Showgirls’. I’m seriously considering setting the third one in Dallas…so I hope I get to come back for some more in depth ‘research’!

5. After seeing you in person, I must say that the most astounding of all your breathtaking features was your waistline. You mention in your film that your waist shrinks to 19 or 20 inches when you’re wearing your corset. Have you always been able to tighten it so severely, or did you train your waist by tight lacing? If so, how long have you been tight lacing?

Thanks! No I don’t train my waist, I have an hourglass shape at rest, I’m 38-26-38 – so it’s not too much of a problem for me to take it down. The key for me to get the extra inch is just to not eat anything bulky the day of a show. I wouldn’t recommend it to anyone as daily wear and I only wear them that tight for short periods, I find it very uncomfortable to go down to 19 inches, as it hurts my back in particular. I once nearly vomited right before a show when I realized I couldn’t actually breathe. But I was stuck in the darn thing, with my shoulder pack strapped on underneath, my crystal underwire garroting my breasts, my headdress clamped in place, a choker tight around my throat, and sweltering under 50 kilos of feathers – I think it was a costume claustrophobic reaction. I’m sure there are many out there who identify!

6. In your film, your milliner Stephen Jones made the comment about your grandiose wardrobe, “It’s a costume. But she always wears it; it never wears her.” Can you think of any scenarios (performances, photo shoots, etc) in which you felt like your costume was “wearing you”? I’ve heard you describe some of your headdresses as “medieval torture devices.” How do you manage to make wearing them look so easy? (and glamorous, at that!)

Some costumes can be painful to wear, but it’s the smile you wear that completely outshines all that discomfort. If you want the exaggerated visual effect that the costume gives then you just find a way to deal with it. You can ‘tame’ the costume – rehearse a lot with it and find out what movement you can and can’t do, and get used to the pain/weight/restriction. Ultimately I think your persona still has to be the star, rather than the rhinestones – so the costume should suit, and work for the personality, not the other way around. I don’t mind the ‘no pain no gain’ thing – if it’s a hell of an effort to get it right then it feels like I’m going the extra mile in my presentation. I somehow feel more dressed to kill if my feet are dying in 6 inch heels. This will get me lynched by feminists, but it’s just how I feel, for me I don’t see the difference between that and the pain I feel after 100 crunches in the gym!

7. Other than the snag you ran into when choosing the name for the Tease Show, have you had any other experiences with censorship?

Not especially. Although occasionally some of my corporate clients ask me to reveal less, and not to remove my bra. (Dior for example). I’ll work closely with my clients to make sure we meet in the middle and achieve something they are 100% comfortable with, whilst still giving a burlesque performance. I’m not sure there’s any point just doing a dance routine in a corset, I wouldn’t try and pass that off as burlesque.

8. I’ve read that you immersed yourself in books as child, and in your film you touch on the topic of the escapist element of burlesque. Are your performances a way for you to bring those childhood fantasies to life? I mean, what little girl wouldn’t want an 8-foot crystal-encrusted red rocking horse or a 6-foot bejeweled telephone?

Actually an element of that horse prop was inspired by memories of the rocking horse my grandfather carved for me when I was tiny! However my shows are very much centered around ‘The Woman’ and I don’t really perform girlie things – no tutus or cupcakes. (At 6’3 in my heels it would look absurd if I came over all porcelain doll.) For me the escapist element came about because I always loved to create fantasy worlds and continued that into my adult life through working in film, and with writing and art. I am a huge fan of ‘camp’ which obviously involves an exaggeration of reality too, I love to include humor, and a sense of ‘ridiculous’, it’s probably just the European eccentricity in me.

9. What upcoming projects are you excited about? What are your goals for the upcoming year?

I tend not to talk too much about future projects in case I jinx them! But I will have some fabulous new performances in store, books….

10. How do you go about obtaining the goal of being perceived as “other-worldly,” as you mention in your film?
 


I used that term I guess as a way of relating to the concept of a ‘glamour’ which is, literally, a spell. With showgirls and actresses in mind for example, in setting up a much more exaggerated version of reality, it presents a vision to an audience that they would never see in everyday life – ie not in their immediate world – otherworldly. That way it becomes a special and memorable experience to watch and it has the capacity to transport the audience away from their every day concerns. However if you think about it, we create this believable idea that we waft around in gowns and rhinestones all day – the irony is that it’s not just an illusion, we really do live like that – because it’s part of the job, it’s vertical integration.

11. How do you think burlesque will change in upcoming years to accommodate the current boom in the industry?


Certainly there are great opportunities for mainstream awareness. Burlesque was always meant to be populist and accessible for both high and low culture, so it’s good to see a return to a mainstream audience base. Although it’s impossible to predict how the genre will evolve. I have no idea! I just hope that in whatever direction it progresses there will continue to be great new ideas, and high quality. If there aren’t then the audiences won’t want to come back for more!

12. When U.S. audiences first saw you, it was at the 2007 Miss Exotic World competition where you took the crown, but what about the first time you ever hit the stage as a burlesque performer? Did you have large scale props, fabulous costumes, and spot-on choreography or was it more “modest”?


Back in ‘98 there were no burlesque clubs in London; I performed on the performance art scene. There wasn’t the stage space for huge props, and there weren’t the audiences back then to pay for $50,000 costumes! However it was a vibrant and creative underground scene, I learned a lot. My first ‘classic’ act was a ‘garden of delights’, with an old velvet chaise lounge covered in fresh flowers, roses, petals, it smelt great but was pricey to do every show. (In retrospect it was a little like Lili St Cyr’s flower-covered throne.) I also experimented with Berliner cabaret influences, some of my acts were more ‘neo’. I surprised an audience once when I entered in immaculate black Victorian men’s riding gear to a baroque, before stripping into a military pony girl in sparkling harnesses to a Goldfrapp heavy electro cover of ‘Yes Sir I can Boogie’ which she sung as a political statement about the 2nd Iraq war. I really enjoyed those early days of experimentation! I guess it allowed my stage persona to develop naturally.

13. You found your burlesque name when the gas man compared you to the comic book character Modesty Blaise. Other than physical characteristics, is there anything else about her character with which you can identify?


Yes she had been a child without a family who had to grow up quick. Other than that, no I’m not a hit woman. I do have a secret penchant for thigh boots though, but as part of uniform or riding….

14. With so many projects, from managing the details of every production from the props & costumes to the talent, to writing and film projects, how do you manage to find time for things like meals and sleep?

Haha, I don’t! I’m writing this at 4 am!

15. What does a typical day look like for you? Is there any sort of routine? 


No routine. But I have to be disciplined, for example I have to get my word counts done when I’m in the middle of a novel, I have a weekly training regime, I live by deadlines for shows etc …. But it’s a funny old job, as you know it’s time consuming to design and create shows, and the performances take me all over the world so I travel a lot. I have a low boredom threshold so it probably suits me best that no two days are the same. 
I try to squeeze in time in my house in France whenever possible so I can take an afternoon out by the pool to gather my thoughts.

16. What do you enjoy when not immersed in burlesque?


Art. Any kind of art or culture. Although not performance necessarily, I do try to have a break from that. I also like to DJ electro, disco, and soul as listening to 40s/50s music every day drives me round the bend occasionally.

17. Just out of curiosity, how many diamonds adorn your diamond merkin?


None, they’re constructed in China by my costume jeweler who uses cut crystals. Shhh, that’s not very other-worldly is it!

Miss Blaize will be performing for the first time in Texas on March 20th at the Lakewood Theater, as well as screening her new film Burlesque Undressed. For more info on the show, please visit our Events page.

Dirty Martini talks Texans, the Moisture Festival, straight men, and about her first Burlesque show.

Interview: Divertida Devotchka

Q: You’re featured in Immodesty Blaize’s documentary “Burlesque Undressed.” What was your reaction when you were informed you’d be included in the project?

