The Candy Pitch

Video of the Week

2010-12-29T09:16:00.000-05:00

Revealing Images: Ursulina

2010-12-28T10:03:00.000-05:00

In Revealing Images, photographer Don Spiro dishes up sweet photographic treats and the stories behind them. Today, Don aims his lens at Ursulina of the Velvet Hammer.

This was another photo from the first shoot I did for the Velvet Hammer program, back in 2001. Rita d’Albert, who now co-produces Lucha Va Voom, was a co-producer of the Velvet Hammer Burlesque troupe and performed in it as well, as Ursulina. The number she was doing at this particular show was inspired by Marie Antoinette, and she had an intricate, period style costume to accomplish it.

For the photo she wore the costume with metal panniers and an extremely large hat with ostrich plumes. It reminded me of Norma Shearer in the 1938 film “Marie Antoinette,” and I knew Rita also loved old Hollywood glamour, so that’s how we decided to shoot it.

She sat on a stool against a black backdrop, angled slightly to the side with her feet together, holding a small cane. Her confident expression was directed right into the camera lens.

Since Rita has great natural features and good cheekbones, I placed the key light very high and to the left of camera. The direction of the beam was in line with her face so a small shadow of her nose was placed directly above her lips, reminiscent of how Sternberg lit Dietrich in the thirties. The light was hard and created great texture, with crisp shadow lines and plenty of contrast. I added a snoot to create more of a pool of light, allowing the edges by the top of her hat and her legs below the knew too fade slowly into the darkness.

I wanted to make her glow like in old glamour stills, so I added a second light to the right of frame, just at her shoulder level. This created the glow I wanted, blowing out the highlights in her hair, hand, and parts of her ruffled dress. It also accentuated her cleavage, which had been already enhanced by the corset she wore.

I set the lens so that her face would be two stops over exposed, and the highlights would be four stops overexposed. This let me see into the shadows but keep the background dark. I wanted it to be perfect because the image would not only be used in programs, but also as 8 x 10s, and this was the day before digital, when the negative had to be duped and blown up to 8 x 10 to create prints.

Rita has been one of my most critical models, both of my work and her own, and I really think it raises the bar. This was actually our second shoot for the program, she had looked at tests from the first shoot and decided the make up wasn’t up to her standards.

I miss those days, when we had to be conservative with film and try to make every picture count, then wait several days to receive and examine every frame of a contact sheet, debating which image to circle with a grease pencil and pick for printing. You never knew if you really had the shot until then so you had to rely on your talent, skill and experience. I’m grateful that I started in that era: I think it makes my current digital work better and informs my style.

~Don Spiro

The Candy Gram: Chastity Chaos

2010-12-24T10:49:00.000-05:00

Video of the Week

2010-12-22T09:31:00.000-05:00

Revealing Images: Gigi La Femme

2010-12-21T10:00:00.000-05:00

In Revealing Images, photographer Don Spiro dishes up sweet photographic treats and the stories behind them. Today, Don aims his lens at Gigi La Femme

Gigi La Femme recently posed for a series I’ve been working on using vintage 4 x 5 cameras and black and white Polaroid film, which has since been discontinued. She has the perfect pin-up figure, so in addition to this, I also shot some digital color pin-ups with a vintage flavor.

We had just shot some photos of Gigi with white ostrich plume fans and a pale blond wig, and when she changed into her red and white lingerie she kept the wig. I took the vintage press camera I had been using and set it up on an antique tripod as a prop, using a small rug as a tripod spreader. The set was a pale goldenrod wall and a hardwood floor.

I used a simple cross-light of two lights at forty-five degree angles to Gigi, bounced into reflective umbrellas. The one to the right of camera was a little below eye level, the one to the left was a little above, bouncing off the white ceiling and flooding the room with soft light, but still modeling the curves of her body.

I kept my camera distant and at the level of her waist to make her seem long and leggy. Having her pose with one knee crossed over the other to show off the lines of her legs, I asked her to place one hand on her hip, raise the camera cable release and smile at the camera as if she was taking a picture of me. Simple and elegant without any retouching, it is one of my favorite recent pin-ups.

~Don Spiro

Dirty's Ditty

2010-12-18T10:00:00.000-05:00

Did you know Dirty Martini can sing too? The burly queen partnered with the Baron of Weird for Naked Time, which you can listen to here. And don't miss them performing at Vandam in NYC tomorrow night.

