The multi-talented Kitten on the Keys sits down to talk New Orleans, Cannes Film Festival, red carpet shenanigans, skinny-dipping, Satan’s Angel, interpretive dance for the Lord, and her favorite moments in her performing career.

By: Divertida Devotchka   Photos: Larry Utley

First and foremost, major congratulations are in order for being featured with Cabaret New Burlesque in the French film “Tournée” which recently won Best Director for Mathieu Amalric at the 63rd Annual Cannes Film Festival! Did you have any inkling that the film was going to be so well received? What was your reaction when the award was announced?

TOURNEE won the Foreign Press Award and Best Director for Mathieu Amalric! What a gracious gent; he flew us back from Paris to Cannes so we could join him onstage when he won the award. He’s a class act, that Mathieu.  I had no idea what a big deal his film would be! I feel very grateful to be a part of it all. Honestly, I still pinch myself. It was a true Cinderella going to the ball dealie. Mathieu’s project had been in the works for a LONG time. He had been scouting dancers at Teaseorama , NY Burlesque Fest, and other venues- he did his research. When I first heard of his screenplay in 2007 I was convinced he was going to “borrow” the acts and personas of the cast of Cabaret New Burlesque and have skinny French actresses who smoke too much learn our schticks. But no- Mathieu is a true artist who wanted to harness raw talent. The French love the film with its mountains of inner turmoil. I have the photos to prove I was there in Cannes and it TRULY does not seem real! (I did a lot of OH MY GODS and WOWS.)

You walked the red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival along with your cohorts Dirty Martini, Julie Atlas Muz, Mi Mi le Meaux, Evie Lovelle and Roky Roulette, correct? Care to share your red carpet experience with us?

Well, I had to double-Spanx my womanly bulges that night. (Felt like I had my thighs and lady bits in a medieval torture device. Ouch!)  I am so proud of my burlesque pals and I am very grateful I had this experience because nothing like this will ever happen to me again! We all had our own red carpet styles. I was going for a 1930’s bias cut look, Mi Mi was sophisticated, Dirty went Mrs. Roper, Julie forgot her panties, Evie was a goddess and Roky ROCKED it! We were very popular! The French Minister of Culture told us we were the hit of the Film Festival! WOW! We went to lunches on yachts and partied in a castle.

Did I tell you Tim Burton was the head juror for the Festival? I heart his blue-tinted nerd glasses and he hearted us. The Paparazzi were a bunch of swarming mosquitoes; they travel in packs like wild dogs! I have never seen so many HUGE lenses barking up my tree.  As award winners -we went to many fancy dinners in swellagant pricey hotels. On one occasion, after appetizers of salty peanuts and Pringles we found ourselves eating dinner next to George Lucas! (He has a wombat on his head.) Benicio Del Toro meowed at me for a couple days and took a real shine to leading lady Mi Mi le Meaux. I shared styling tips with Kirsten Dunst (she was in head to toe Chanel) in the ladies lounge and drooled over Javier Bardem backstage at the awards ceremony! I stared at Salma Hayek and marveled just how awesome her bodacious curves are (my geriatric punk rock boyfriend has a thing for her cleavage).

In the retro chic Villa where we stayed in Cannes I had one of the silliest ménage a trios times rooming with Evie Lovelle and Roky Roulette. I laughed so hard my sides ached and I do believe I piddled at some point. Our orange and blue Brady Bunch-meets-Evel Knievel wall paper and matching pillow shams hurt my eyes. I knicked a roll of designer chi chi hot pink toilet paper from the outhouse on the Croisette. (Don’t tell Interpol.)

We’re so excited to hear that you’re the “femcee” for the 2nd Annual New Orleans Burlesque Festival’s Queen of Burlesque showcase on September 18 at Harrah’s New Orleans. How was your experience last year at the festival? What are you looking forward to the most this year?

The New Orleans Burlesque Festival was one of the highlights of my performing year 2009. I am thrilled to be returning! Having a live band back the Queen of Burlesque Contest was sensational! I am a second generation burlesque musician – I started my career in burlesque singing and playing piano in a burlesque band in San Francisco so this means a lot to me! Live music is such a treat.

There are so many fabulous performers this year- and I LOVE hearing the legends celebrate this classic form of adult entertainment. I love the swampy and swarthy mysterious air of New Orleans. Plus I can’t wait to see Satan’s Angel burn the place down! Katrina? Oil Spills? Voodoo? Hell, Satan’s coming to visit! Between the 2 A.M. skinny-dipping with Catherine D’Lish and Evie Lovelle and the 24-hour access to chicory coffee and beignets at Café Du Mond, how can a gal go wrong? (I have a nudity and sugar problem.)

You have several songs featured on the soundtrack to Tournée, as well as several solo releases. How and where can our readers purchase your music?

Pinch me some more! OUCH! Yes, I am lucky to be in the Tournée Soundtrack. Kitten butchers Aerosmith and Radiohead! I have copies of the French Import CD available for $17.00 including shipping and handling within the United States. I cannot believe I have so many musical offerings out now! I have several DIY CDs available on CD Baby and iTUNES.

Being bi-polar comes in handy while putting together tunes to record- a little bit cabaret, a pinch of punk rock, some flapperosity and a heapin’ helping of ballsy blues. My CDs, “Kitty Muffins,” “(It’s Not A) Pretty Princess Day,” and “Salty Meat Girl” are all online. I have 2 other CDs but they are sold out! (If you bribe me with shiny things I can make ‘em available!) (For more info: kittykeys@aol.com, Paypal accepted. For our European pals, Amazon.fr and iTUNES.fr carry the Tournée Soundtrack.)

Unless I’m mistaken, you’ll be returning to France with Cabaret New Burlesque this October, correct? What other upcoming events and projects are you currently planning?

Yes, the Show Cabaret New Burlesque with the latest cast returns to France in October 2010! Delighted Kitty Hartl is bringing us back to France! Le Lieu Unique is a cultural center in Nantes, France, which is where the original show started back in 2004.  At one point some of the cast had a 3-month residency there so I hope to run into a lot of familiar faces! I am working up some new songs, like “Madame Marajuana,” something I hope everyone can relate to! I am having a super duper time putting together obscure and fun earworms to perform at a variety of piano bars in San Francisco and beyond. I am also working on the set list and busting open my piggy bank to record my next CD.

Please tell us all about your one woman show.

“Does This Piano Make My Ass Look Big?”is the title of my one woman show, full of songs! sequins! sass! I have had one wacky carnival ride of a life full of a variety of oddball characters and A.D.D.-addled adventures. This more-or-less autobiographical show is based on songs I have written over a period of years. My three female role models Alice Cooper, Freddie Mercury and Liberace help me out through the tough times. A magical litter box of HOPE flies from the sky and allows me to purge and bury my problems. Several videos portray the different stages in my life played by a variety of San Francisco underground musicians. Sample story lines include:

When I was young I was in an interpretive dance troupe for the Lord. We were called the Earthen Vessels. Our brown leotards infuriated the Church Elders. When the air conditioning was on full blast our budding nubile breasts were a little too happy for Jesus.