Immodesty approached me about participating in her film when I performed in her show the year before at Koko nightclub in London. It was a fabulous show and I love her so I was more than happy to be interviewed for the film at the Burlesque Hall of Fame weekend the following year. Unfortunately the amazing footage from that show wasn’t able to be used in her documentary and I wasn’t able to perform in the show that all of the wonderful footage was pulled from due to my shoot schedule for the French film “Tournee” which will premiere at Cannes in May, but luckily it was used for my documentary Dirty Martini and the New Burlesque which will screen at the Dallas film festival in April. I’m really thrilled that the footage will be used as it was a very professional shoot and I was devastated that I wasn’t able to perform in her show last May because that was even better looking! I hate to have to pass up any opportunity to work with Immodesty.

Q: You’ll be performing in Dallas on March 20th for the U.S. premier of the aforementioned film. Do you think Dallas is ready for Dirty?

Every city I’ve gone to all over the world has been very warm and receptive to my performance and made me feel extremely welcome and I’ve heard that Texans have big hearts so I’m excited to perform there. I was in Austin a couple of years ago and had a great experience there and loved it so I suspect I will feel right at home.

Q: Do you have any other film projects in the works?

I have two short films out currently touring the film festivals, one a short format documentary by Iban del Campo and a beautiful silent film by Steven Dirkes called the Object. I worked with French actor Mathieu Amalric for a film that will premiere this May in Cannes called Tournee and Dirty Martini and the New Burlesque by Gary Beeber will be having its first screening at the Moisture Festival in Seattle March 29th. I’ll be there with Burlesque Undressed on the 23rd as well. It’s been really fun planning Immodesty’s U.S. release along with my film too.

Q: You were recently voted the top fan favorite in the 21st Century Pinups Burlesque Top 50. How does that make you feel? What was your reaction when you heard the news?

I was very surprised to be voted number one and honored because of the company in the top 20 alone! It must have been a very tight vote indeed. I’m a big fan of Catherine D’Lish and Michelle L’Amour and Immodesty and Julie Atlas Muz and Dita and and and….. so you can only imagine how incredible it is to have such wonderful fans to vote me in there too! I feel very lucky indeed.

Q: The Lagerfeld photos in the V Magazine size issue are absolutely out-of-this-world! In a recent interview you mentioned that you didn’t know it was going to be a plus-size issue when you agreed to do it. Had you known that going into it, would you still have agreed to do the shoot? Do you feel like knowing that beforehand would have altered your perception, preparation or behavior going into it?

Well…. It’s not like you tell Karl Lagerfeld and V Magazine you couldn’t possibly come to Paris and shoot at the House of Chanel! It was an incredible experience and I felt shocked that Steven Gan and Steven Chaiken at V thought of me for the editorial. I suppose the whole thing made more sense when I found out a month later that it would be a magazine devoted to all body types. I think it’s a shame that people only think of it as a plus size issue when there are really all types of women represented. Actually, come to think of it there aren’t all types of women in it. People were complaining that I am obese and some of the other models were as well, but I didn’t see anyone over a size 16 in any of the shoots. Considering that the average size for women in the U.S. is currently a size 14, there seems to be a disconnect in the fashion world. Big surprise there. My goal for what I’m doing in burlesque is to have women with womanly features represented properly in today’s hyper-controlled media. I believe that this is a big step for me and my mission statement!

Q: You’ve mentioned that you seek inspiration in drag queens and burlesque legends of the past. Care to elaborate on this?

When I moved to New York City, I went to drag shows at least once a week. I really loved the spirited and improvisational nature of the performances and the fact that they were edgy and interesting. Burlesque never really died in New York. Kitten Natividad performed at Show World in her own burlesque review in the 80’s, Ann Magnusson hosted a Vaudeville night featuring burlesque themed material and Jackie 60 in the early 90’s kept the spirit alive. Drag Queens in NY like International Chrysis and Candice Cayne kept that sexualized uber glamour alive for us and we should all be praying to them like the goddesses they are! They in turn – along with the Something Weird Video reels of old burlesque that I studied before creating my own burlesque routines – inspired me to be the glamour-crazed performer I am today.

Q: You were inspiration in the neo-burlesque revival, especially in New York. What have you noticed about the changes in the neo-burlesque scene in the past ten years? Any patterns you notice in different parts of the country?

Yes, there are patterns but every place is different. I knew that in London and the UK it would become a big retro craze like Carnaby Street in the 60’s. When I performed in Paris for the first time I knew it would grow there too. I saw the very first new burlesque show in Paris’ Bastille district. Kitten on the Keys and I went to see Kisses Cause Trouble there and arrived too late because we were confused by the 24 hour clock. They ended up repeating the entire show just for us and their fans stayed to watch it again as well. That’s the spirit of New Burlesque- that punk rock DIY feeling! Burlesque will always have its high end shows and its more campy and experimental shows and it’s wonderful that there is room for all that self expression. I feel it’s very important for women to express their sexuality in a free and unencumbered way with no edicts from society or more particularly straight men.

Q: How rewarding is it to know that you are such an inspiration to women of all sizes? You’ve remarked before that “the power of possibility” is the most important result of burlesque’s influence on its female audience. Can you talk more about that power?

I would hope that I inspire ladies not to give up on their own power. I’m happy to be a role model for plus-sized ladies, but more than that I feel like the leader of a powerful revolution for women’s rights. What we do in burlesque in the 21st century is so much more than just glamour and beauty and a rhinestone leg show. I believe it also to be an important expression of female culture. People talk about the Amazonian tribe of myth, and well, I think we have that potential as well. Women are very powerful and taking away our power over our own reproduction and sexual expression is akin to castration. It keeps us down and powerless.

Q. Do you think Karl Lagerfeld knew what he was getting into when you first entered the room for your shoot? Was he able to match your energy and pace when trying to capture your images?

Lagerfeld is a very busy glamour puss! He was shooting his own film that day and my shoot was like a little side diversion. He was exhausted by the time he got to me because his day started at 7am. It’s not easy to be the most glamorous man in the world and have your day start at that hour. Our shoot started at 10pm right after the film wrapped for the day, but he gave me as much as I gave him. I adored him and everyone on that set. They treated me with respect and I had a wonderful time.

Q. You’ve said that there were several Coco Chanel look-alikes milling about the area during your shoot due to a movie being filmed. How crazy was that?

Everyone on set thought it was surreal seeing Jane Schmitt dressed as Chanel later in her life. She was the spitting image of Chanel herself! The film is posted to Youtube (and you can see it here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e3t_3fIWFlw). I loved the woman who played the Duchess of Windsor, Amanda Harlech; she was someone with an incredible aura. I had never heard of her, but when I met her I knew she was someone I wanted to get to know better. Apparently she is a confidant to Lagerfeld and John Galliano. I just thought she was an amazing person. Jane Schmitt was too and that’s why she was in the photos with me. It wasn’t planned, we just happened to be talking and getting along and Lagerfeld started shooting us. She was a little unsure at first, but I made her feel welcome and told her I wanted her in the photos. I’m glad one of them was chosen for the magazine. I thought it was a fun juxtaposition as I felt Chanel’s spirit pirouetting in her grave while I was posing on her stairwell!

Q. Would you say that in a way your size/shape has been a double-edged sword for you in the industry? I’ve seen remarks from you before that you feel like people always focus on that as opposed to your art/talent being the primary focus as it is with some of your contemporaries.

I do wish that people could not have prejudices, but that’s a tall order. I started performing burlesque routines because I felt that it put my dance training and body type in perspective, but some people can’t go on that journey with me due to their own ideas of what women should be. I hate that should word. I think it’s very dangerous.

Q. What the most fun experience you’ve had since embarking on your burlesque career? What has been your most challenging experience to date?

There are challenges in every career. Mine has been to keep myself motivated to make new work, but luckily I have had life changing experiences seeing what other performers have done within the burlesque medium and it keeps me inspired to make new and different pieces. The best experiences have been traveling and meeting new performers everywhere. The first time I heard backstage chatter about pasties and burlesque costumes with a mid-west accent was a fun and weird experience. Walking into old theaters and feeling the history in those buildings has been amazing too! I’ve met some incredible people because of burlesque, some very famous and some just regular folks and I’m always amazed at people’s generosity and fabulousness!