The Candy Gram: Sydni Deveraux

2010-12-17T10:00:00.003-05:00

In our ongoing Q&A series --"The Candy Gram"-- we ask the same quirky questions of burlesque's various performers. If you want to be added to the mix, drop us a line at kellydinardo AT gmail DOT com. Today, say hello to Sydni Devaraux.

What is your hometown?
Seattle, Washington

How long have you been interested in burlesque/performing?
I performed in plays and did recitals as flutist in childhood until I hit high school and found the wonderful world of Jazz. I'd always been interested in singing and did behind closed doors, though it wasn't until I sang the National Anthem at an assembly and a wonderful teacher by the name of Mr. Brown came up to me and suggested that I perform in his vocal jazz group-did I think being on a stage expressing myself was really possible. From the world of singing jazz I found burlesque. I think I always knew what burlesque was in the back of my head-but it wasn't until I heard that beautiful women in lovely costumes and jewelery were dancing to the music that I was having a love affair with did I actually seek it out. I mean, to me, burlesque was everything I loved-music, movement, glamour and wit. Finding that those all existed in this world was ecstasy.

How many pairs of pasties do you own?
Probably about 15 though I favor about 5 pairs that are completely covered in rhinestones. Rhinestones really make pasties fantastic!

What are your three favorite songs to perform to?
Anything with an excellent beat and a dynamic melody! I mean, my three most well known acts are to Shake Your Lovemaker by Cherry Poppin' Daddies, Magdalenha by Sergio Mendez and Fat Bottom Girls by Queen. I love to have diverse acts.

What three items could you not live without as a performer?
Fake eyelashes, my music, and perhaps a shimmy belt. When I'm cranky or in a bad mood it's a lot of fun to slip one on and bop around the house to some music. I'm happy in no time!

Who had the biggest influence on your career?
I think it's a tie between 4 people: Catherine D'Lish, Dirty Martini, Tigger!, and Julie Atlas Muz. Watching them perform is so wonderful, and they make everything look so easy-it's very clear that they enjoy what they do. I love to see performers where personalities shine, and their stage presence is larger than life. Seeing these performers made it clear I needed to stay true to the things I love, no matter how wacky my ideas can be.

Who is your favorite burly queen?
This question is simply unfair! But I'll play your game and name a legend from the past, as clearly she's still a diva: Tiffany Carter. That woman simply blows my mind. Seeing her perform at BHOF 2009 was simply divine. Her movements are so smooth, her smile so bright-I have a mad crush on her. It's probably a good thing I didn't know her when she was younger. I probably would have said something improper!

What is your favorite item of clothing?
I have this red wiggle dress that I can wear and instantly feel sexy and wonderful. It doesn't even matter if I'm in my show makeup or date makeup-that dress looks smashing on me.

What’s the last movie you saw?
The documentary on Metallica. So fascinating.

What’s on your must-see-TV list?
Pretty much everything on the Bravo channel. It has Top Chef, the Real Housewives series, Rachel Zoe.... That channel rocks my world.

What book is on your nightstand?
2 books: Horrible Prettiness by Robert Allen, and Surviving your Saturn Return by Schostak and Weiss.

If you could go anywhere for vacation, where would you go?
Pretty much anywhere with a great dance party, a delicious Manhattan and an intoxicating city scape. Those twinkling lights full of possibilities are so magical! Exploring cities is one of my favorite things to do when I'm not performing.

If you could have any superpower, which one would you want? Why?
The power of persuasion. I mean, then you could just walk into Tiffany's and convince someone that they should give you a diamond ring and then go to Louis Vuitton and persuade them to sponsor a fabulous burlesque tour around the world-with their luggage, of course! I suppose this power could get out of hand...but I'm capable of having some restraint!