I was in a band called Sugar Baby Doll with Courtney Love. During a drug fest she tried to rip my jewelry off and put ice cubes up my rear.

I am a second-generation burlesque musician. My father, drummer Oz Ramsey, was born cross-eyed. He left home at the age of 15 in order to pay off a debt to a band leader who had paid for an operation to correct his vision. My daddy was the youngest guy in the jazz trio on the Midwest Burlesque Circuit, accentuating the bumps and grinds of the dancers. He has some truly bizarre tales that include nude women, trained birds, jokester musicians and some mineral oil-laced bird seed.

Your bio states that you perform regularly with various San Francisco Bay area circus troupes. How did you get your start in the circus show circuit?

My hustle in SF is to be as varied as possible-I consider myself a VARIETY ARTIST. I play several instruments in a bunch of styles and have a crazy wardrobe to boot! We have the world famous CIRCUS CENTER in San Francisco and I have been hooked up with different producers for several years. One of my close pals runs Velocity Circus in SF; I am the Ring Mistress, A Singing Life-size Barbie Doll, Accordionist, and I accompany contortion and aerial acts with classical piano. I often work with sword-swallowers, geeks, fire breathers and I stilt walk/roller skate and play accordion and ukulele- anything for a buck! Vau De Vire Society- a circus/performance hybrid, has hosted me a few times. We did VeGoose in Las Vegas and Outside Lands Rock Festival in a 1909 Belgium Speigeltent last summer.

I had the privilege of seeing you play piano for jazz legend Little Jimmy Scott at the Burlesque Hall of Fame weekend in 2009. It was an incredibly moving show. What are some of your most memorable performing experiences in your career?

Playing for Jimmy Scott was a religious experience- glad you enjoyed it!  Luke Littlel made that happen. I feel so lucky! I truly value my elders and all I can learn from them. I was an untrained music “therapist” in rest homes. That was such a cool job! Here is a quick list of some memorable gigs:

Always LOVE working with Baby Doe and Teaseorama.

I did PLAYBOY radio in L.A. with Catherine D’Lish and Dita.

Performing in Birmingham, U.K. at the Candy Box Burlesque.

Co-emceeing a Burlesque Show on a boat in Helsinki with Finland’s Queer Fear Factor Winner.

“Meating” Ron Jeremy at a gig while dressed as a pig.

Having Roky Roulette deep throat my chocolate pudding-covered  foot while singing my song about toe sucking called “Bare My Sole.”

I was tongue tied while interviewing Tura Satana on stage at Exotic World in the Old Days. Interviewing Liz Renay and Ricci Cortez was such a treat too! Calling those special ladies on the phone and chatting for HOURS is something I will treasure forever!

Going on tour with the DAMNED with Missy Malone and Mi Mi le Meaux all throughout the U.K. and Ireland.

Performing in The Wau Wau Sisters show in Edinburgh, Scotland.

Having the members of Mini Kiss slap my ass to my song “Leather Daddy” in France at the Isle De Nantes Festival.

Opening up for the scatological Extreme Elvis and picking up my pay the next day. (He is notorious for using “body fluids” in his shows.)

Playing piano and glockenspiel for Dr. Elmo (of “Grandma Got Ran Over By A Reindeer” Fame. It’s the #1 Christmas Song in the U.S. for 25 or more years; it beats out “White Christmas” all the time.)He still does not know the words or chords even though he has made MILLIONS from recording this one song.

Touring with Devotchka and Catherine D’Lish in 2003’s Burlesquefest .

David J from Bauhaus has me play David Bowie songs for him to sing to sometimes and he had me perform for his wife’s birthday. I was terrified of pissing off the elders but her Mom kept copping a feel and told me I had a nice “bum”.

Madame Mystere of New Orleans’ Fleur de Tease sits down to talk burlesque style diversity, inspiration, New Orleans Burlesque Festival, absinthe, bacon and Viva Dallas Burlesque.

By Divertida Devotchka

You’ve been a dancer since the age of three. What was your first experience with dance and in which styles of dance do you have experience?

My first memories of dance are of being in class.  I had wonderful teachers growing up; they made me fall in love with it.  We had a big recital every summer and it was something I really looked forward to, more than anything else all year.  The stage, the lights, the costumes, the dancing, the applause!  The bulk of my dance training is in ballet, tap, and jazz, with abbreviated training in modern, lyrical, clogging, hip-hop, musical theater, Irish step dancing, and belly dancing.  I love it all.

You moved to New Orleans from the Midwest in 2002, and by 2003 you had started your burlesque career. How exactly did you get started?

My fiancé and I were living uptown and our neighborhood bar was also a laundromat!  So we would go there to do our laundry and hang out and we became friends with the staff there.  One day the manager said she was going to start a burlesque troupe and wanted me to be in it, and I was like, “what’s that?”  Well, she went on to explain a bit and I thought “oh no, I can’t do that.  I can’t take my clothes off in front of people, but I’ll still come to the shows.”  So my fiancé was their stage manager and I helped with whatever I could and cheered them on every week.  After a while it became harder and harder for me to just sit and watch and NOT be onstage.  So I joined the troupe the “Steamin’ Mimis”.  My very first act was a tango inspired dance, and I only stripped down to a full corset, ruffle panties, and fishnets.

Unlike most performers who tend to stick to one style (be it classic, neo, etc.) you seem to dabble in all styles. What are your thoughts on folks who insist that classic performers should stick to classic burlesque (and that neo-burlesquers should only do neo?)

I think I HAVE touched on every style at one point or another.  If someone insisted that I should only do one style, I might think they were being a bit selfish at first, but maybe they’re complimenting me on performing a specific style particularly well.  I guess it could go either way, but I feel that it should always be up to the performer.  If you love neo, keep doin’ it!  If you’re comfy in classic, keep doin’ it!  Do it your way and have fun!  But since we’re all creative people, sometimes “sticking to” a certain style can lead to feeling “stuck in” that style.  My advice is to try each one on and see what fits, maybe all of them will.

In one Fleur de Tease dance you choreographed, you and 2 other performers do a spot on ode to Bollywood-style dancing. In another, you do a mash up of 2001: A Space Odyssey and Beastie Boys “Intergalactic,” complete with an alien dance-off. You’ve stated that your Darth Vader striptease is one of your favorite routines to perform, and you also have more classic boa/glove/gown strips to music like Ray Charles. From where or whom do you draw your influences? Do you find it difficult to come up with fresh and exciting material or are you the type that always has a million new ideas stewing on the back burner?

I’m definitely influenced by all types of dance and all types of music.  For me, most of the time a skit idea will come from a song.  Sometimes it comes from a specific costume piece, or a show theme, or a random idea that gets bounced off someone else, which is exactly how the Intergalactic dance-off came about!  Natasha Fiore (my alien cohort in that number) and I used to work together at a day job and we would throw around wacky ideas all day, and some of them stuck, like the space dance.  And I get inspired by watching my fellow performers; we have some really talented burly girls here in New Orleans!  Sometimes it does get difficult to come up with new material, I get dancer’s block, or I can’t figure out just what to do for that theme show.  But oh yes, I’ve got ideas that have been on the back burner for a while, mostly due to lack of funds.  But it’s okay, I’m hopeful that I can pull them out of limbo in the near future.

