Dallas’ Blaze was just crowned Texas Performer, One to Watch (the Newcomer category) at Hot Rods and Heels. She sits down with us to talk motorcycles, Ziggy Stardust, costuming, and hair maintenance.

Q: Congrats on winning the Title of TX Burlesque Performer- One to Watch (Newcomer category)!  You seemed to create quite a stir in your first year; to what do you attribute your success?

Thank you! I’m very excited and honored to claim that as my first burlesque title! As far as what I attribute my success to I think a lot of factors came into play. I have an extensive dance background so that helped a lot. I have a great support network of talented friends that encouraged me to really push myself. I have a wonderfully supportive Husband who helps me with my music, watches my endless rehearsing & grudgingly puts up with all the glitter & rhinestones that litter my home.

I think above all though is my determination to really put on the best show I possibly can in the 4 minutes I’m on stage. I really wanted people to walk away from one of my performances saying ‘Wow, that was amazing!’ rather than ‘Aww, she’s new, I’m sure she’ll get better’ so I really though hard on each performance and the impression I was going to give the audience. After all, it is really all about them!

Q: I understand you have made all of your costumes yourself, and they are absolutely amazing! Do you have a background in costuming?

Thank you again! I do make most all of my own costumes but I have purchased various pieces from vendors in the past due to either time constraints or just coming across something perfect for what I was going for. I’ve been sewing my own costumes ever since I asked for a leather jacket for Christmas when I was 13 but got a sewing machine instead! I’ve taken a few courses on sewing & design but I am mostly self taught; a lot of experimentation lead up to where I am today!

Q: Your hair has become a signature, is it a custom color, and how hard is it to maintain?

If I had a nickel for every time someone asked me if I would tell them how to get their hair color the same as mine I would be living *quite* comfortably at this point! I do use products purchased from a regular beauty supply store but I do combine them to create what you see.  Thankfully my hair color is naturally light so I don’t have to use any bleach but it is a lot of upkeep; root touch up at least once a month (more if I have important shows) and color depositing shampoo every time I wash it. I’ve been a redhead for over 15 years now & I think I have *finally* figured it out!

Q: Of all of the new opportunities that have come your way recently, how do you decide which ones to pursue, and which to pass on?

I have more hobbies and interests than really any one person should have so I learned very quickly that I needed to have an up to date calendar with me at all times to first see if I have the time available. I keep in mind if I would have to create a new number for the event & if I have time to create, rehearse, costume & perfect it.  After that I take into consideration the cost of the show for me vs. the compensation I would be getting. Things like would I need a new costume? How far is the event for gas expenditures and if I would need to purchase a hotel for the evening.  If it’s a charity event is it something I would actually want to support? I try to remember that just because someone give me a chance to be onstage doesn’t always mean I need to be up there.

Q: What would be your top three tips for new gals trying to break into burlesque?

Let’s see…

1) Figure out a starting point. Do you want to do classic style burlesque or some really edgy numbers? Is there a performer that really speaks to you with their shows & you want to create the same kind of art? You don’t necessarily have to do that style for the rest of your career but this will at least give you a starting point to seek out teachers or other performers that may help you get started.

2) Attend as many burlesque shows as you possibly can. not only will you see new & exciting performances & styles that you might not be aware of but you will also meet many of the producers & performers involved in shows in your area.  Talk to them about your interest in performing and they might be able to direct you to classes & workshops or troupes that could help.

3) Don’t ever put a performance piece onstage until it’s ready to be seen. Like I said earlier I never wanted people to think ‘oh, she’s just new at this’ due to a lackluster number. Really work hard on your presentation before it gets to the stage.  Practice in front of friends & family & get their feedback.  Get photos taken of you in your costume so you can see how it looks to other people. Record a practice if you can so you can see how everything looks in movement. Above all remember that you are performing for the audience and you need to make THEM happy rather than just satisfying your need to be in the spotlight.

Q: You recently bought a motorcycle, tell us all about your new biker adventures.

I’m so excited about that! I completed my safety course, got my license and picked up my bike all in one day! I now own a 2007 Honda Shadow Spirit VT750DC; it’s all black and chrome with red pinstripe flames painted on the tank.  As soon as I saw it & sat on it I knew it was meant to be mine! I’m still working up to being as proficient as I need to be before heading out alone and safety is a big concern of mine but it’s been a blast so far!

Q: If you could have dinner with any five people, living or dead, who would they be and why?

Tough question!