Dirty Martini will be performing with Perle Noire and the mighty Immodesty Blaize on March 20th at the Lakewood Theater, as well as answering questions about her role in the new film Burlesque Undressed. For more info on the show, please visit our Events page.

Lola Van Ella took time out of her busy schedule to discuss merkin malfunctions, St. Louis, spontaneity and the role of comedy in burlesque. Lola Van Ella will be performing in Dallas on Feb 27th. Performance info.

Interview: Divertida Divotchka; Photos: Joshua Rowan and Connie LaFlam

Q: You’re coming to Texas for the Amour show at the end of February. Will it be your first time performing in Texas? Do you have to make any modifications to your routines to perform here?
 
Yes! It will be my Texas debut and I’m so looking forward to performing in the Amour show.  And yes, it’s funny, because although I live in the “conservative” Midwest, there is a lot of freedom for performers. One of the acts that I am bringing to the Amour show is my Van Ella Frosting act which involves more nudity than maybe most acts. And I will be modifying it slightly for the Dallas audience. I wouldn’t want anyone to faint (or get anyone or myself in trouble). Ha!

Q: Your burlesque resume is rather impressive. You dance, sing, instruct burlesque and emcee (and I’m sure much more.) How and when did you get your start?

I have always performed in some capacity since childhood, and have been singing, acting, dancing and doing voice over work professionally for 8 years. At one point, about 6 years ago, a theater company in St. Louis asked me to sing and perform a reverse strip tease, which I did for the entire run of the production, and had no idea that it was burlesque!  It was one of those, “I was doing burlesque before I knew what it really was” kind of thing. 

Of course, I loved Gypsy, Busby Berkeley musicals, Marilyn Monroe, and show girls, but I didn’t realize that these things were all connected.  I knew I was an exhibitionist at heart, and shortly after that performance, I played the lead character in a comedic play that required me to do full frontal nudity. I discovered that I had absolutely no issue with that.  It was fun and plus, it was funny, which I enjoyed being. 

In 2005, I was singing in a cabaret when I found out that there was a burlesque show that had just started in St. Louis.  I went to check it out, and found a very small, unpolished, rough show, with no real lights, costumes or emcee. But it had a ton of potential.  I started a week later.  In the beginning there were only a few of us, including Greta Garter, Mariel ala Mode and Honey D’Lite, but it quickly grew.  The Alley Cat Revue was the only weekly burlesque show in St. Louis for over 4 years and it’s where I really had a chance to hone and polish my craft. Plus, I got to sing and dance and tease and strip for lots of people, every week. How great is that?
 
Q: Is burlesque your full time job?

Yes, and sometimes it’s my overtime job! When I’m not performing, I teach a weekly class and am constantly working on producing the next show.  I also travel frequently, to teach and perform, and get to run an amazing troupe of performers, The Bon-Bons. So yes, very full time! I love it and wouldn’t have it any other way.
 
Q: Watching your routines, it seems that you really understand the importance of comedy in burlesque. Please tell me about your philosophy on the use of humor in your acts.

I strongly and firmly believe in a strict regimen of laughter and wit within the realm of the burlesque arts. It’s of the utmost importance to find the humor in a show that you are doing. Comedy is a serious business, and therefore needs to be taken very seriously, as does burlesque. It’s a very serious business. I am funny because it is the only way to make burlesque legitimate and work in an applicable way. Of course, I am completely kidding.

Burlesque is supposed to be fun. Comedy is fun.  I like to think I’m fun. Even when I am performing a classic or sexy strip, I still like to find places for humor.  Burlesque as with all types of entertainment, needs to be just that- entertaining. I live to entertain and to be entertained. I can’t imagine life any other way.
 

Q: While doing my pre-interview research, I found a Youtube clip in which an audio malfunction almost ruined a routine for Gravity Plays Favorites, and as the emcee, they asked you to sing a song so they could finish. You sang “Whatever Lola Wants” A CAPELLA while they ended the act. I was so impressed by how calmly and confidently you responded. What was going through your head at the time?

Why, thank you! That is a great memory, actually, though I’m not even sure what went through my head at that moment.  Michelle and Katrina are such good friends and in that moment, I knew and they knew that they needed to finish.  The show must go on!  It just kind of happened organically.  It was really spontaneous and fantastic.  I really love that moment.  It’s one of my (and happy to say, their) favorites.
 
Q: Do you have any other stories of show/routine/costume malfunctions and how you handled them?

Oh plenty!  The most recent and notorious one is the “Lola loses her merkin” incident.  It was right before the New Orleans Burlesque Festival and I was performing my competition piece for the last time before leaving.  At the end of the act, when I was supposed to turn around and pose with my spatula, the back of my merkin fell off!  In a split second decision, I pulled it completely off, and turned around and used the spatula to cover the rest of my modesty. Immediately after, my dear friend, Michelle Mynx ran back stage and said “I don’t know if that was on purpose or not, but that has to be the way you perform it in New Orleans!” I knew she was right, even before she told me.  There have been so many others that there is this running joke about me and my technical difficulties.  I’ve actually had numerous fans and friends tell me that they love when things go wrong for me, because they think it’s so great to see how I’ll handle it. I guess I’m supposed to take it as a compliment!
 
Q: What suggestions can you offer for burlesque success?

Self awareness. The understanding of the importance of quality over quantity. The desire and need to constantly learn- Always.  Respect for those who came before you. Lots of perseverance and self motivation. And of course, lots of sparkle, smile and charm.

 
Q: How do you like to spend your time when you’re not working?

I love to travel.  Always.  I’m a total outdoors-y kind of girl, actually.  I love being outside. Walking, dancing, climbing things.  I also love animals.  I love to read. Daydreaming.  Music.  Spending time with loved ones.  And I absolutely love to cook. And eat. A lot. I adore food. 
 
Q: Please share 3 little known facts about yourself.

1. I am a fantastic cook.  Really.  I humbly admit that I’m very good at it.
2. I know the names, stories, and authors of dozens of children’s books, including “Where the Wild Things Are”. I know that book by heart. 
3. I can stand on my head for a disturbing amount of time.

Selling Out Show After Show is No Accident: Meet The Lollie Bombs

Story: Shoshana; Photos: Benn Britt and Through the Looking Glass

Year after year, audiences pack into the cozy Pocket Sandwich Theater, sip on sangria served in a pitcher, and enjoy their favorite late night revue- with everything from a crazed Zombie shooting character, to a pill poppin’ princess, and a gal dropping down from the ceiling performing a silks number, this evening is anything but “traditional” burlesque. Since forming in 2006, The Lollie Bombs and their Valentine’s Day show has become a Dallas tradition. In fact, the Lollies are so popular, that in a city known for its distaste for pre-show ticket sales, much preferring the walk-up route, they sell out almost every performance way in advance. So what is the secret to the Lollies success, we decided to try and find out.

Like most great creations, the zygote that later became The Lollie Bombs started out as a crazy idea in the head of woman. Miss Angi B Lovely had the idea of starting a burlesque troupe, and went to visit a theater owner who was looking for a reoccurring booking. She quickly rounded up four other dancing pals- Lily Lawless, Roxie Moxie, Kitty B, and Lady J. After performing 3 shows under the name “Burlesque Contempo”, the gals decided they were in need of a lot of assistance. “We weren’t really considering ourselves a ‘troupe’, at the time – really we were just putting on a burlesque show in a town where no one knew anything about burlesque and there was no ‘scene’ as of yet.”, explains Roxie Moxie, who relocated to Seattle in 2008.

Eric Hall went to one of the earliest shows, and agreed that the ladies had a lot of potential. Hall was hired as the group’s choreographer, and the show started to really come together. Along with the new skill set, the ladies decided they needed a new name. During a late night brainstorming session, Lawless popped out with “The Lollie Bombs” and it was a hit! The Lollie Bombs began performing in different venues around Dallas, and pounding the pavement with handmade flyers, until they had developed quite a following- but they still needed a permanent home. They found that home in the summer of 2007 in The Pocket Sandwich Theater, and the troupe had changed a bit. While Roxie Moxie, Angi B Lovely, and Lily Lawless remained, Kitty and Lady moved off to other cities; while Black Mariah, Miss Malicious, and Jai L Bait joined the troupe.