You’re performing at the 2nd Annual New Orleans Burlesque Festival’s Risque Soiree on Friday, September 17 at the House of Blues. What aspect of the festival are you looking forward to the most?

I’m really happy to be included in the fest again this year.  Last year I missed out on the daytime activities, so I’m looking forward to attending some of the classes and panel discussions.  And of course I’m excited to perform and to meet the other performers and watch them do their thing.

What other events or upcoming projects do you have in the works?

Well, I’m really excited to be heading to Dallas to perform at the Lakewood Theater on October 1st as a special guest for Viva Dallas Burlesque!  And I’ll probably be hitting the road with Tony Clifton/Comic Relief for a few dates in October as well.  With Fleur de Tease, we’re preparing for a big “Wizard of Oz” show, September 11th & 12th.  We’re gearing it towards New Orleans (instead of Kansas) so it should be fun, and we’ll be performing at the Voodoo Music Experience again this year on Halloween Day.  With the Storyville Starlettes, we’re having a show at the Shadowbox Theatre on October 24th.  It will most likely be a Halloween theme that could veer towards serial killers and/or scary movies.  And we’re planning a Facebook themed show soon, so look out!

Please share 3 little known facts about yourself.

–I once chased down a purse snatcher to retrieve my friend’s purse, even after being threatened with stabbing.

–I have love affairs with absinthe, Twizzlers, and bacon, but not at the same time.

–I can get any song out of my head by singing “Red Red Wine” to myself.  It works!

Burlesque Legend Wild Cherry talks New Orleans, burlesque revivals, and “taking it outside”.

By: Divertida Devotchka

New Orleans burlesque legend Wild Cherry grew up travelling the carnival circuit with her family, and her first performances were carnival girlie shows.  She began dancing in New Orleans night clubs in the late 1950s. “I just wanted to make a living, because I had not had any formal schooling.” explains Cherry.  Her stage name was given to her by a club owner who found it was befitting of her feisty personality. Cherry danced in various clubs throughout the French Quarter over the years and has fond memories of dancing, drinking, and of course, fighting. According to Cherry, there were certainly some clubs she didn’t stay at for very long. “I worked at some clubs with bad reputations- girls fighting a lot, and some managers even hit the girls. That never happened to me though,” Cherry said.  “Maybe because my name put them off, I don’t know.”

There’s known to be intermittent cattiness and drama in some aspects of the burlesque scene, but Wild Cherry says things are nothing like they used to be. “There wasn’t a lot of that catfight stuff. Nah, these girls were pretty rough,” Cherry said in an interview with Rick Delaup, producer of New Orleans’ own Bustout Burlesque and the New Orleans Burlesque Festival. “And if they did decide they didn’t like somebody, in theaters I’ve seen, they would take a rolling pin and a light bulb, and grind that glass up fine like a powder and put it in your face powder. They would put shoe polish in the eye mascara tube. They could get really rough. They didn’t play.”

I found the “crushed glass in the face powder” gag to be rather shocking, so when I asked Cherry about it in our interview, she casually replied, “Well, I was glad I didn’t use powder, for one thing! I used pancake makeup instead and I suppose I would have seen crushed glass in that.”

In recent years, Wild Cherry has performed in several of the Burlesque Hall of Fame weekend Legends showcases, as well as performing occasionally with New Orleans troupe Fleur de Tease, and she’s also done a comedic monologue in some Bustout Burlesque shows. She’ll be appearing again at this year’s New Orleans Burlesque Festival, where she will participate in panel discussions and sign autographs. I asked Cherry for her opinion about the current boom in modern burlesque.  “There are girls out there who are bringing back the classic style and I’m excited about that,” Cherry said. “There are troupes all over doing that now, thank God. But I’m dead set against most of the new Bourbon Street. So many girls just go on stage and stroll around begging for money. Most of them don’t even dance, and some of them may be good at working the pole, but soliciting money has no part in burlesque.”

According to Cherry, burlesque isn’t the only thing that she has seen change over the years. She was known for being “scrappy” and argumentative, and admittedly used to go looking for fights some nights as an outlet for her rage. “I don’t go looking for trouble like I used to. People who knew me before would definitely think I’ve mellowed out over the years,” Cherry said. She may be calmer these days, but the old Cherry is still in there, and is known to make an appearance from time to time, much to the chagrin of her family. “I haven’t been in a good fight in years, but I wouldn’t back down from one even today, doesn’t matter if it’s a man or a woman. A few years ago I embarrassed my granddaughter in Wal-Mart because I was threatened by two young women and I said, ‘Let’s take it outside.’ Of course, the girls backed down.”

Layman’s Guide to New Orleans Burlesque

By: Femme Vivre LaRouge

I can hardly think of two things that could hold more promise of a delectably good time than New Orleans and burlesque.  There is quite a lot going on in that fair city’s burly-q scene and we think you should know about it!  To that end, we have put together this concise guide of New Orleans’ foremost troupes and where you can catch their acts.

Although the New Orleans Burlesque Festival was formed in 2009 to showcase the more traditional side of the city’s (and beyond) best burlesque, there are fabulous shows in the area that are done in both the classic and neo-burlesque style.

Bustout Burlesque, produced by Rick Delaup (who we also have to thank for organizing the New Orleans Burlesque Festival) has been painting the town red since 2005.  It was the first show to feature live jazz accompaniment for the entire set and continues to do so, making for a truly electrifying atmosphere.  A little comedy and a great deal of glamour make this show a very authentic trip down memory lane by way of Bourbon Street.  This powerhouse group has had some great successes.  Included are the production, “Cointreau presents Dita Von Teese with Special Guests, in association with Bustout Burlesque” and giving rise to burlesque star, Perle Noire, reigning Queen of Burlesque.  They can be seen monthly at The House of Blues and other venues, such as Le Chat Noir, from time to time.  You can learn more about this lovely and lavish production at www.bustoutburlesque.com

Reverend Spooky LeStrange & Her Billion Dollar Baby Dolls, a rotating cast of local dancers and out of towners, venerate cultural icons, both classic and cult.  With a literary flair, their past “Church of Burlesque” events include ‘sermons’ on True Blood, banned books, and comic books.  They dance to “heal your troubled souls and uplift your yearning hearts” at various venues around the city.  The Reverend Spooky herself has been performing at festivals around the country since 2004.  She named her troupe as homage to a group of street walkers who, during the mid-twentieth century, would parade together in Zulu on Fat Tuesday, carrying bottles of champagne and wearing garters full of money.  Find out more about their fantastic affairs at www.myspace.com/billiondollarbabydolls

Another New Orleans favorite is Fleur de Tease.  This troupe keeps very busy, performing every Friday at Boomtown Casino for The Burlesque Ballroom, presented by Trixie Minx and Irvin Mayfield.  They will also be presenting The Wizard of Oz at One Eyed Jacks September 11 and 12, for the fee of $15, or $20 for reserved table seating.  In addition to several other shows listed on their calendar at www.fleurdetease.com they also share their tricks of the trade by hosting Burlesque 101 classes.  Directed by Trixie Minx (also a dancer), this is a true variety show, encompassing circus, magic, vocal, and aerial acts, as well as burlesque.

