Known as “the gem you’d love to polish,” Texas Burlesque Performer of the Year 2011 Ruby Joule talks bed sheet corsets, shattered bones, cop dramas, biker bars, and reckless abandon.

Interview: Divertida Devotchka

Q: First of all, congratulations on being voted Texas Burlesque Performer of the Year at last month’s 3^rd Annual Hot Rods and Heels! As if that weren’t enough, the troupe you co-founded, The Jigglewatts, won Texas Troupe of the Year for the second year in a row! That’s quite an accomplishment! Care to comment on this achievement?

Thank you so much! We all work so hard at this art form, and it’s wonderful to be acknowledged.  It was quite an honor to be named among other performers who dazzle and inspire me on a regular basis.  I am extremely flattered to have won the award.  The Jigglewatts is an endeavor I’m especially proud of.  We’re celebrating our five-year anniversary this year and that in itself is huge to me! I’m so grateful that even with all of our solo projects, we’re also able to function together as a strong troupe.

Q: In your last interview with Pin Curl, you mentioned that you make and re-purpose all of your costumes and props. Now that you’ve become a national presence in the burlesque world, are you still creating everything yourself? If so, do you intend to continue doing it yourself, or do you think at some point you’ll have to commission assistance to get your ideal costumes and props as your visions grow bigger and bigger?

Yes, I’m still doing it the old-fashioned way, haha!  My costumes are all self-made collages in one way or another.  Practically speaking, I don’t think I could properly explain to another person exactly what I want in a costume.  Although, I did a fashion show this year where I was asked to do a burlesque striptease out of a specially designed wedding gown to Billy Idol’s “White Wedding” as the finale of the show.  The designer and I met several times for fittings, and I explained how I needed zippers and trouser hooks on each piece… I admit it was a luxury not having to do all that myself; I felt so pampered! I can also definitely see the benefit to having custom created corsetry– that is something I would never attempt… again.  When I was about 13, I tried to make a corset out of fabric from an old bedsheet and some boning I found in my grandmother’s sewing chest.  I wanted a corset so badly, I was determined to make one myself!  I would definitely commission a prop maker, as I have little to no experience there, especially with the big props!

Q: What is your advice for gals whose budgets are much smaller than their dream costumes and props?

I was once lamenting this very thing when a wise producer told me, “creativity goes a long way in making up for what you lack in budget.”  I would say don’t underestimate the treasure trove that a thrift store can be. You can find pieces to repurpose and amazing one-of-a-kind fabrics.  Also, think quality rather than quantity. Maybe your costume doesn’t need 20 layers; you can have just a few pieces that look really stunning.  Also, you might be able to collaborate with a designer who wants to get their name out there, and split the cost of materials.  It can be an expensive art form, that’s for sure.

Q: Also in your previous feature with us, you mentioned that a devastating foot injury when you were a teen led you to shift focus from ballet to theater and other “less punishing” dance styles. If you don’t mind me asking, what kind of injury did you sustain and how long did it take for you to recuperate? I ask because after watching you perform numerous times, I would have never guessed about any injury, let alone such a serious one.

I was in ballet rehearsal one day and just happened to land a jump wrong.  It sent three cracks through my heel bone, effectively shattering it.  We didn’t realize anything serious was wrong until after I had walked around on it for several days and the pain and swelling got really bad.  I had to drop out of the ballet performance and hobble around in a cast for several weeks.  I was young so I bounced back, but classical ballet is so hard on the body, the feet and knees in particular.  I guess maybe it happened at a crucial age, because my dancing was never the same.  Everything happens for a reason though, and I’m glad I’ve gotten to explore and love other types of performance.

Q: Not only are you an award-winning burlesque performer, but you’re also an accomplished actress on stage and screen as well as a model. Tell us about your acting pursuits as of late, as I’ve heard you’ve been quite busy!