Pocket Sandwich audiences loved the Lollie Bombs late night performances, and the theater loved the new fans that the Lollies brought in with them. The Lollie Bombs began doing shows every other month at the theater, and achieved a consistency with audiences that many other troupes and producers haven’t been able to achieve. That consistency opened the doors to many media outlets, who simply weren’t interested in a fly by night production- either those newly starting out, or constantly switching venues with no regularity. Media brings in more fans, and fans bring in more media, creating a hefty audience base for the troupe, but media won’t keep fans coming back. What gives the ladies such a regular fan base of folks who come again and again? Part of that may be their high attention to production detail- putting on an entire theatrical spectacle. Another part is certainly the diversity of the show, and the constant revamping and growth in The Lollie repertoire. While members have come and gone, and new members have come on, The Lollie Bombs continue to thrive. The current Lollies are Angi B Lovely (left the troupe briefly to relocate to Houston, but returned to the group as soon as she returned to Dallas), Miss Malicious, Black Mariah, Jai L Bait (joined 2007, left for a brief spell, and returned in 2009), Trixi Toxic (joined 2008), Scarlette Switches (2009). For more on the troupe’s success, we decided to ask the ladies of The Lollie Bombs themselves.

Meet The Lollie Bombs:

Angi B Lovely
BIO: Angi B. Lovely began performing at a very young age as part of a dance group called the Konocti Klogging Kids. As a teenager Angi discovered Ball Room dance and worked as a dance instructor, competing at the professional level. She studied musical theater and pursued an acting career. Eventually, Angi’s interests turned to circus arts– fire spinning, aerial silks, and hula hoop.  As a founding member of the Lollie Bombs, Angi B. Lovely has been involved in Burlesque since 2006.  Her current repertoire is a mix of dance, theater and circus art. 

Q: In your opinion, what is the secret to the success of The Lollie Bombs?

The secret to The Lollie Bombs success is being able to adapt and change as time goes on, we are always looking forward and improving on the production value of our shows. Also, we are an extremely multifaceted group of girls and our repertoire is always expanding, you never know what to expect from a Lollie Bombs show. 

Q: What do audiences love most about you?
Audiences love me for my diverse skill set, especially hula hoops and aerial acrobatics.

Q: Who should be cast as you in the movie about your life?

Lucille Ball

Q: When did you know you should be a performer?

I knew I was meant to be a performer when I would bring my tutu to preschool and ask change into it during recess. 

Miss Malicious
Q: In your opinion, what is the secret to the success of The Lollie Bombs?

The secret to the Lollies success is diversity. You get it all for the price of 20 bucks- acrobatic work, snarky gals, butts, boobies, and fantastic choreography- Everything!

Q: What do audiences love most about you?

Audiences love me for my sarcasm and I think my butt; along with my thought provoking numbers and the overall destruction of everything. 

Q: When did you know you should be a performer?

I knew I was meant to be a performer when I was 6 years old and would act out every movie I saw. I was never shy; my step mother used to say I could have been easily abducted as a child because I would talk to ANYONE, especially if they had an animal with them.

I started acting in plays when I was 8 or 9, and dancing and doing gymnastics around the same time. I have always loved the stage. In junior high we would skip class by saying we had a big performance coming up, go to Drama, hang out with the teacher and build props all day. Somehow I still passed everything!

Q: What’s your pre-show ritual?

I rehearse a bit…eat some carbs so I don’t get hungry during a show…then get a beer…Stella or Blue Moon.

Black Mariah
Q: What is your pre-show ritual?

I listen to music by Brian Setzer Orchestra. I love his music and it puts me in the mood to perform. I also listen to the music I am performing to that evening on my IPod with my headphones. I close my eyes and visualize the routine from beginning to end and see it as if it is a goal I have already achieved. Physically rehearsing is just as important as mentally rehearsing.

Q: What is the secret to the Lollie Bombs success?

Diversity in every aspect of our performance.

Q: What do audiences love most about you?

Curves and comedy! I don’t take myself so seriously that I can’t laugh at myself. I’m not perfect; I think that makes me relatable to my audience.

Q: Who should be cast as you in the movie about your life?

Zooey Deschanel

Jai L’ Bait
BIO: A true old soul, Jai L’ Bait knows to much for her own good. Abandon at the age of two, she was brought up by the gypsies. At an early age, she had the knack to capture audience’s attention. She was trained to use her looks and talents to her advantage and soon, as a weapon. Shimmy and shaking her way on the stage, she caught the attention of the Lollie Bombs where she joined their burlesque group. A natural seducer, you older guys may want to watch your back! This young temptress is here for the music and mischief. Get ready for trouble…

Q: When did you know you should be a performer?

I knew I was meant to be a performer when I was a child and I begged my parents to take me to auditions to Corpus Christi to audition for the Selena movie. Then I threw a dramatic fit because they told me no and I was extremely frustrated because I was convinced I would get the part. I was about 9.

Q: What is the secret to The Lollies’ success?

There is no one like us. We truly are a unique group that brings something unheard of in the burlesque world.

Q: What do audiences love most about you?

Ha! The fact that I look like a 12 yr. old, my blasphemy, and according to the Lollies–my booty! 

Q: Who should be cast as you in the movie about your life?

Mila Kunis

Scarlette Switches

SCARLETTE SWITCHES is no stranger to burlesque and the art of the tease. She has been performing in risqué groups and as a solo artist for over 10 years. As a singer, model and burlesque artist, her style often combines influences of cabaret, vintage fetish and Hollywood glamour. She performed alongside Jamie Deadly, Angela Ryan, and Athena Fatale in “Burlesque on the Fringe.” She also performed as a guest artist with “Fluff Girl Burlesque.”  She joined the Lollie Bombs Burlesque in early 2009.

Q: What is the secret to The Lollies’ success?

Diversity and courage.

Q: What do audiences love most about you?

Audiences love me for my TNA and naughty songs.

Q: What is your pre-show ritual?

I have a ritual of taking about 3 hours to either have hair and make-up done for me or DIY.

Q: What is your favorite physical feature on yourself?

My eyes.

Trixi Toxic
While according to her MySpace profile, she loves Autumn, Resident Evil, Zombies, Barbies, and Vampires–she apparently does not like email or interviews.

Upcoming Shows:
The Lollie Bombs next performance is The Valentine’s Show on February 12 & 13 at The Pocket Sandwich Theater. Call 214.821.1860 for reservations.

Three Lollies: Miss Malicious, Black Mariah, and Scarlette Switches will be performing in the Amour Show- A Lust Filled Burlesque Comedy- on February 27th at the Lakewood Theater. Call 214.821.7469 for tickets.

Notorious Model and Performer Angela Ryan graces the very first Best Of Pin Curl print edition, and sits down with editor Shoshana to discuss fashion, kindergarten, modeling mistakes, and a world without MySpace. Angela Ryan will be signing copies of our inaugural print issue at our Issue Release Party at Gifts and Garters on Dec 5th.

Interview & Photographs: Shoshana of Through the Looking Glass Studio

Q: What’s on your Christmas list this year?

Designer shoes and lingerie will always make me squeal with delight, but on the practical side I would love a new laptop and some new photo editing programs though.

Q: You began modeling before MySpace. How did you get you start?

I started back in 2001 working with a photographer friend and when I got enough photos I started a Yahoo Group. My fan base there grew and I started planning trips to other cities to shoot with well known photographers when I could. I was a cocktail waitress and worked retail and was miserable so I decided that I needed a change. I quit my jobs and started modeling full time in 2004. Luckily, it was the right decision! I love my job now!

Q: How have MySpace/FaceBook/Twitter changed the industry?