Slow Burn Burlesque has been igniting audiences with their sideshow panache and punk rock attitude since 2009.  While still paying their respects to yesteryear, they use modern music and “the dialogue of today to push the boundaries of the art form.”  Their cast of characters includes a comic emcee, magicians, fire performers, and of course, burlesque beauties.  Their upcoming extravaganzas include “Pretty Not Practical” on September 4th, at Howlin’ Wolf, for $10 advance, $12 at the door, $15 for VIP, and Roxie le Rouge Presents: The Appeteaser, dinner and a show at The Elephant Room in Lafayette.  For more information, visit their fabulous website at www.slowburnburlesque.com

One more group to delight your senses is the Storyville Starlettes.  Billed as the longest running burlesque troupe in New Orleans, they are named after New Orleans’ famed historic red light district and have kicked their glamorous gams up at several local establishments.  Learn more about them at www.myspace.com/storyvillestarlettes

Also not to be overlooked is Grindin Diamonds Productions, a casting company that can provide your party or event with go-go and burlesque dancers and female characters.  Explore what they have to offer at www.grindindiamonds.com

2010 Best Solo & Audience Choice Winner at Texas Burlesque Festival:

Angi B Lovely drops in to chat about titles, aerials, gypsies, Maury Povich, and disco camping.

Interview: Shoshana.  Photographs: High Art Studio and Benn Britt.

Catch Angi this month at Viva Dallas Burlesque on August 6^th, with the Lollie Bombs August 13^th and 14^th, and in September at The New Orleans Burlesque Festival!

Q: You originally came on the burlesque scene in Dallas, well…by helping to start it.  Tell us about those early days as a co-founder of the award winning and beloved troupe- The Lollie Bombs.

It wasn’t entirely glamorous in the beginning I must admit. We often performed on tiny, badly lit stages, mostly at bars and changed in storage rooms with no mirrors.

Trying to educate an audience that had no idea about burlesque was no easy thing to do, especially when most of us didn’t have a basis of comparison ourselves, because of this we took a lot of risks.  Some of our early work included botoh pieces, gas masks, beat poetry, drag queens, and guy members… anything went. Eventually we figured out a formula that worked, but there was a lot of trial and error.

Q: In addition to your work with the Lollie Bombs, you have also come onto the radar as one of the only aerial artists in Texas on the burlesque scene.  How did you first become interested in aerials and what was your training?

As a child I was always climbing to the highest point I could get to; I would often get stuck in trees, or spend hours on the roof. During recess I would spent my time alone hanging upside down and figuring out ways to flip off the bars. I never had any fear of falling, and enjoyed the comfort and quiet of being alone in the air. It was always in the back of my head that aerial art was something that I wanted to do. I took a few classes here and there, but it wasn’t until after my grandmother died that I made the commitment to go for it in a very serious way. She wanted to be a trapeze artist and had always wanted my mother to join the circus. I always wanted to be an aerialist too, so in a way I feel I’m living both of our dreams.

Q: Your aerials, hula hoop performances, fire performances, and work as a performance artist has taken you to all kinds of venues and performances outside of the burlesque scene.   In addition to burlesque, what are your other performance interests?

I love ballroom dance. I have a special love for swing dancing, lindy hop most specifically. I also studied musical theater early in my college career and still have a huge interest in that area.  Also, with literally dozens of disciplines with in circus art, I feel I’m just scratching the surface.

Q: What do you say to folks who say that your aerial numbers are not true burlesque?

I’m not entirely sure what “true burlesque” is to be honest.  This seems to be a genre that is continually reinventing itself. I do theatrical striptease with a gimmick. Some girls strip with a feather boa, I strip in the air. I don’t see how one is more “burlesque” than the other. Indigo Blue once told me “we can spend a lot of time talking about what burlesque isn’t, but I’m not sure how productive that is”. Like her, I’d rather focus my energy on being inclusive, not tearing each other down.

Q: Tell us how it felt winning the title of Best Solo at Texas Burlesque Fest, as well as being a finalist for the title of Performer of the Year at Hot Rods and Heels.

Winning best solo at TX Burlesque Fest was pretty surreal- I had not expected to even be competing at all.  It was only after  tying for crowd favorite with Gravity Plays Favorites Friday night and was invited back to compete Saturday. This was my third year at TX Burlesque Fest and I’ve never been included in the competition, only the showcase, so winning something my first year competing was an incredible honor, especially with all the enormous talent that was involved in this year’s show down. It’s a moment I will treasure for a long time.

I stopped performing and moved to Houston during the time that Burlesque really exploded in Dallas, so moving back I was relatively unknown.  Even the people who had remembered me from The Lollie Bombs might not have thought of me as a solo performer, so I felt I really had a lot to prove.  When I was nominated by my peers as a finalist for Performer of the Year it solidified in my head that I had been accepted into the community, and had made a name for myself as a solo performer.

Q: I joke that you’re a gypsy, but it is true that you come from a long line of performing and visual artists.  Tell us a little about your background.

My grandmother on my mother’s side was always drawing and sketching. My mother was a ballerina, and my mother’s brother is an actor, sculptor, puppet maker and Renaissance man in general. My father’s mother was an actress and a dancer as well, having minor roles in movies like Singing in the Rain.

Q: I hear that Maury Povich plays a role in your daily life- What’s with the Maury addition?

Kind of a guilty pleasure I guess. I practice aerials everyday from one to three, which also happens to be when Maury is on, so usually I’m watching Maury 10 feet in the air.  My trainer and I get a good laugh, it’s bonding for us.

Q: Ok, another oddity- disco camping?

Yes, It’s like regular camping only you bring your whole house, your costume wardrobe, and a big ass disco ball. Pants are optional, participation is mandatory.

But seriously, Disco camping is a phrase I use to refer to events I attend that are based on the 10 principles of Burning Man. Being involved in this community has definitely helped to shape who I am as a person and a performance artist, I’m continuously finding new inspiration and platforms to express myself through these venues.

Q: Artists seek to challenge themselves as a general rule, with so many performance styles under your belt, is there anything you haven’t conquered that you’d like to?

Oh plenty! I have a huge appetite for learning new things and like keeping my audience on their toes. Belly dance, hand balancing, and roue cyr are what come to my mind immediately. I’d also like to learn to play an instrument, something quaint -maybe the ukelalai.  I’m also interested in learning the production side of performance, like lighting design, set and prop building, costume design and sewing skills- really being a one woman show.

Q: What are your three biggest indulgences?  Three biggest fears?