Satisfy your appetite for more Candy Grams: Maria May I, La Cholita, Gentry de Paris, Jade Pearl, Kitten DeVille, Miss C, Immodesty Blaize, Nasty Canasta, Vivienne Vermuth, Scarlett James, Tura Santana, Tatah DuJour, Susie Caboose, Gigi La Femme, Kitten on the Keys, Virginia D'Vine, Tamara the Trapeze Lady, Champagne Sparkles, Selia Carmichael, Pyra Sutra, Roxi Dlite, Scarlet O'Gasm, Bombshell Betty, Foxy Moxy, Bambi Galore, Mis Rosie Bitts, Sahara Dunes, Mimi Rockafellar, Baby Le Strange, Rose Darling, Satan's Angel, Ophelia Flame, Panache La Plume, Ginger Valentine, Madame Rosebud, Little Brooklyn, Victoria Veneance, Sauci Calla Horra, Penny Starr Jr., Gemma Parker, Darla DeVine, Sparkly Devil, Vivienne VaVoom, Lux LaCroix, Charlotte La Belle Araignee, Bunny Love, Amber Topaz, Amelie Soleil, Red Hot Annie, HoneyLu, Kimberlee Rose, Vicky Butterfly, Dominique Immora, Yasmine Vine, Cherry Bomb, Millie Dollar, Joanie Gyoza, Bonbon Vivant, Lola Martinet, Frankie Boudoir, Vixen Violette, Ravenna Black, Veronica Lashe, Amber Ray, Beatrix von Bourbon, Angie Pontani, Tanya Cheex, Bloody Belle, Clams Casino, Trixie Little, Michelle L'Amour, Margaret Cho, Miss Dirty Martini, Princess Farhana, Miss Delirium Tremens, Paris Green, Jo Boobs, Jack Midnight, Heidi Von Haught, Diamond Minx, The Titillation Twins, Scratch, Creamy Stevens and Gina Louise.

How To Burlesque: Approach Basic Choreography

2010-12-16T09:26:00.000-05:00

In our column How To Burlesque, Miss Frankie Tease, left, brings you tips and advice on a mishmash of burly topics. Today, she dishes on how to approach basic choreography.

There are two approaches to choreography: one is to have the music first, the other is to have the costume and then find music to fit. This all depends upon the nature of the situation. If you are preparing for a show, they may ask you to choreograph to specific music. In this case the costume will be tailored to the music assignment. If you have your costume or prop first, then you will be searching for the tunes that accompany your idea. Mainly go in search of the mood that you want to convey with your prop, find music to match it. Many advanced and successful performers tend to use music without words, so that they are actually the star of the song, not the words, but this is by no means a rule. Just something I've noticed through time. This allows some tight and some looser choreography. In other words, the audience wouldn't know if you missed a cue, because there are no lyrics, just instruments.

I like to take things in simple sections: beginning, middle, and end. If you have a prop that you need to work into your act then listen to the song with intent to discover how it works in. Is there a natural point where it goes together? If you have a reveal or strip tease trick that you want to accomplish, make this toward the end way after the middle.

Treat the three sections as: ONE: Warm-Up/Strut TWO: Surprise or trick THREE: Reveal/Finale'. Keeping things simple will make your act remembered. Making sure the audience can follow you and not going too fast is an important part of choreography. If it's too fancy or fast, they might actually miss what you're doing, and it's for them so that's not good. Complicated is good, but make sure you've established a little rapport with your audience before launching anything too tricky. It allows them to warm up to you and gets them ready to really take in what you have to show!

Video of the Week

2010-12-15T09:33:00.000-05:00

Revealing Images: Selene Luna

2010-12-14T10:00:00.000-05:00

In Revealing Images, photographer Don Spiro dishes up sweet photographic treats and the stories behind them. Today, Don aims his lens at Selene Luna, currently of the Margaret Cho show

One of my favorite shots I’ve done was of Selena Luna for Augusta’s Velvet Hammer documentary. Augusta directed her as her burlesque persona, Bobby Pinz, in a humorous homage to Attack of the Fifty Foot Woman.

Because of the requirements of the shoot everything was based around a location that would work, and we found one in the hills of Burbank that was both secluded and offered a low horizon line. This was critical because we intended to use forced perspective to make Selene appear gigantic, which depended on having a background clear of objects that would destroy the illusion. The angle was chosen carefully to exploit the natural advantages of the set. The crew was small, just Selene, Augusta, our make up artist and myself.

The position of the sun was up to frame left at the time we chose to shoot, and its arc would stay on that side all day, so I used that as the key light. While Selene got into make up and wardrobe Augusta designed the set: small, scale toy buildings and lichen from a model railroad, which Selene would walk amongst and occasionally crush. I set the camera down near ground level, which would simulate eye level of the buildings, and put on a wide angle lens to shoot looking up at Selene as she posed. I kept the camera mostly horizontal to emulate the aspect ratio of movies and tv.

The way Augusta had placed the set enabled us to incorporate actual elements in the distance, including far away trees, hills, and even telephone poles. Due to the angle they didn’t appear so much far away as they did small in comparison to Selene. They seemed the same scale as our small model buildings.