I credit MySpace with the real launch of my career. I signed up in 2003 and I don’t know where I would be without it! Social networking sites have changed the way you can promote yourself and make you accessible to millions of people. It’s much easier to make a name for yourself these days. On the down side, since anyone can make a profile claiming to be a “model” it saturates the industry with people who might not take it as a seriously as someone who solely models for a living. You still have to be creative in the way you market yourself to make sure you stand out. Since new sites pop up all the time you really have to be on top of the networking trends.

Q: You refer to yourself as a fetish and pin-up model. There seems there is a lot of crossover between the two in the industry. Are fetish and pin-up completely separate beasts, or do they go hand in hand?

I think for the most part they are separate but they definitely have some common interests. Traditional wardrobe pieces like fully fashioned stockings, garter belts, girdles, and high heels are staples in both
worlds. Many of the top fetish designers now recreate retro looks in latex that many pinup models wear. Bettie Page paved the way to make being both pinup AND fetish more acceptable. I have a love for both and I’m glad I don’t have to choose one above the other!

Q: Who are your favorite fashion designers right now?

For high fashion it’s Alexander McQueen, latex by House of Bias, corsets by Jupiter Moon, and lingerie by Agent Provocateur.

Q: You recently got into the design business yourself, with the Angela Ryan Signature Necklace by Heart Sized Crush. How did this come about. Tell us a little of the design process?

Heart Sized Crush made an adorable necklace for my good friend Devil Doll to sell on her tour. I fell in love with it and she suggested I contact them about making one for me. Since this was my first time designing anything it took a few drafts to come up with the perfect necklace but they were super easy to work with and very patient with me!

Q: In addition to the ton of modeling work, you are also an accomplished performer. How would you categorize your shows?

Burlesque with a fetish twist! I try to blend traditional with modern and always keep it sassy and unexpected! My choreographer Eric Hall works diligently with me on challenging myself technically and creatively and pushing boundaries!

Q: What are the top three mistakes young models and burlesque performers make?

Being unprofessional, caring too much what other people think, and working for less than they are worth. You have to use your mistakes as learning experiences.

Q: What did you want to be when you were in kindergarten?

Madonna. Seriously. That’s who I was every year for Halloween as a kid. I wanted to be a rock star. I still pretend I am sometimes. lol.

For more of the Angela Ryan Interview with tons of unseen photos, grab the Best of Pin Curl 2009 edition. You can purchase in our shop or even better-get an autographed copy at the Issue Release Party on Dec 5th!

Pin curl had the opportunity to visit with the Jigglewatts: Ruby Joule & Coco Lectric and talk assassins, Madonna, zombies, and baking.

Photo: Through the Looking Glass

Q: Who founded the Jigglewatts and how has the troupe evolved since its inception?

R: The Jigglewatts has three original founding members: Ruby Joule, Coco Lectric, and Cherry Zap. Coco brought along the Jigglewatts name from an earlier incarnation, which was the inspiration for the electrical theme of our names, and also spoke to our philosophy.  Since the troupe was founded, a handful of dancers have come and gone but we’ve remained small in number, keeping an exclusive “boutique troupe” feel. Because of this, we’ve moved away from the idea of group numbers, focusing instead on developing spectacular solos and engaging duets. 

CL: Before the Jigglewatts was a burlesque troupe it was a club I created for women to support each other in their endeavors and to appreciate how we’re all beautiful and unique. As a troupe we strive for these goals and really demonstrate how women who realize their unique beauty and sensuality can be powerful and inspiring. When we first started out we were still trying to find our niche. I was more serious about culturally inspired numbers that utilized my dance and gymnastics training. I also used to choreograph a lot more and we had more ensembles. Now we do a lot of solos and are very intense about our costume choices and engaging the audience instead of just hitting them over the head with our dance moves.
  
Q: Both of you have extensive dance and theater backgrounds. Can you give us the highlights?

R: Gosh, where to start?  I’ve been dancing since I could walk, and was on the prima ballerina career track until I had a serious foot injury as a teenager.  I couldn’t bear to leave the performing arts, so I transitioned into theatre and started learning other, less punishing forms of dance.  I have fond memories of performing with Ballet Austin in The Nutcracker and Snow White, and later as the “palest hula girl in town,” performing Tahitian and Polynesian dance for about 9 years.  I am particularly proud of originating the role of Eva in the musical, The Cafe du Cache, and following in Madonna’s footsteps to play Karen in Speed-the-Plow.  

CL: I began dance training at the age of 3 and began dancing professionally at the age of 14 in Houston. I performed with Ruby for years in the Austin area in the Polynesian arts, belly dancing and Afro-Caribbean styles. I began my professional choreography career in Austin where I was the house choreographer at Paradox Nightclub. Austin has known me as a featured dancer for years. As a vocalist I’ve performed with award winning band, Salsa Del Rio and toured Europe with an operatic choral group with top performers from the state of Texas. As a pop/R&B singer I performed with Liquid Stereo Project and co-produced and recorded as a solo artist on my album, Alive. My most notable film appearances have been as associate producer, choreographer, vocalist for the female lead in Z: A Zombie Musical and as Isabella Montoya in Green. I now teach Classic Striptease and Go-go Cardio and am coordinating the Austin Academy of Burlesque.

Q: In your opinions, what makes a “great” burlesque piece? What elements should it possess?

R: In my opinion, a great piece starts with a concept that is original or meaningful to the performer, and utilizes the elements of music, costuming, movement and stage presence to the fullest and most detailed extent possible to illustrate a story or transformation. As a spectator, none of these elements can be a weak link, or the act falls like a bad soufflé!

CL: In addition to what Ruby mentioned, a great burlesque piece is all about what makes the performer tick. She has to really look like she’s enjoying herself, like there’s nowhere in the world she’d rather be. I also love watching performances that have a little twist or a well thought out theme.
  
Q: Many of your signature numbers involve elaborate costumes and props that add to the glamour. Can you describe your creative process in developing a new number? How much of the prop and costuming is yourselves, and how much is commissioned?

R: For me, the creative process can be sparked by anything- a theme show, a character I want to portray, a song I just HAVE to dance to or a special prop I want to play with.  Then it seems to come together in bits and pieces, like a jigsaw puzzle.  I make (or repurpose) all of my props and costumes.  It’s one of the parts of the process I enjoy most, plus I like having complete creative control over the finished product.

CL: So far all of my props and costumes have been created by me, or have been fashioned from something that already exists. Jupiter Moon Corsets recently made me a fabulous cocoa colored ensemble that I’m working into a signature Coco solo. New numbers or themes pop into my head several times a day. Sometimes a theme of a show will inspire a new number, for example, at Gifts and Garters where I’ll BE a gift from Tiffany’s. I find myself wanting to BE something non-human like a pony or a tangerine, I’m working on a cobra number and a dragonfly number, now. Lovers, friends, family and the politico-social climate inspire my numbers quite often, but I’ve got to keep some things a secret, right?
 
Q: Speaking of glamour, our cover shoot is having fun with image of an over the top glamour girl as the image of burlesque, and has you ladies baking in the kitchen in fabulous dresses. Do either of you ladies actually cook? What are your contributions to your Thanksgiving spreads this year?

R: Ha!  I’ll let Miss Coco handle this one, as I do not cook! At Thanksgiving feasts, I’m usually relegated to bringing the relish tray.

CL: When I do cook, it’s to die for. But–I’ll let you in on a little secret — I hate to clean. I love to cook, but I hate to clean the gigantic mess that accompanies a delicious meal. My Czech grandmother taught me to make all kinds of pastries and jams, and a close friend taught me how to make some traditional Chinese dishes, but for the most part I like to discover food on my own. I made Thanksgiving dinner a few years ago and people are still raving over it. I’ll bring the turkey, dressing and gravy if they let me this year.

  
Q: Recently, Dallas has had the privilege of seeing a lot more of you lovely ladies. Each of you has performed at various Bewitching Burlesque events as well as Dallas Burlesque Festival and Hot Rods and Heels. How does the Austin burlesque scene different from the Dallas scene?