I fear never truly mastering one craft because my focus often switches so quickly. I also fear the deterioration of my body as I get older resulting the loss of my ability to dance. The third may sound silly, but I have a huge fear of being by myself at night where I cannot see all the entrances and exits of the house- it can be crippling at times.

My indulgences are: costumes, snobby beer, and sleep.

Texas Burlesque Performer- One to Watch (Hot Rods and Heels Newcomer Category) Bunny Bailey talks polyamoury, swapping, saving the planet, and being a “world renowned burlesque star”.

Interview & Photographs: Shoshana, of DallasPinUp.com

Q: You describe your style as “avant garde”.  What do you choose this term and what do you hope viewers will walk away with from your performances?

The word avant-garde is defined as new and unusual or experimental ideas, especially in the arts.¹ Avant-garde represents a pushing of the boundaries of what is accepted as the norm or the status quo, primarily in the cultural realm.² I simply feel this explains what I do, who I am, and what I aim to achieve as a performer. It’s a motivational term that expresses my desire to go above and beyond what’s safe, comfortable or expected.

While I don’t personally see a lack of innovation in the scene at all, I feel being avant-garde speaks to the style and execution of creativity. In my case I utilize modern/alternative music, costuming and concepts over the beloved classic choices in many routines. I have something to say that extends far beyond my sex appeal or dance abilities; although a great deal of it hasn’t been seen on stage yet. Describing myself as avant-garde is a reminder to not be scared about going “there” and sharing that experience with others.

I cannot yet specify what I wish viewers will walk away with from my performances, but it’s my hope that I will be embraced for my beauty, brains and balls.

¹ Oxford English Dictionary

² Wikipedia

Q: In addition to your “alternative” views on burlesque, you also have some alternative personal views.  Can you explain your desire to “create the world’s largest swapping environment” while “shacking up with your huge polyamourous family”?

Ha! I see when those two phrases are set side-by-side it’s quite suggestive. However, in my case “swapping” is a reference to stuff, not people and partners. One of my entrepreneurial pursuits before burlesque was creating an NPO where I hosted parties for (mostly) women to exchange all their excess stuff with one another. Even though I switched gears, I have every intention of continuing that work on a much larger scale because it’s tragic how wasteful and resourcefully careless we are on this planet.

As for the other mention, I am a bi-sexual, polyamorous woman. While I am married to a wonderful, gorgeous man I adore, it is my ultimate desire to have multiple partners in open-but-committed extended relationships that result in a huge family with oodles of super-kids and pets running around on our eco-farm village. I’m definitely a modern hippie.

Q: Though you have extensive formal dance training, you opted for the world of burlesque as opposed to say, joining a touring dance company.  Can you share with us how you picked your path in the dance world?

When I first fell in love with dance as a child it was upon the discovery that dance was a language, and it became a conversation I could have with myself to learn more about who I was. It was a secret place that I could disappear to and feel more truth and honesty than I did in the real world. As I grew older and navigated the dance domain further, it got farther and farther from what I wanted it to be.

After high school I knew I would not be happy in any of the traditional homes for a dancer, and decided to withdraw. I trusted I would find or make my own way. I had first found The Wall in Deep Ellum, where I cut my freestyle chops, then belly dancing at my local YMCA, and finally burlesque. It’s in this community that I have the freedom I was searching for.

Q: It’s been quite a year for you!  Since leaving the Velvet Kittens, your former troupe, you have been a solo performer for just about a year now and were recently earned the Newcomer Award- One to Watch at Hot Rods and Heels as well as being selected from a pool of hundreds to perform at Viva Las Vegas.    Have those recent experiences influenced your burlesque outlook or feelings on competition within burlesque?

It has been an exciting year full of new experiences for sure, although familiar at the same time since I’ve been performing successfully most of my life. Still, in a new community you don’t exactly know what to expect so I feel very lucky to have been so welcomed and recognized!

I continue to feel that there should be better ways to recognize performers than having them be formally judged in competitions, but I am grateful for being selected and the opportunities that stem from that of course!

Q: As well as the highs, you’ve had some lows this year.  As a result of a random and violent attack several years ago, you spent some time early this year in surgery.  How’s your health now?

Well the low was really 8 years ago when it happened and in the past year I’ve been very lucky with the two surgeries I’ve had so far. I have two more planned as of right now but my costs have been completely covered so that’s a huge relief. I also chose a naturopathic physician I just love and their whole team is wonderful; they take very good care of me. It’s one step at a time and while I don’t know exactly what the end result of all the work will be, I have been able to focus on healing and have every reason to be optimistic about it.

Q: In addition to aspiring to be “a world renowned burlesque star”, also have “successful indie singer/songwriter” on your list of lifetime ambitions.   Any chance we’ll be hearing you sing anytime soon?

I hope so! I’ve been singing and writing songs since I was 8 or 9, but I developed a major case of stage fright. I can be brought to tears singing so easily (damn emotions) and letting my music be heard feels like the most vulnerable and exposed I’ve ever been. But, I’ve been practicing with my husband and friends so it’s in the works. I have a signature act and song called “My Name is Bunny” that I’d love to get on stage- it’s upbeat and adorable, so I won’t cry.

Q: What does the future hold for Bunny Bailey?

Hopefully everything we’ve discussed so far (which is a shitload)! I will continue performing and modeling, although I will be slowing down a bit. The acts I want to put on stage next are all pretty much going to take a while to prepare.

Even more of a consideration than that however, is my recent decision to return to school and get my degree in Environmental/Sustainable Architecture. This is a very big deal and will mean a move and performing only during summers once I’m enrolled. That is ideal for me though, as I need a healthy dose of scholastic endeavors to balance my artistic activities.

A future full of love, laughter, learning, philanthropy, art, community, creating, travel and other such great things- that’s the plan!

We last spoke with Austin-based Coco Lectric back in November.  Since that interview, she has gone on to win the Title of Texas Performer of the Year, “Texas Burlesque Ambassador”, and will be performing later this month with none other than Dita Von Teese.  We certainly have a lot of catching up to do, and were honored when Coco took time out of her insanely busy schedule for an interview with us.

Interview & Photographs: Shoshana, of DallasPinUp.com

Q: Since we last interviewed you in November, so much has happened!  First, let’s talk Hot Rods and Heels.  You won the Texas Performer of the Year title, and The Jigglewatts won for Texas Troupe of the Year.  Tell us a bit about the evolution of your work over the last nine months.
The last nine months has been a pretty wild ride. I’ve done more producing than I ever have. We opened the year with a Tribute to Bettie Page which featured The Jigglewatts and Dallas performers, Ginger Valentine and Elisa and other amazing Austin girls. Miss Ruby Joule and I have done a lot more traveling as well; we performed in Albuquerque at the Southwest Burlesque Showcase and in Bustout Burlesque in New Orleans. I performed in Chicago with Michelle L’Amour and her Chicago Startlets in Chicago for “Stripper’s Holiday” in April.