1) John F. Kennedy – Being born & raised in Massachusetts the Kennedys have always been a fascination for me. My first really ‘book report’ was on JFK when I was in 4th grade.  One of the very first things I ever did in Texas was to go to Dealey Plaza; I still won’t drive over or even get near that ghastly ‘X’ there. I admire what he was trying to do and even though he had normal failings like every human being I think he was a great leader.

2) David Bowie – I remember the first time I heard ‘Ziggy Startdust’ & I came home to tell my mother how much I loved it.  She told me ‘You wouldn’t like him if you knew what he was like in the 70’s’ so of course I immediately went & looked it up & was downright smitten! The movie ‘Labyrinth’ only strengthened my fondness of him & Sarah’s ballgown from that movie turned out to be the first ‘big’ costume I ever made.  Would love to be able to just sit and eat my dinner while listening to him talk and looking at him across the table!

3) Gary Numan – Another British rocker that I am hopelessly smitten with! I met him and his lovely wife Gemma years ago at a show in Boston; I was dressed like Joseph Michael Linsner’s character ‘Dawn’ who Gary had done a ’soundtrack to read by’ for recently. He actually asked to meet me! I love his music and they were both such lovely people I’d really jump at the chance for a dinner with them.

4) Baz Lurhman – The creator of my favorite movie ever; ‘Moulin Rouge’.  I’ve admired many of his films but MR struck me so deeply from the very first time I saw it I doubt there will ever be another movie able to do the same.  I’ve recreated many of Satine’s costumes from it (in frightening detail sometime & please don’t ask me how much I’ve spent over the years on them!) and still cry every single time I watch the end of it. Both he and his wife Catherine Martin (the costume designer for MR) are such huge inspirations to me I would probably be just speechless the entire time!

5) My Dad – I’m very lucky to still have my father alive but I haven’t seen him in person since I got married in 2006. he’s always been such a big supporter of anything and everything I’ve wanted to do in my life even if he didn’t so much approve of what it was.  As long as it made me happy that is all he cared about.  i still talk to him on the phone quite often but there is nothing like a hug in person from your Dad.

Q: What does the future hold for Blaze?

I’m not sure! Sometimes I get frustrated trying to think about what the future does hold for me as there are so many things I want to do & accomplish & I’ve never claimed patience as one of my virtues! Whatever I’ll be doing you can be sure it will include a lot of glitter & rhinestones though!

Our best of Spring 2011 Issue featuring Coco Lectric celebrates it’s Issue Release at the third annual  Hot Rods and Heels May 21st at the Lakewood Theater in Dallas!

We are so proud of this issue!  See cover girl Coco Lectric do a full reveal in our  exclusive photos of Queen of Burlesque & Texas Performer of the Year Inside! Printed in full color from cover to cover, this full sized magazine is 44 pages of your favorite Pin Curl online features and articles as well as exclusive print only material you can only find here. Featuring cover girl Coco Lectric, and including exclusive interviews with Cora Vette, Midnite Martini, Red Hot Annie, Katherine Lashe, Ursula Undress, Courtney Crave, and many more! In addition to feature interviews, you’ll also find great articles including the coveted Tips for Building a Successful Portfolio & Shooting Successful Promo Images Guide, our exclusive Burlesque Haunts series, Herstory of Legends like Georgia Sothern and Mae West, and DIY projects including prop making, vintage beauty secrets and cocktail recipes.

Not going to make it down to Texas?  Buy the new issue online. (Ships out after May 21st).

Hot Rods and Heels 2011 Schedule:

1-6pm Workshops!  Take classes with the pros on pin-up modeling, make-up, and burlesque! Workshops must be purchased in advance.

6pm Doors open to the public!

6-8pm Vintage Shopping with tons of amazing  pin-up vendors indoors, and a classic car show (pre-1964 American hot rods) show outdoors. Mix and mingle over food & drinks.

8pm- Midnight Pin-Up Model Fashion show hosted by the amazing Jayme Foxx!

Awards ceremony that crowns the winners of the Texas [model, performer, make-up artist] of the Year titles.

Burlesque Show featuring some of the best performers from all over Texas! MC: The iconic and hilarious Cora Vette of Denver!

Live Music by rockabilly great Johnny Hootrock on Austin.

Meet Coco Lectric, Texas Performer of the Year 2010, at one of two meet and greets to be held at event: one during the day, and one in the evening.  Grab the new issue and get an autograph!

For more details, please visit HotRodsandHeels.com

Editor’s Note: This just a small part of the interview & photoshoot, for the full reveal (literally) get your hands on a copy of the Best of Spring 2011 online or at our Issue Release Party at Hot Rods and Heels 2011!