R:  The Dallas Burlesque scene is so exciting in its rapidly blossoming growth! I love coming to Dallas to perform because the shows are such bombastic events and there is a feeling of mutual respect and support for every role in the burlesque community, from dancers to producers, photographers and designers.  The Austin entertainment scene is saturated with talented artists trying to be noticed, so it can be quite competitive as we are pitted against theatre, indie film, live music and myriad other entertainment choices every time we perform. Perhaps for this reason, Austin has been a great place to hone professional, attention-getting acts.

CL: Dallas really knows how to appreciate local talent when it sees it. You all are very good business people and on top of your game in entrepreneurship. Austin is more a town of artists with far fewer business people in the arts, but that part is growing. We are all on our own, in a way, but like Ruby said, there are so many of us. People come from all over the world to live in Austin for that very reason and there are more bands and performers than I could ever hear about in town. I’m so proud to be a part of the longest active burlesque troupe in town.
 
Q: Ruby Joule, you’ve been working a lot as an actor lately, and even jokingly referred to yourself as the “music video queen”. What acting projects do you have in the works currently?

R:  Haha, that’s right!  I love working on music videos because they are often quick shoots and can be very creative.  Up next, I am pleased to report that I’ll be appearing as “Midge” in the feature film, “A Mind of its Own,” which will be shooting in Dallas in late 2009. In it, I play the main character’s co-worker, a fiery redhead from Scotland.  Winning this role was quite a feather in my cap, as I hear they auditioned in Texas and LA before making their final decision.
 
Q: Are you switching your focus from burlesque to acting?

R: This burlesque adventure has actually marked a grand detour from my acting career.  The aspect of burlesque that had me hooked was the ability to cast myself in any role I felt like dreaming up! No waiting around for a good character to come along, auditioning, and hoping the director likes you.  It’s DIY from start to finish, with complete creative control. However, while I love the art of burlesque dearly, I’ve realized that for me its scope is limited.  I wouldn’t say that I’m switching my focus as much as trying to find a happy balance between burlesque, legit film and stage, and modeling while keeping it all in perspective.  A lofty goal when there are still only 24 hours in a day! 
  
Q: Miss Coco Lectric, you recently stared in an ass kicking martial arts film. Tell us a little about your character?

My character is an assassin in a futuristic sci-fi action film. She’s caught in the crosshairs of a scandal between warring factions in the not so far future in the United States. She’s trying to find herself and avenge the death of her father. I loved doing this film. Isabella and I are very similar only she gets to beat people up all day and she has to lay low. Coco doesn’t lay low.
 
Q: Though you’ve done film and television as well, your love affair with burlesque is your main focus. What is it that has you so captivated?

CL: Burlesque combines dance, music, singing, acting, costuming, modeling and playing dress up; why am I so captivated? But really, burlesque is an art that has the ability to inspire and heal people at a deep level. Women have been given so many mixed messages regarding their bodies and their sensuality, and for that reason many women are unhappy with themselves. Burlesque gives me an opportunity to show a healthy and fun portrayal of sensuality and the beauty of diversity. As a performer I’ve always made an attempt to make the audience feel special, happy, and alive. Burlesque gives me that opportunity. The audience reaction is such an integral part of the show, they are all a part of it. It’s truly an honor to be able to share even just a few moments with everyone in the crowd.
 
Q: The last six months have been successful and busy; we’ve found you ladies in Las Vegas, Dallas, New Orleans, Austin, and Los Angeles! Being able to be a part of so many fabulous events, and finding yourself surrounded by so many amazing performers has to been inspiration as well as informative. What’s the biggest pearl of wisdom you’ve taken to heart in recent months?

R: For me, it has been inspiring to greet those mythical places and people who previously only existed in my remote imagination; The Viper Room, Marilyn’s handprints, Catherine D’Lish, Jo Boobs… they have shown me that perhaps the world is smaller and friendlier than I once thought.

CL: I’ve found that, no matter where we perform, audiences want to be enchanted. When we get up on the stage and dazzle audiences they are more than willing to accept the escape from their every day lives. I can’t help but want to create a more and more spectacular numbers.

 
Q: It is human nature to always want bigger and better. What does 2010 hold for the Jigglewatts, both as a troupe, and as individuals?

R:  We’re continually dreaming up ideas for “our next big show” with the troupe; perhaps one of those ideas will be brought to fruition.  We have both been invited to perform at the Southwest Burlesque Festival in New Mexico, and I plan to make as many stops on the festival circuit as possible.  I would also love to devote more energy to helping our younger Jigglewatts develop their burlesque presence and refine their acts.

CL: As a troupe we are working toward producing more shows in the Austin and San Antonio area and getting our name and reputation for quality performances out there. The Jigglewatts have a very high standard of quality when it comes to performances, we work very hard at what we do and that should continue. We’re always learning about ways we can improve, so traveling will also be in store for us next year. As a solo artist I plan to keep trying to outdo myself as a performer and costumer. I also am looking forward to teaching more burlesque workshops and classes on the road. I’ve taken in upon myself to create more of a classic burlesque presence in San Antonio–it’s a risk–but burlesque is important to me.
 
Q: What would be your dream performance?

R:My dream performance would involve a stage in Europe, a large prop of some kind; crescent moon, swing, champagne glass, or maybe a disco ball that I “hatch” out of, and a live orchestra… all of this wrapped up in a well-produced film.  I’d also love to play Mistinguett (legendary star of the Moulin Rouge) in a film about her life.  A girl can dream, right?

CL: Every time I dream up something I try to make it happen. I’m working toward being a Broadway performer later in life, but for now I want a big stage, big props, and big smiles in the audience.

Catch Ruby Joule & Coco Lectric at these upcoming events:
 
R: Dec 5: Gifts & Garters, Feb 2010: SW Burlesque Fest.  (Filming in Nov)

CL: I will be filming a couple of movies in November, will be in the next issue of Bachelor Pad, performing in Chicago on November 12th a the Blue Bayou and Vaudezilla Presents The Absolut Comedy Show + Punk Rock Red Carpet on November 14th, performing in Gifts and Garters on December 5th, and The Southwest Burlesque Festival February 20. 

Austin based Burlesque Entertainer Erin Go Braughless talks drag queens, comic books, and being hot.

Q: You recently won the title of “most outrageous” in your luche libre costume that made audiences roar with laughter. We think outrageous is a great way to describe the over the top hilarity of your burlesque numbers. Have you always been a comedian of sorts?

Believe it or not, I am actually a really quiet person.  I think backstage at shows, people a lot of times think that I am rude, but in truth, I am super shy!  Once people get to know me though, I open up and become a totally different person and I have a really citric sense of humor and act pretty outrageous all of the time.  I also think it helps that I work full-time year round at Lucy In Disguise with Diamonds, an over the top costume shop in Austin, read comic books, watch professional wrestling several times a week, worship drag queens, and wear over the top fashions most days of the week.
 
Q: In your submission to Pin Curl, you wrote ” [I] give the audience just what they came for- a close and personal encounter with the endangered species of the confident woman.” We were taken by this. In your opinion, why is the confident woman an endangered species?

I think that most women are so caught up in being hotter or thinner or younger that we forget to take a look in the mirror today and go “damn I look good”.  You hear women say all the time “when I was 17 I thought I was so awkward and ugly, but now looking back, I was a real Bettie”, so my goal is to always find something that I love about the way I look that day.  Sometimes I have a breakout so I focus on my hair, or on a bad hair day I focus on my awesome rack, so I always feel confident and sexy; I don’t ever want to look back and feel like I missed out on a single experience because of my own insecurities.
 
Q: Your email signature includes your self-given title “Big Fat Burlesque Queen”. In a society that frowns upon the word “fat”, you have chosen to embrace it. Why do you choose “fat” instead of gentler words like “plump”, or “full-figured”?

Fat is just what I am.  To me saying you are offended by the word fat is the same as being offended by the words short or blonde.  I am all of those things and I don’t call myself “flaxen haired” or “vertically challenged”, I don’t call myself fluffy, chubby, or anything else.  I also choose to use the word fat because when you use it, it is impossible for others to use it against you as a weapon.  I am fat.  I always have been.  I always will be.  I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Q: You are a founding member of “Big Star Burlesque”. Tell us more about the founding and mission of BSB.