Dallas made reaching my goal of getting my name out there because I got the opportunity to perform in shows with Catherine D’Lish, Perle Noire, Angie Pontani, and my personal favorite, Dirty Martini. I’ve also made festivals a priority this year because, not only would a title or two be wonderful, I get to learn from and become closer friends with some of my favorite burlesque performers and legends. Networking is so important in burlesque world, I mean, sharing one’s performances is kind of the point, right? Performing with other folks from all over the world that make burlesque a priority widens the net of potential audience members and fans.

Q: Right after Hot Rods and Heels, you were off to Vegas to be the only Texas performer given a performance slot at the Miss Exotic World Showcase, part of Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend in Las Vegas, becoming our “Texas Burlesque Ambassador”.  Tell us about that experience.

Being the opening act for the opening show was an honor. So many attendees told me how much they enjoyed my number and I attribute a lot of that to being the first one on stage. The audience was absolutely incredible and attentive and spent their hard earned time and money to get to the venue, so they were ready for a good show. I was SO ready to give it to them, I’d been saving up my adrenaline for that night and can honestly say that when I walked off the stage, I was content. I even got to give Perle Noire the eyes during a glove peel. She responded ecstatically! Being the “Texas Burlesque Ambassador” this year was an honor but it also brought about a new set of responsibilities. So many amazing performers here submitted applications and I was shocked that I was the only one to get in. I was nervous that if my performance wasn’t so great, they really wouldn’t take Texas seriously. I’m hoping I made a big enough splash this year that they consider more Texas performers next year.

Q: The Jigglewatts are headlining at the Lakewood Theater on July 2, and then you are off to New Orleans to perform with none other than Dita von Teese at Tales of the Cocktail. Can you tell us which number/s you are doing?  Are you more nervous or excited?

I’m performing my Big Red Boa number in Dita’s show. I’m very excited about performing with her and I’m doing the long version of the song, which is what I’m most comfortable with. I’m mostly nervous that I won’t have enough rhinestones on my outfit!  But seriously, I am a little nervous about performing for an entirely new audience. Most folks come to burlesque shows because they love burlesque. Dita von Teese’s audience comes to the show because they love Dita, I hope they have enough room in their burlesque hearts for a full-bodied Texan with a tan.

Q: Your four month whirlwind lands you back in New Orleans in mid September to compete for the title of Queen of Burlesque at the New Orleans Burlesque Festival.  Last year’s competition featured an amazing line-up including burlesque super stars like  Perle Noire, Catherine D’ Lish, and Lola Van Ella.  What was your reaction when you were asked to compete?  What is your view on competition in burlesque?

I was absolutely beside myself thrilled when I found out that I’d be competing in the Queen of Burlesque competition this year. I really want to bring something fresh, new, and a little naughty to the show this year. There is just something about performing with a live band that gets my toes curling. I actually kind of enjoy competition in burlesque, it makes me want to improve my craft and do my homework.

I’ve always been a little bit aggressive when it comes to my talents, though. If I weren’t competing with other bombshells, I’d be competing with myself. It really is difficult for a panel of judges to make a decision of who has the best act though, burlesque is like comparing different fruits. No one is selling the same exact gimmick and everyone likes something different. To be honest, I don’t really know how to compete well with other performers, there’s never a level playing field and most of us are playing different games any way.

Q: In the midst of all this, you also managed to complete your master’s degree, be a single mom, and hold down a personal relationship.  How do you manage to do it all?
Wow. That really makes it sound like I’m busy, doesn’t it? The short answer is: I don’t know. I take things one moment at a time. I follow my passions and I try to temper everything with common sense and logic. My degree will open a lot of doors for me in the future, but it has taken a back seat to everything else. There are a lot of things I know I need to do right now. I need to focus on burlesque right now. I need to be a good mom right now. I need my boyfriend right now…wait that’s not what it sounds like!

On a more personal note, I only get the chance to be a great mom once. I know how important my influence is while he’s young and he is my top priority. My boyfriend has been a great support in my life, artistically and emotionally. We’ve known each other for years and I still get butterflies when I know he’s in the audience. I follow my heart and my gut in all matters of my life and, to my great surprise, I find myself where I belong.

Miss Cardinal Cyn of Austin is the featured performer for Hot Rods and Heels 2010. Here she takes the time to chat with us about Mexican wrestling, pimps, Miss Exotic World, and Femurs. This is an abbreviated version of the full article available in our Best of Spring 2010 Issue, which will celebrate its issue release at Hot Rods and Heels on May 15th, and will be available in our online shop after that!

Interview & Photographs: Shoshana, of Through the Looking Glass Studio

Q: Your burlesque bio is extensive.  How did you get your start, tell us about that first performance.

My introduction into the burlyq world started behind the scenes where I helped friends with their hair and makeup for shows and photos.
My first appearance as Cardinal Cyn was on the cover and centerfold of Barracuda Magazine!    

From there I was in the “Night of the Tiki” featuring Don Ho!  I was the mermaid that sheds her tail, so she can join in the tiki fun. Kitty Diggins gave me my first shot on stage as  one of her follies in “the Kit Kat Follies Burlesque Revue” fundraiser for Dixie Evans Exotic World Museum at the Palace Theater. The Palace is an art deco theater that holds 2200 seats! My most memorable solo-ish performance (I had 2 backup dancers) was at the Mayan Theater (built 1927 holds 1491 seats)which is truly amazing  it’s the real deal with balcony seating and art deco mayan carvings on the walls.  The show was Lucha Vavoom (Mexican masked wrestling, comedy & burlesque) which I previously performed in as a ring girl. I read that in 1948 the Mayan was a burlesque theater and Marilyn Monroe made an appearance!
 
Q: You competed for best Debut at Miss Exotic World 2006, can you tell us a little bit about that experience? 

It was the first year they did it in Vegas! I just remember all the great acts and getting to see and meet the legends! I had my first run in with Satan’s Angel in the bathroom giving my friend Mia Vixen a impromptu lesson on tassels! I recommend to all the girls new and old to attend Miss Exotic World or Tease O Rama and really experience the true supportive and awe inspiring performers from all over the world.  It’s a really great feeling to be enveloped with all the camaraderie with other women that have the love you do for burlyq!
 
Q: At one point you were represented/managed by a talent agency, maybe you still are.  What is your view on professional representation, as opposed to performers representing themselves?

I’ve always represented myself. I’m listed with a friend’s promotion agency out of NY!  Living in TX now I don’t book as much in the corporate world.  It would be great having someone to deal with all the money aspect.  It’s hard when there are people out there trying to take advantage of performers, we don’t need pimps, people!

Q: Now a painful subject.  In 2008, when it seemed like you were unstoppable, you slipped on an audience member’s spilled drink and broke your femur during a show at Emo’s in Austin with Kitten Deville.  It took a troupe in the show insisting that you go to the hospital, and when you arrive you learned you were going to need metal screws to put you back together.  You were out of commission for three months, and unable to perform for a lot longer.  How long did it take you to emotionally recover, and how long did it take your career to recover?  What has the rebuilding process been like?