Miss Coco Lectric, crowned Texas Performer of the Year at Hot Rods and Heels 2010, talks titles as currency, travel, and the burlesque community evolving.

Interview: Divertida Divotchka. Photos: DallasPinUp.com

My goodness a lot has changed for you since Pin Curl last spoke to you.  You were crowned Queen of Burlesque in New Orleans last September.  How have titles changed things for you?

The biggest change is being held to a higher standard every time I hit the stage. When someone introduces you as the Queen of Burlesque, the audience sets their expectations a little bit higher. They’re expecting to be blown away. I don’t know if I’ve always been able to live up to this higher standard, but I’ve certainly tried.

Producers have also had a good excuse to hire me for their shows, since the New Orleans festival, which has given me the good fortune of making burlesque my full-time job. Having titles is like currency in this business and everyone wants to see for themselves what all the fuss is about. I’d become accustomed to performing for an unassuming audience, and these days they prepare themselves to see something spectacular. I have to bring it just a little bit harder every show to live up to their expectations.

Congratulations on being voted number 13 in 21^st Century Burlesque’s Top 50 for 2010! We’re so thrilled to hear the news, what’s your reaction?

I was thrilled! I didn’t lobby for votes and I really didn’t expect to see my name on the list at all. I don’t know what happened, to be honest. I was watching the list and cheering on my pals, for sure. After it got to the top twenty performers I figured that I didn’t have a chance. I feel truly honored that so many people even know that I exist, let alone like my work. I’m still sort of in shock about it and I thank 21st Century Burlesque for always having such kind words to say about me. They’re doing great work to get the word out about so many talented performers and promote burlesque around the globe, and that’s priceless.

I’m told you’re focusing more on the education realm at the moment. As headmistress of the Austin Academy of Burlesque, do you mean teaching more, taking more classes/workshops, or both?

I love teaching and I love learning, so I plan on doing a lot of both. Learning from the legends and contemporary performers is key to keeping burlesque alive and well. It allows the community to grow and shape the art. Burlesque performers are like a family in a lot of ways, only we’re not born into it as much as we’re brought in by learning from the life and art of those who came before. I’m proud to be a part of this family, and by teaching I get to help other burlesque performers and students with the lessons I’ve learned from the greats.

In your last Pin Curl interview from July 2010, when asked about being the only Texan to perform at Burlesque Hall of Fame weekend in Las Vegas you said, “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.” Considering that you’re performing in the Reigning Queen of Burlesque competition at this year’s BHOF weekend, it would be safe to say you made quite a splash, don’t you think?

I’m delighted to be performing in the competition this year. It seems as though the selection committee is looking a little harder at Texas performers, which is exciting to all of us in the Lone Star State. Congratulations in particular to my friend and colleague Ginger Valentine, who was chosen to perform in the debut category this year. I have high hopes that we’ll rock Saturday night and encourage performers from out of state to come to Texas and perform with us, too.

As always, you’re a remarkably busy woman. You said in your most recent Pin Curl interview that you were making festivals a priority, and boy did you ever! You’ve traveled all over the place this year, including Key West, LA, San Diego, Chicago, Albuquerque, Atlanta, Denver, New Orleans, Las Vegas, all over Texas, and plenty more that I likely missed. How do you manage to keep everything balanced?

This year I’ve had no choice but to take everything one step at a time. It’s wonderful that I get to do what I love, I wouldn’t change a thing, but I’ve had to remind myself more than a couple of times to breathe. I also remind myself that if I ever get tired of doing burlesque I can just stop, but I don’t think I’m in danger of that. It’s still the first thing I think about when I wake up and the last thing on my mind as I fall asleep. It’s my absolute dream job and I am so thankful that I can tour so much and make friends with performers all over the world. I suppose I manage to balance the craziness because this is my chosen profession and lifestyle and I’d like it to stay that way for as long as the universe allows.

The Jigglewatts, the Austin burlesque troupe you co-founded, was voted best burlesque troupe in Texas at Hot Rods and Heels last year and is also a finalist for the same award in this year’s event. How have the Jigglewatts evolved in recent years?

We’re constantly evolving because we recruit such great performers. Miss Ruby Joule and I love being solo performers, but having a group is so rewarding and allows us to reach more people. Selecting new Jigglewatts is a process, and in the five years we’ve been producing shows we realize how important it is to have a troupe full of headliners who all just happen to get along. We need to keep the cast small and everyone needs to be confident in their abilities and recognize how valuable their individual talents are to the group as a whole. This year we added Jolie Ampere Goodnight and Ruby Lamb to our cast and 2010 Jigglewatts Pearl Lux and Goldie Candela will be performing again with us very soon. We recognize that as a group we’re so much more powerful and entertaining than we are individually. The Jigglewatts mission has always been to support the beauty and talent in other women, and it might be a little hard to do that without showcasing as many different beautiful and talented performers as we can.