Ah yes! There have been some exciting projects lately in television, film, and modeling.  I got to co-star as the girlfriend of an arms dealer on NBC’s cop drama, Chase, about U.S. Marshals working in Texas.  When we filmed, I had to wear a tiny microphone pinned to the inside of my shirt so they could get a clean capture of my lines, but the wire it was attached to had to be hidden in my wardrobe.  We ended up snaking the wire down the leg of my skinny jeans– quite an absurd and silly process, and hiding the rest in my boot!  The episode aired in early May.  I was also in a film called Natural Selection, a southern dramedy starring Rachael Harris (the mean fiancé from The Hangover), and Matt O’Leary (Sorority Row). I played a trashy girl who hustles the male lead in a biker bar, then makes off with all his money and his car. Charming, right?  My only complaint was that wardrobe had me wearing flip flops and a denim mini skirt.  You’d never wear that to a biker bar! Not if you planned on getting a ride, anyway. I’m very happy for this film, as it swept the awards at the SXSW film festival and has been selected for many other prestigious festivals. Variety predicts that it will land distribution soon, so fingers crossed.  In fashion, I’m thrilled to be working with couture designer Boudoir Queen.  I walked the runway for her “Secret Circus” event here in Austin in February, and am traveling with her to Aspen in August for another fashion event. Her designs are pure decadence with a burlesque twist.

Q: You’ve been traveling and performing all over in the last year or two. Other than your multiple performances in New Orleans with Bustout Burlesque and the New Orleans Burlesque Festival, where else have you been?

Oh, travel is one of my headiest addictions! In the past year I’ve gotten to travel and perform in Chicago with Michelle L’Amour, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and… Norman, Oklahoma!

Q: While doing my research, I was interested in a quote from another interview of yours, in which you said that your primary inspiration comes from the audience as opposed to anything else, and that it’s crucial for a performer to connect with his or her audience. What advice do you have for newer performers who are trying to learn the art of making that connection?

It takes practice, so keep trying! The first time I stepped out on a burlesque stage I didn’t expect to be frightened, but I was terrified! There’s something very raw and vulnerable about burlesque because in most cases, all the creative decisions are your own.  There’s no other writer or director responsible if it doesn’t work. It can be tempting to shut down emotionally and just give a pretty “presentation” rather than engaging the audience in your performance. In any type of theatre, burlesque included, the audience wants to be moved. They want to have an experience that makes them feel something! Delight, surprise, longing, ferocity, reckless abandon?  Whatever your goal is, you must take yourself there first! Make yourself feel it, and the audience will come along. It’s human nature.  You can learn to read an audience– sometimes they’re quiet and reserved, which does not mean they don’t like you, contrary to popular belief.  It may mean you have to play it coy, flirt with them in a different way. Maybe they’re just mesmerized!  Go see other burlesque shows and observe the audiences, how they react, what draws them in.

Q: What’s next for Ruby Joule?

Oh, so much my head is spinning! But I’m grateful to be so busy doing what I love.  There will be more travel; to New Orleans and Toronto for festivals, and Aspen for a fashion event.  I’m also working with a brilliant artist who is creating fine art pieces and a comic character based on my burlesque work.  I hope to incorporate more vocals into my acts as well.  Maybe it’s my theatrical roots, but I love talking to the audience a la Gypsy Rose Lee and Blaze Starr.

We asked Austin native Ruby Joule, The Gem You’d Love to Polish, to put together her Glamma Gal’s Guide to Austin to help you get the most out of your visit to Texas Burlesque Festival!

I grew up in Austin, and though I’ve traveled ‘round the world, I love coming home to “The Violet Crown” as it was once called.  The city has many treasures and breathtaking vistas, but here are a few of the essential highlights…

The Austin Chronicle – To get acclimated to the city and its vibe right away, I’d recommend picking up a copy of this free weekly paper.  It’s available at over 1500 locations around town; cafés, shops, groceries, etc.  It has all the music listings, a killer horoscope, and all the current issues the cool kids are buzzing about.

Coco Coquette

2109 E. Cesar Chavez, Austin, TX 78702

Coco Coquette is run by Allyson Garro, former member of Velvet Hammer Burlesque in LA and The Shim Shamettes in New Orleans, and boy does she know what a glamma girl wants!  Her little place is home to a salon, vintage clothing, and some of the most imaginative, magnificent handmade wigs, accessories, and perfume you’ll find.

Lucy in Disguise

1506 S. Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704

Described as “Woodstock meets Las Vegas,” this is hands-down the best costume shop in town. No flammable catalogue costumes here, this is the real thing available for rent or purchase.  They carry a staggering array of costumes for any theme; accessories, even special effects makeup and masks.