Our founder is Blue Valentine and she was inspired to create BSB after seeing the Fat Bottom Revue in San Francisco.  She came back to Austin and started an all plus-sized troupe to help inspire and empower plus-sized women all over Texas.  After Blue moved to San Antonio to found Stars and Garters Burlesque, I took over our troupe and have been carrying on the mission of empowering women of all shapes and sizes through dance, strip tease, and soaking up the spot light.  Myself and the other girls feel a huge sense of responsibility in carrying on the mission and ideas and she set forth in our founding.

Q: Do you find that there is a smaller audience for a troupe of bigger gals, as opposed to a more diverse troupe?

I think that we tend to draw in a crowd that appreciates full figured women as we often perform at functions that are for plus-sized women and their fans.  I also think that we draw in a lot of first timers because we have a gimmick, and if there is one thing you need in show business, its a gimmick!

Q: You recently started the Erin Go Braughless School of Burlesque. What are the top three things you would like your students to learn from your classes?

1. Anyone can twirl tassels
2. There is a big drag goddess in all of us
3. Fat girls take up more room in the spotlight

Since going solo a year ago, Dallas’ Rose Darling has been performing everywhere from Chicago to New Orleans, while still saving some time for Dallas. Rose talks geeks, Batman, and the pervertazzi.

Interview & photographs: Shoshana of Through the Looking Glass

Q: You have been solo a little less than a year now, yet you’ve had some amazing opportunities already! What are some of your most memorable accomplishments to date and why?

The way things keep going, my last accomplishment becomes the most memorable. I keep getting involved in more and more exciting things. My last now being the New Orleans Burlesque Fest. My first festival and my first time in New Orleans. And I got to perform, not only at the House of Blues, but in New Orleans, for a burlesque festival. How cool is that? I was so lucky to be chosen and have a chance to meet all the people I’ve been watching perform on YouTube in awe and see them perform in real life!
 
Q: Some of your performances and appearances have a comical super hero slant to them. Do you have an inner geek? (I use geek in the sexiest way)

I don’t think it’s quite considered an inner geek, as soon as you meet me I think most people figure that out. hah!

And to be honest, this whole sexy thing came way later than the geek thing. Don’t get me wrong, I loved playing dress-up when I was little, but I was brought up by computer programmers. It’s in my blood to be geeky. In fact, I’ll be making an homage to that side of me in a future dance. My friend Chris was joking that if I was a Goonies character, I would be the Asian kid (Data) with all the gadgets. Haha!

I’ve done a Barbarella number, as you know, cause Barbarella is just awesome. She’s in space, has limitless amounts of costume changes and she’s hot. Sounds perfect for a burlesque number to me! The Ms. Marvel themed Dr. Sketchy’s I got volunteered for, not that I’m complaining! When I was a model for a figure drawing class in college, there was this one guy that would always draw me as a superhero. I think my figure leans towards those superhero woman, you know: tall, big boobies.

 
Q: If you were a superhero, who would you be? What would your name be- what powers would you have?

My favorite superhero is Batman, he’s kinda James Bond like. Suave with lots of gadgets (see a trend here?). As far as me being a superhero, well I can’t tell you my superhero name for the sake of being caught by the evil villains that are trying to stop my do-gooding ways. My powers would to be able to transport myself anywhere at any time. Make clones of myself that will do my work for me (so I can do more important things like, you know, saving the world). And being able to see through people’s clothing so I can see them naked. Hot.
  
Q: What was one thing that really inspired you during your New Orleans experience, or one big lesson you learned?

There are many lessons I’ve learned, some from watching others, some from my own experiences. What I’m really working on now is connecting with the audience. When I was watching the Queen of Burlesque competition in New Orleans, the ones that impressed me the most where the ones that connected with the audience. There is something about that. Me, personally, while I was in the audience felt like I was being held up by the little pinky of whomever was dancing. If you looked at my face I would have had this happy spacey grin. I was connected.
  
Q: After performing in several US cities including Chicago, New Orleans, and Dallas, are their regional trends you have spotted or observations you have made about the different communities?

Every city has the pervertazzi! I can’t really say there was a trend in each city. All girls have their own influences and flavors.
 
Q: You can have dinner with any five people, past or present, who do you choose and why?

Lauren Bacall she’s a sharp talking badass with class.
Tom Robbins (an author) he would be cracking dirty jokes to keep me laughing but stimulating the conversation at the same time.
Paul Pope for those who do not know him, he’s my favorite comic book writer/illustrator but he’s also thoughtful and well read.
Dorothy Parker she’s another sharp talking BAWC (I think you know my type now).
Don Draper (ok I’m doing imaginary, too) I don’t think I need to explain this.
 
Q: What does the future hold for Rose Darling? Any upcoming projects we should know about?

I would like do more out of town gigs. I was also thinking about keeping the trend of applying to burlesque festivals in cities I’ve never been to. Bonjour Montreal!

New Orleans-based burlesque superstar Perle Noire discusses her Miss Exotic World titles, Josephine Baker, wardrobe malfunctions, and how Hurricane Katrina changed her life.

Interview: Divertida Devotchka Photographs: Shoshana, Through the Looking Glass Studio

How long have you been performing?

I’ve been performing since I could speak and walk as an actress, singer and of course I loved to dance around whenever I got the chance. Although I’m not formally trained, I still have such a passion for being onstage.

How long have you been involved with Bustout Burlesque?

I’ve been involved with Bustout Burlesque ever since Hurricane Katrina.

What made you decide to get involved in burlesque?

I fell in love with burlesque when I discovered Josephine Baker. Her story was so fascinating to me that I vowed to perform a tribute to her one day. So I started doing research on other burlesque queens and tried to find shows to audition for. The women seemed so empowered and free. I loved how glamorous and confident they looked. In New Orleans there was a burlesque musical called Backstage at Da Fonky Burlesk, and after performing in this musical I knew that I was meant to be a burlesque performer.

Burlesque is widely interpreted and means something different to many people. What is your definition of burlesque?

The definition is “to make a spectacle of” and I love that. Burlesque is not about taking off your clothes. True burlesque is about showmanship and creativity.

Tell me about your best moment(s) as a burlesque performer.

My audition for Bustout Burlesque was great because I met Dollie Rivas and Rick Delaup and that was the moment that sent off a chain reaction to my burlesque career. This moment followed winning Best Debut [at Miss Exotic World 2008] which lead me to London to perform in The Tease show with the mighty Immodesty Blaize, Kalani [Kokonuts] and Catherine D’Lish. Now I’m speaking with you as the Second Runner-Up Miss Exotic World 2009.

Do you have a worst burlesque moment or embarrassing story (wardrobe malfunction, accident, injury, etc.)?

I’ve been known to lose a pastie.

Tell me all about your experience at Miss Exotic World. What are your aspirations for next year?

I had such an amazing time at Miss Exotic World. Everyone in the community has been so helpful and kind to me. I remember when they called my name last year for Best Debut, I was in shock. It’s such an honor to perform on the stage and I still can’t believe I won at Exotic World twice. I really hope to become a burlesque queen one day.

Who is/are your inspiration(s)?

I’m so inspired by Josephine Baker, she was so ground breaking. I love to watch other performers; they inspire me all the time. I love the queens and upcoming queens such as Immodesty Blaize, Kalani Kokonuts, Catherine D’Lish, Dirty Martini and so many more.

What do you know about the history of burlesque in New Orleans, and what impact (if any) does that history have on what you do today?

New Orleans Burlesque was so vital to the burlesque scene. Bourbon Street was famous for its burlesque legends such as Wild Cherry. I’ve had the honor of performing on Bourbon Street and I’ve worked with Wild Cherry. The stories she’s told me about Bourbon Street, well you’ll have to ask her yourself.

Tell me all about the New Orleans Burlesque Festival. What are you most looking forward to about the weekend?

I’m so excited about the festival! It’s the first burlesque festival to feature a LIVE BAND! I’m competing for the title and I have to say, I’m extremely nervous. I can’t wait to watch everyone backed by a live band.