Anything you’d like to add?
The burlesque world changes and grows constantly, and with its increase in popularity there’s an opportunity for the community to come closer together and there’s also more potential for the genre to grow. It’s our responsibility as the current burlesque community to work together and help it become the best and most wonderful thing it can be. I understand that there’s been some concern about the recent increase in the popularity of burlesque and a lot of us are afraid that it will morph into something new and different and unappealing to those of us in the field now. I feel strongly that if we stay true to our studies and our roots and we keep our eyes open to the world around us, we will be able to help guide the art form as it develops. We just have to continue to support each other.

Oh, and I love Pin Curl! Thank you for all the great things you do in the community, and for working so hard to promote burlesque as the wonderful art form it is. See you May 21st!

Find the full interview & photo shoot here!

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.

Bondi Holly, Hot Rods and Heels Texas Pin-Up Model One to Watch 2010 (Newcomer Category), graces the cover or our June Issue and talks bloody noses, “cute”, movie credits, and breeders.

Interview & Photographs: Shoshana, of Through the Looking Glass Swimsuit on cover: Tara Tonini

Q: You’re a small town girl who moved around alot as a kid.  Where are you from, and where do you consider home?

I am from Corsicana Texas and at this point, I consider Dallas to be my home. 
                          
Q: When we met at the shoot, you said that “you grew up fast as a punk rock kid in Dallas”.  Who are some of your favorite bands?  What are some of your favorite live show memories?
 
Back in those days, we hardly knew who was playing. Just went for a good time, lots of local stuff. It was always fun getting in the pit. Got a bloody nose a few times, but luckily never broke it.
                                    
Q: You are a hairstylist by day, and you said it was your love of period hairstyles that brought you to pin-up modeling.  How so?

It all started when I was little. I Love Lucy played every night on one of the few stations we could get. I always watched the old Batman series and Julie Newmar won me over! I noticed how different everyone looked. I started altering my Barbie dolls until they eventually looked mutilated. Their heads are so tiny, you can only do so much! Lucky for me, I had 3 sisters and a Grandma that would let me fix their hair and that held me over for a bit.

Q: Upon entering the world of pin-up modeling, you took the name Bondi Holly.  Ok, so I get the obvious Buddy Holly reference, but you have an interesting story as to how you came up with the “Bondi” part, as opposed to something more obvious like “Betty”.  Can you share your obsession for reading movie credits and how that led to your name?

I was watching It’s a Wonderful Life. I liked it and per usual watched the movie credits. The actress Beulah Bondi played the mother and I really liked her name. This was about the time I was told to pick a stage name. Beulah isn’t really a name we associate with attractive people these days, but Bondi really stuck with me. It’s like Betty with a twist. It definitely gets the imagination going.

Q: You’ve said that you’re much better at Cheesecake then the “sexy thing”.  Why do you think that is? 

I’ve always been called cute. I don’t mind that at all, it matches my personality. I never saw myself as sexy. I suppose it is all perception. Cheesecake is cute, fun and playful. It comes more natural to me. It’s easier to project who you really are, I think anybody could say that. Then again, that’s why it’s called modeling, not, look cute for the camera.   
 
Q: One photographer managed to get the sexy side out of you, and you said it took all day.  What was that process like, what finally worked?

There really wasn’t a process. It came down to, I’m going to get her out of you and we’re not done until I do. I had to break out of my cutesy stage and realize that as a model, this was expected of me and if I couldn’t do it, then maybe I shouldn’t be! It was like the next step for me. At first I felt silly but my brain kicked my skull and I just did it!                                       
 
Q: What are the traits of some of your favorite photographers?
 
I like a photographer that welcomes you and makes you feel good about your body, naturally. Modeling is great because it takes all shapes and sizes; you don’t want to look generic. You don t want to work with anyone that tries to persuade you out of your comfort zone. 

Q: This year found you a finalist for Hot Rods and Heels Newcomer Pin-Up Model of the Year (One to Watch).  How do you feel upon hearing the news?

I am absolutely thrilled! It was the last thing I expected and am grateful to have gotten this far! I’ve had so much encouragement from my family, friends and especially my boyfriend Paul. It really means alot to me! 