Amelia’s Retro-Vogue & Relics

2213 S. 1^st St., Austin, TX 78704

The Best Vintage Shop award goes to Amelia’s.  Specializing in vintage fashion from the mid-1800s to mid-1900s, Amelia’s has long been used as a resource for designers in the film, theatre and fashion worlds.  The high quality of its stock has garnered an international reputation, and there seems to be a growing selection of hats and incredible handbags.

The Bazaar/The Bazaar Backstage

1609 E. Riverside Dr., Austin, TX 78741

Off-the-rack costumes aside, The Bazaar is my favorite “stripper store” in town, offering unique accessories, great selection of stockings and some wonderful gowns for après show. The Bazaar Backstage, located in a little building right next door, has a huge selection of wigs and all the glittery, shimmery stage makeup you’d ever need.

Designer Exchange

7739 Northcross Dr., Suite S, Austin, TX 78757

I admit, I hesitated one moment before letting you in on this one, but I just can’t keep this place all to myself! This consignment boutique outlet has the best value in designer formal gowns I’ve ever found. They also have furs, jewelry, and casual wear, but it’s the gowns I’m interested in! Bridal gowns, pageant and formal gowns, cocktail dresses—whether for stage or après show, you’ll find something stunning and cost-effective here.

Once all that shopping works up an appetite…

Justine’s Brasserie

4710 E. 5^th St., Austin, TX 78702

Old fashioned French comfort food served alongside decidedly glamorous cocktails.  A converted 1937 bungalow, part of the mystique of Justine’s is the sense that you’re in the middle of nowhere, yet you’re surrounded by an international and chic crowd of other folks “in the know.”  Try the duck confit, it is superb!

The Good Knight

1300 E. 6^th St. Austin, TX 78702

Classic cocktails and comfort food for the gourmand, this little hideaway conjures images of a Parisian rendezvous with its secluded dark little booths hung with drapery.  The lighting is very flattering, the food is delish and not too pricey, and the cocktail mixology is delightful. One of my favorite spots!

Rio Rita

1308 E. 6^th St., Austin, TX 78702

A coffee shop that also serves champagne? Yes please! Described as “a mild mannered coffee shop by day, swanky lounge by night,” this place lives up to the tagline. It is one of my favorite cafes, with darling themed retro seating areas and even a giant painting of Audrey Hepburn a la Holly Golightly. Just look for the antique 7-Up sign and you’re there!

Swan Dive

615 Red River St., Austin, TX 78701

A true glamma girl’s haven, with a charmingly distressed finish.  This bar and live music venue invites you into an ethereal dream world of all-white décor, soft light, and delicious cocktails—many of which are served in old-fashioned champagne coupes.  Have the French 75!

The Highball

1142 S. Lamar, Austin, TX 78704

This is a “diner” as the Rat Pack would have imagined it, swanky mid-century modern décor and all.  Sure they serve great food, but there’s also a huge bar, 8 lanes of bowling, a ballroom for live music and dancing and themed private karaoke rooms upstairs.

You may also need…

Zilker Botanical Gardens

2220 Barton Springs Rd., Austin, TX 78746

If you need to get back to the beauty of nature or restore your inner “fairy princess,” this is the place.  I grew up in a neighborhood close by and remember magical hours spent here.  Created in 1955, the gardens now include a prehistoric garden, herb and fragrance garden, butterfly garden and trail, rose garden, and my favorite, the Isamu Tanaguchi Oriental Garden—all flowing seamlessly one into another under a lush canopy of live oak trees.

24-hour eateries:

In the wee small hours, you needn’t resort to IHOP or Denny’s.  Just punch this into your GPS or tell the Cabbie:

Magnolia Café (the spinach artichoke dip is divoon!)

1920 S. Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704

2304 Lake Austin Blvd, Austin, TX 78703

Kerbey Lane

2700 S. Lamar, Austin, TX 78704

2606 Guadalupe, Austin, TX 78705

3704 Kerbey Lane, Austin, TX 78731

Star Seeds

3101 N. I-35, Austin, TX 78722

Diner 24 (a bit fancy for a diner, but good)

600 N. Lamar, Austin, TX 78703

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.

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

Photo: Through the Looking Glass

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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