Ladies I don’t recommend doing this at home or anywhere!  Although I do believe it helped win me the title of the “Most Beloved Burlesque Performer” in the Austin Chronicle! I broke my femur at the hip and have 3 metal screws to put me back together. I was on a walker for 3 months and then moved on to crutches.  I was scheduled to perform at a benefit for Miss Exotic World in Corpus Christi. I didn’t want to let them down and I really wanted to perform!  I bought a beautiful art deco red velvet chair to perform on.  I was nervous because I’m a hip shaker and never just did a striptease!  It was an amazing experience!  My adrenaline kicked in and I couldn’t even walk on my crutches, I had to be carried off stage! I did that performance two more times in Houston at the Continental Club and Numbers! Burlesque definitely helped to get back on my feet.  I don’t have insurance so I couldn’t afford physical therapy. I did it all myself dancing in the pool!  My motivation was to perform at the Tease O Rama in SF, where I used my cane right up till I got on the stage!  That was 8 months after my accident.  Two years later I’m still working on getting my leg back to full use without discomfort, and no I can’t tell if it’s going to rain.  The experience really made me appreciate my life, legs also made me realize how vulnerable I am.  How nothing can hold me back and that I’m not patient what so ever!
 
Q: In addition to quite an impressive burlesque career, you have an equally stunning career as owner of La Petite Rouge in Austin where you are a hair and makeup artist.  What have been your most rewarding experiences in your “day job”?

I love vintage glamour and I love making people feel beautiful inside and out!  That truly is the most rewarding!  I have had the pleasure of working with many great people including celebs and the girl next door.

Q: What are the most common mistakes you see gals make in the realm of pin-up and burlesque make-up and hair artistry?  What are your beauty pet peeves?

Well I’m eyebrow obsessed and it’s truly one of my specialties! So ladies get them right!  Just find what makes you stand out and have fun!  Do your homework before a shoot.  Look at other pinups and find the pose and the look you want before the big day!  For burlesque know your body what are your best attributes? Make them a focal point and disguise the ones that aren’t!

Not a beauty pet peeve, but a performance…I don’t really care for shock value in burlesque, to me that is more of a performance art. I like the glamour of burlesque, I’m not into the raunchy props keeps those at home please!…Unless of course the show is all about that then by all means go for it.

And a final word from your burlyq sponsor :]  Be supportive of your fellow burlyq girls they’ve got your back!  If you’re not having  fun don’t do it.  xx Miss Cardinal Cyn

Grace Truvant, founder of Lady Grace Academy, is putting Houston, TX on the burlesque map!

Story: Bubbles VonBonBon Photos: Shoshana, Though the Looking Glass

Know burlesque? Know Texas? Well here’s a question…what do you know about burlesque in Houston, Texas (the nation’s fourth largest city by the by)?

Your answer in all likelihood is not a darn thing–which seems surprising in these neo-burlesque-even-sweeping-the-silver-screen times. Located a mere two hours from Austin…and only five from Dallas where TWO different burlesque films have made their debut within a two months’ time span, Houston is surprisingly behind the striptease times.
But one little lady in the oil tycoon city is set to change that…and she’s starting with building her own audience of burlesque admirers and appreciators.

To my absolute enjoyment, the stars aligned for me to do an actual phone rather than email interview with the woman wanting to help bring burlesque to her hometown, and by the end of our talk I was absolutely enthralled with the sweetness and intelligence of this new but determined advocate for Houston’s striptease revival. Grace Truvant first fueled her lust for classic tease by attending one of the most historically relevant festivals in the new movement….the very first annual New Orleans Burlesque Festival.

Swept by storm tragedy a mere 4 1/2 years ago, New Orleans is often viewed as the old time birthplace of American burlesque. Although this is factually questionable, there is no doubt that NOLA brought something entirely original to the language of bumps and grinds. The lovely Ms. Truvant happened across the festival through the internet and planned a trip with her husband; the trip soon served as the impetus for an overhaul of the curriculum offered at her newly conceived dance school.

When she came voyeur to stage with NOLA and the enticingly cheeky and charming performers of burlesque, Grace fell in love at first grind. Having recently founded Lady Grace Academy, as an alternative opportunity and environment to learn exotic dance, Ms. Truvant knew that she must bring burlesque back. For herself. For her city. And above all to her students…women searching for the meaning of everything from body confidence to sexuality to femininity as fun.
You see…before Grace took burlesque to her city, it was nowhere to be found. Not on stage, not in studios. Asking Grace what really hooked her that fateful night in New Orleans where she witnessed her first show, I learned we had one remarkable influence performer in common: Jo Weldon. It was the incredible aura Jo brought to the stage as well as her workshop (Tassel Twirling 101, of course!) that sealed the deal for Grace, as it has for many burgeoning burlesque stars. It was Jo’s influence and presence as a strong woman in both performance and attitude that gripped Grace’s dancer soul and led her toward beginning a movement that has yet to be really made in Houston.

Grace will tell you that there have been troupes that have come and gone in the south Texas city–but nothing that really stuck or resounded with the general populace. Ms. Truvant is not entirely clear why this has been the case in her hometown, but she suspects it may have somewhat something to do with the high number of lap dance strip clubs–which may help foster a general lack of education regarding burlesque and its value as entertainment beyond sexual enticement.

This led me to another curiosity: if the Houston scene has yet to develop, and few people in the city seem to have a clear idea as to what a burlesque show entails, what sort of students seek out the Lady Grace Academy? Essentially it is women in very similar sparkly shoes to Grace this past year: they have a base knowledge of what burlesque once was, just as it has become part of our classic collective knowledge. But that isn’t enough. Her students find her as they search to find what the meaning and movement of burlesque is beyond feather boas and satin gloves.

Although LGA initially offered only exotic dance classes (Lady Grace herself has been trained in exotic dance forms from expert instructors in the field–but she sought to make it more accessible to women intimidated by the sometimes unfortunate connotations of the art), the school is now almost exclusively burlesque curriculum based outside of the occasional workshop on lap dance or go-go movement. In between educating women about the benefits and beauty of burlesque, Grace is also presented with another plateau to mount–actually getting burlesque shows into Houston. This is a process of small steps, however; and Grace wants to get it right the first time.

Although Grace is well versed in the transformative and tantalizing thrill of burlesque movement, she too is still seeking out her burlesque performance voice. A trained journalist, she is well acquainted with searching for her writing voice–and the difference it makes in presentation once it is finally found. When we talked about the high volume of writers cum burlesque queens (and vice versa), she felt it was that voice element that draws so many practitioners of both arts. As she said, “Burlesque requires the brain, all of one’s thoughts. The planning and methodical process taken to produce a cohesive creative endeavor appeals to women who are attracted to thinking in a narrative way.”