Were you there during Hurricane Katrina, and if so, what impact did it have on your life and/or your involvement in burlesque at that time? Would you say that New Orleans has now “fully recovered” or do you think there are any areas that may never recover?

I was in New Orleans for Hurricane Katrina and I lost everything. This event made me more determined to live my life and pursue my dreams because everything really can change in the blink of an eye. The New Orleans Burlesque Fest is proof that New Orleans is recovering.

What do you like to do when you’re not performing, rehearsing, etc.?

When I’m not performing I’m working on performing again. I contact shows about performing as a guest performer and audition for plays.

Anything you’d like to add?

I would really like to thank all the burlesque queens before me. Thanks for taking a chance and opening up so many doors. The burlesque community has accepted me with open arms and I’m truly grateful.

Editor’s Note:
All Photos taken at the Victorian House Bed & Breakfast on Rampart. www.victorianhousenola.com The staff was very hospitiable, the building was beautiful and has a rich history (it is over 100 years old, and after being a private residence, it had a run as a brothel beginning in the 1930s, before becoming the beautiful bed and breakfast it is today). I highly recommend The Victorian House to any NOLA visitors.

During our shoot, while sipping a vodka, sprite, and soda, Miss Perle Noir shared her infalliable Hangover Cure with me:
Two Pepto fast tabs (the melty kind, not the shaken kind) dropped into a glass of Sprite (Coke will do). Drink while still drunk, before you hit the pillow. Perle swears by it!

Dallas legend Black Mariah, who will be performing next at Bewitching Burlesque’s Mid Summer Masquerade on August 8th, sits down to talk White Lightnin’, Jabberwockies, full-figured gals, and complacency.

Interview & Photographs by Shoshana of Through the Looking Glass Studio

Most Texans met you as “Black Mariah of the Lollie Bombs”, but you have been performing for many years, prior to moving to the Lone Star State. Can you tell us about your burlesque beginnings?

I started performing as a soloist in Tennessee. I was going to do burlesque on a stage or else! So I got in touch with a couple of friends who ran a Gothic club night at a local venue, and I debuted at their Halloween show. At that time, no one was performing burlesque in the area. I was, however, slightly nervous when I realized that there was no one else booked to perform that night. Instead of being part of a much larger show, I WAS the show!

I did not disappoint and became hooked on the rush of performing burlesque. I did a couple more solo performances and along came a good friend with a great idea to start White Lightnin’ Burlesque, Knoxville’s first modern burlesque dance troupe. I moved to Dallas about a Year after the troupe started which made me very sad to leave my close knit sisters. I was lucky the Lollies snatched me up as soon as I got here.  
  
With all of the recent growth of burlesque, the mentor relationship becomes very important. Can you describe that relationship for us?

I did not have a mentor when I began. I’m pretty sure I was the first in my town (with the exception of the burlesque shows performed in the 30’s and 40’s) to forge a path for burlesque in the definition we see it now. I do mentor, because I don’t want to see performers have to take the long route, when I have all the information to help them get started.

Beginners should look for qualities in a mentor that we would look for in a mentor of any industry. The qualities should reflect not only a positive and uplifting personality, but also consistency in their interpersonal relationships with other in the community. Good mentors have great relationships in the community and are not prone to breaking deals, or burning bridges. Good mentors also have enough performances and experience in their pocket that they can advise an up and coming performer about potential obstacles and pitfalls. Hopefully a potential mentor can also introduce her budding debutant to other professionals so they can share advice as well.

Can you describe your creative process from seed to stage?

I get tons of ideas. I often write them down in an idea book. I chew on the idea while, to make sure that the idea wasn’t a fleeting interest and it is strong enough to transcend more than one show. All of my numbers have to be something I can perform on almost any stage and be appropriate for almost any type of show. I get a concept of either the music or the costume and make sure this is something tangible, physically practical and affordable. Large props or large amounts of props are often a recipe for disaster. I keep in mind that at any point, I may be the sole person carrying the costumes and props in for my performance. I want nothing bigger than I can handle on my own.
 
You are known for your fan routines, which many view as more classic burlesque, but often use more edgy modern music. How do you describe your style?

Neo- Burlesque. As I understand, Neo- Burlesque is the modern spin on burlesque utilizing modern music and dance styles or costuming but taking it off like the old days. With “classic” burlesque, the performances are defined as performances utilizing music or a live band playing music from the era of the 30-50s, with classic costumes, props, and choreography. Classic performers look like they stepped out of any of those eras without any indication of the new millennium being an influence.
 
Who are your burlesque idols?

Dita Von Teese. She was the first performer I saw and her grace and beauty made me want to do this. When I had the chance to meet her and tell her how she changed my life, she was so kind! She was so humble and sweet. She is one of the nicest celebrities I have ever met, not to mention the most stunningly beautiful!

Dirty Martini is also a personal hero for me. She is extremely curvy and confident. Her performances are always very unique, and her facial expressions are just animated and perfect.  

 
Many fans are in awe of your amazing performances and your ability to really connect with the audience. Many women also find inspiration in the fact that you are a full figured gal. What advice can you offer to larger ladies who may be struggling with accepting their beauty?

I wasn’t a full figured girl all my life. I was lean when I was younger, and at one point in my 20s I lost a LOT of weight, nearly 80 pounds down to a size 10. I look at pictures from that time in my life and you would think I would be happier then, but I wasn’t- I thought I looked sick. There was nothing wrong with me, but I just don’t think “thin” was a good look for me.

I don’t think I really felt good about the way I looked until I made the decision to become a burlesque dancer. I was out of shape and knew I needed to get into shape (notice I did not say “lose weight”) to be happy with how I looked on stage. Confidence begins within. I wanted to tone up and not only be healthy but look healthy. And just so you readers know, I don’t think I could have possibly gotten much smaller at the Size 10. Females are not all engineered to be a size 0-2 at our lowest body fat capacity. Don’t buy into that.

If I have learned anything at all from being in the burlesque scene, it is that low self esteem is not reserved for the full figured gal. Body image issues are across the board more equally than people realize. I think people assume larger girls must be self conscious because our “flaw” is obvious to the superficial. Truth is women who do not have to fret over their body mass index can easily find anything else they don’t like about themselves.
 
Do you feel an extra obligation to represent plus size gals?

Yes. Don’t get me wrong, I would love to fit into designer dresses and have thighs that don’t jiggle, but I just cannot connect with my audience if I am not being true to myself. I am thankful that I am a larger girl but I want to be a healthy full figured girl. I want to inspire women to love themselves for who they are and take care of their bodies. I feel like I am blessed with a unique platform to inspire young women to become the best each one of them can be.
 
You are a Renaissance woman, in that your art is not exclusively in your performances; you also are known for your pin-up modeling, costume and pasties design, as well as your graphic design abilities in creating beautifully whimsical Lollie Bombs flyers.  How has art transformed (or formed) your life?

Art is my life. I get inspiration from every opportunity and experience in my life. I feel inspiration and share the energy from seeing other’s creativity come to life. I become excited like a little kid when I find something that really speaks to me. I can watch the JabbawockeeZ dance, and be just as excited and inspired as I can watching a documentary about birds.

I am more appreciative of creativity and the hard work it takes to achieve iconic success when my eyes and mind are open to love the art.

What does the future hold for Black Mariah? Any upcoming performances or projects we should know about?

You will be seeing a lot more solo performances around town. I will always be a Lollie Bomb first, but I am also working on getting into the Burlesque Festivals and experiencing that aspect of the business. The performers that make it into the festival shows are stunning, and have amazing routines. I will be working on some big debuts this year that will give nod to the burlesque legends, as well as carve a niche in bigger and better performances. My greatest fear is becoming complacent in this business. Once you become complacent, you become mediocre and obsolete.

Black Mariah will be performing at Bewitching Burlesque August 8th at the Plaza Arts Center, and with the Lollie Bombs at the Pocket Sandwich theatre August 21st and 22nd for a Breast Cancer Awareness benefit.