 
Q: You come from a large family as does your boyfriend.  With a sigh you admitted that “at heart I am a breeder”.  Do you have plans to start a family soon?  What is it about the idea of motherhood that appeals to you so?
 
I do have a large family and I love it! I wouldn’t say that my boyfriend came from a large family. Loving, but not large. The term breeder is an on-going joke at my salon.

I don’t have plans to start a family anytime soon but definitely sometime down the road.  When I was growing up, I assumed that all women had children! I certainly don’t have that mentality now. It’s appealing on the level that it seems to be the most natural thing in the world. I see happiness in people that they only get from their children. All the baby vomit and stinky diapers aren’t so appetizing but like anything you don’t like, you get over it.  

Q: What’s your biggest dream? 

My biggest dream…I feel like I am where I want to be which is a good start. It is hard to say what my biggest dream is because I like to take things one step at a time. Sometimes you have to step sideways or over obstacles. It s good to have a goal and go for it but there are no guarantees. I m so happy with my life I can t really say what I would like next!  

Hot Rods and Heels Recap

By: Hella Goode Photos: Mark Kaplan

Hot Rods and Heels, billed the largest pin-up festival in Texas, is an annual event that takes place every May in Dallas. The Lakewood Theater, a historic East Dallas Theater was home to the annual gathering, and while turnout was about the same as last years’ event, the much larger venue allowed for more breathing room than past event, and as one vendor put it — “Thank God — It’s not all assholes and elbows”. [Her colorful way of giving the thumbs up to a larger venue that was less crowded.]

The daytime activities included a car show- which boasted the Lucky 13 car club, as well as individual owners who had caught word of the festival and brought their mint condition hot rods in for the day. The daytime goers seemed to hang out outside with the hot rod show, as opposed to taking advantage of the workshops going on inside the theater; but by the 7pm Model showcase and runway fashion show, which was emceed by Dayna Delux, the entire crowd had filtered inside, and stayed planted for the 23 act burlesque show that followed; although the crowd thinned out a bit towards the end of the night when the show ran much later than the promised 11pm end time.

While staying true to the all Texan line-up that Hot Rods and Heels prides itself on, they did manage to encompass even more Texas cities this year, with performances representing Houston, Corpus Christi, Dallas, Austin, and Denton. The knock-out performances that drove the audience wild and got the loudest applause were Pixie O’ Kneel’s Car Wash Number, Coco Lectric’s Snake Charmer, Rosie Rawhyde’s classic piece, and Nick’s surprise Michael Jackson tribute.

While it was mainly industry types that stuck around for the awards ceremony, the loving energy was almost tangible. Congratulations to Coco Lectric, who took home the Performer of the Year title, Angela Ryan who won Pin-Up Model of the Year, and Austin’s The Jiggle Watts for best troupe. The newcomer category — One to Watch — went to burlesque entertainer Bunny Bailey and Pin-Up model Bondi Holly. Perhaps the largest applause of the night was for the surprise winner — Mark Kaplan of NakedLens.org who took home the Darling of the Year award.

Pegasus News summed up the night as, “The best pin-up show I have ever seen.” And I tend to agree. This is an event not to be missed, and I can’t wait until next year!

It’s that time again ladies- time for a brand spankin’ new print edition of Pin Curl Magazine! Our Best of Spring 2010 Issue will celebrate its release on May 15th at Hot Rods and Heels 2010 at the Lakewood Theater in Dallas. Our cover gal Miss Cardinal Cyn will be on hand to autograph your issue!

This issue is jam packed with the best from the winter and spring online issues as well as brand new material you won’t find anywhere else! You’ll find everything from our spotlight interviews with fabulous gals like Dirty Martini and Masuimi Max, to DIY Beauty and Entertaining Tips, Pin-Up Modeling Tips and Tricks, Herstory articles on the legends, and much, much, more! Come on out to our booth, and say hi- we’d love to see ya!

Hot Rods and Heels 2010 Schedule:

Doors open at 4pm. The first 25 gals in the door receive a swag bag stuffed with fabulous goodies!

Daytime Activities:
Hot Rod Car Show, Shopping with fabulous local vintage vendors, Pin Curl Issue Release Party with Cardinal Cyn, Workshops, and Pin-Up Photoshoots.

Workshops happen every 30 min and will include Pin-Up Makeup, Pin-Up Posing, a Dr Sketchy’s Session and more!

Evening Activities:
Model Showcase emceed by Dayna Delux and live Burlesque Show with over 20 of the best performers from all over Texas!

You can get all of the info at HotRodsandHeels.com

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