For Grace, the first stop then in creating both a burgeoning burlesque scene in Houston, as well as growing and shaping her school and students, is to really find her space on the stage with more performance experience and audience interaction. As many fresh faces feel when they arrive, she feels the tug of opening herself totally on stage, but she is still exploring the means and meaning of her personal give and take with the audience. She’s trying to process her precise formula for the final feeling and energy she wants to leave with her spectators. Once she finds her personal stage presence signature…the spotlight’s going to keep shining bright in Grace’s eyes. Thus far she has performed in Houston’s “A Tribute to Bettie Page,” presented by The Jigglewatts. This week she takes on Texas Burlesque Festival, and she can then next be seen at Dallas’s own Hot Rods and Heels. All shows which provide further evidence that although Grace may be new to the scene, she’s a force that won’t be forgotten any time in the near future.

So what does come next for Lady Grace Academy and Houston burlesque as Grace goes forward? Well, for one she wants to take her students to the next level with her. Having traveled to Dallas several times for workshops with Ginger Valentine, Headmistress of Ginger Valentine’s Burlesque Charm School, Grace is excited to begin planning for advanced classes in addition to her Burlesque Basics (which already has experienced several happy repeat students). Once things really get underway for both Grace’s performance prowess and her school’s student advancement, she hopes to seek a space to showcase her students and try her hand at producing. She isn’t afraid to help other ladies join her ranks, either. Because that may be the most charming thing about this sweet Houston honey: she really honors the term lady and exemplifies a refreshing grace. For Grace this isn’t about being the best or outshining others. I think she put it best when she told me at the end of our lovely talk, this little gem of a genuine spirit:

“The thing I always want to uphold and encourage in my time as a performer and teacher is that burlesque is a tribe. We should all support one another as much as possible. Because when one of us shines, we all do. There is no finite number of spotlights and we all bring something different and special to the stage. We won’t eclipse one another.”

With that, I can’t wait to see the direction Grace takes on stage, with her students, and in helping to shape the foundation of Houston’s burlesque community as a whole. She’s already a star in my sights, and we should all support this new addition to our skies.

You can find Lady Grace Academy at ladygraceacademy.com, or you can find Grace Truvant on Twitter at http://twitter.com/thursdaygirl, and on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Grace-Truvant/322338607783.

Rosie Rawhyde sits down to talk married life, Vegas, the Air Force, and camaraderie in Texas burlesque. Rosie Rawhyde will be performing in Dallas on May 15th at Hot Rods and Heels.

Interview: Divertida Devotchka Photos: Eddie Hernandez

Q: Your website says you were in the Air Force. How did that transition into burlesque?

I was in the Air Force for almost 5 years. I was an Electronic Warfare Technician and was lucky enough to get stationed in Las Vegas at Nellis AFB. When I moved to Vegas I started hanging out with a group of girls that were into pinup modeling. I did some photoshoots with them and talks began to start a burlesque troupe, which became The Sin City Grind Kittens, which to my knowledge was the first neo-burlesque troupe in Las Vegas. This was in January 2004, and I finished my time in the service in September 2004.

Q: You’ve performed in several troupes under different names over the years. Please share your troupe/stage name history with us.

My first performance was with Sin City Grind Kittens as Deadly Tiger Lily. In August 2004, with the help of my friend Goldie Debloomers, we started Babes in Sin Burlesque. We performed regularly at The Cooler Lounge and performed at the Aruba Hotel on the Strip. During this time I got to go to the last Miss Exotic World Burlesque Reunion held in Helendale, California. I was honored to perform at the Friday night performer party. I performed with Babes in Sin until August 2005 when I relocated to Texas. I took time off until early 2006 when I was hired to perform for a bachelorette party. The event was such a hit I was contacted to start a burlesque show. I decided a name change was in order, and my husband came up with Rosie Rawhyde. We continued self-producing and directing shows under the name Babes in Sin, Texas until late 2008 or early 2009, when it was decided to change the name of the show and the show itself. Instead of making a “troupe” we wanted a “production.” There is a core group of ladies that produce and direct each show as well as perform, but we try to have a rotation of performers to keep it fresh. From this point on the After Dark Revue, Corpus Christi’s only burlesque show, has been in full swing.

Q: What’s your favorite aspect of performing? The most challenging part?

My favorite aspect of performing is the creation of the performance. Having the opportunity to become someone different is such a freeing experience. I love traveling and meeting other performers. I have been able to go to some amazing events and performed at a number of neat venues and I have also had the privilege of sharing the stage with amazing performers.

The most challenging aspect has been the promotion. I hate having to “sell” myself. I want my art and performance to speak for itself. I spend most of my money and time on the actual performance and maybe I have been hurt by not promoting myself enough. On the flipside, I have seen girls that have great websites, business cards and photos, but they’re just boring live. I also find competitions to be a turn off. The minute competition is mentioned, there are performers who will get catty and that is something I don’t want to be involved in. Building camaraderie is something Texas needs. It’s too bad the state is so vast. Travel makes meeting other Texas girls hard because of our location.

Q: Who/what inspires you?

Recently I have gotten into tribal belly dance and have been blown away by the performers and the costuming. I have learned that skill in dance and pride in your costuming is essential, and that you shouldn’t rely on the final tassel shot. Other inspirations include old black and white movies, musicals, vintage cartoons, driving across the country, old glamour, vintage Hollywood, and music. I am inspired by life in general!

Q: How long have you been married? Is your husband involved in the burlesque industry? What are his views of your participation in burlesque?

This year will mark our 8th anniversary. He is the music tech. He is involved whenever we need him, but he never really volunteered to do it, I pretty much volunteer him each time. He is great though, dependable and willing to put up with numerous girls telling him directions.

He feels as long as I am having fun and hold myself with class, performing is fine. Marriage is about compromise and growth, together. I always tell the girls in the show that family comes first. I have found that if I equally give him the attention I give burlesque, I can keep everyone happy. I have a great friend and husband at home that I have a blast with on a daily basis! I have to remind myself that there IS life outside of performing sometimes!

Q: What are your goals as a performer?

I guess my current goal would be to keep that inner spark going. I never wanted this to be a day job. I want to be able to perform and hopefully be able to travel more for various events. I would LOVE to make it back to Vegas to do a show with the troupe I started out there. Of course I lack horribly in promotion so maybe working on that more should be a bigger goal!

Q: You’re performing at Hot Rods and Heels in May. Have you performed in Dallas before?

I haven’t yet had the pleasure of performing in Dallas! This will be my first time seeing so many Dallas performers and I am hoping to have a few join the After Dark Revue in Corpus Christi some time!

Q: What other projects are you currently working on?

After Hot Rods and Heels we start pre-production on our late summer Sideshow Ball. We are also in talks right now to possibly host a Texas Burlesque Performers Showcase in 2011. I would love feedback from any and all performers about traveling to Corpus and participating in a two night party and performance for Texas performers only. No pressure, no competition and a welcoming way for us to meet Texas burlesque performers! Please email rosie@rosierawhyde.com for more info and to submit ideas and feedback!

Q: How do you spend your time when you’re not performing (or preparing to perform)?

When I am not performing I love to spend my time having friends over for drinks and movies. Although once us girls all get together and have a couple drinks we end up watching burlesque videos and having a dance party in the living room to David Bowie!