Because there were no clouds, just a bright blue sky, the sun threw hard shadows in high contrast. To make the image more flattering a large white bounce-board filled in from the right side of the frame. The image was taken with 400 speed color film exposed at 320 to reduce grain a bit, but the fast speed let me to shoot at an aperture of f/22, allowing for maximum depth of field. I wanted everything to be in focus from the ground at Selene’s feet to the far distant tree tops.

During the video sequence a helicopter slowly crossed the frame, very far away. At our angle it appeared to be near Selene’s waistline, further extending the illusion of her as a giant. Because of the video aspect of the shoot everything had to be done in-camera, and I am glad that the stills were done the same way, without benefit of post production. To me, the illusion is best when a model can interact with an actual environment.

~Don Spiro

The Candy Gram: Stormy Leigh

2010-12-10T10:00:00.000-05:00

In our ongoing Q&A series --"The Candy Gram"-- we ask the same quirky questions of burlesque's various performers. If you want to be added to the mix, drop us a line at kellydinardo AT gmail DOT com. Today, say hello to Tucson's Stormy Leigh.

What is your hometown?

Tucson, Arizona.

How long have you been interested in burlesque/performing?

As a little girl I always enjoyed playing dress-up with a collection of vintage 50's and eccentric 60' era clothing my mom gave me. I think that must have stirred something in me! When burlesque came to Tucson in 2006 I had to give it a try, even though the thought of being nearly naked in a room full of strangers absolutely terrified me.

How many pairs of pasties do you own?

Probably close to twenty pair, including a few pair of ass tassels. I've coated them all in rhinestones and many of them also have hand-strung beaded tassels. They're truly boob (and butt) jewelry!

What are your three favorite songs to perform to?

Zorba the Greek by Herb Alpert
I'll Have What She's Having by The Millionaire
La Cucaracha by Manual Rivera and His Orchestra

What three items could you not live without as a performer?

False eyelashes, a sparkly costume, and my pasties.

Who had the biggest influence on your career?

My influences are all over the map! Comedians such as Benny Hill, Carol Burnett, Gilda Radner, Lucille Ball, and Bob Newhart are probably my biggest influences though. Then there were the countless musicals and old movies my dad and I watched together when I was little, with stars such as Cyd Charrise, Mae West, Fred Astaire, Carol Channing, Liza Minnelli, Gene Kelley, Ann Miller... I could go on and on! Also, all my fellow Black Cherry Burlesque troupe members, past and present have been, and continue to be an incredible inspiration to me as well.

Who is your favorite burly queen?

Past: Ricci Cortez. Present: Dirty Martini.

What is your favorite item of clothing?

Burlesque: My gold bra and hip wrap coated with pearl beads and mini tassels from my Greek Statue costume. Daily wear: Jeans, a t-shirt, and practical shoes.

What's the last movie you saw?

The 40-Year-Old Virgin, again! I like to put that one on while I cook dinner/sort laundry/be domestic around the house.

What's on your must-see-TV list?

I don't watch tv like I used to but still take time to catch David Letterman every now and then.

What book is on your nightstand?

Pretty Things by Liz Goldwyn. I really love this book.

If you could go anywhere for vacation, where would you go?

Someday I'd love to visit Italy and Greece, it would thrill me to no end to be able to see the Roman Colosseum and the Greek Temples in person.

If you could have any superpower, which one would you want? Why?

Time/space travel in a Delorean just like in Back to the Future! Imagine the possibilities... Getting to truly experience what life was like in simpler times, witnessing historic events, playing winning lottery numbers, ha ha...

Satisfy your appetite for more Candy Grams: Maria May I, La Cholita, Gentry de Paris, Jade Pearl, Kitten DeVille, Miss C, Immodesty Blaize, Nasty Canasta, Vivienne Vermuth, Scarlett James, Tura Santana, Tatah DuJour, Susie Caboose, Gigi La Femme, Kitten on the Keys, Virginia D'Vine, Tamara the Trapeze Lady, Champagne Sparkles, Selia Carmichael, Pyra Sutra, Roxi Dlite, Scarlet O'Gasm, Bombshell Betty, Foxy Moxy, Bambi Galore, Mis Rosie Bitts, Sahara Dunes, Mimi Rockafellar, Baby Le Strange, Rose Darling, Satan's Angel, Ophelia Flame, Panache La Plume, Ginger Valentine, Madame Rosebud, Little Brooklyn, Victoria Veneance, Sauci Calla Horra, Penny Starr Jr., Gemma Parker, Darla DeVine, Sparkly Devil, Vivienne VaVoom, Lux LaCroix, Charlotte La Belle Araignee, Bunny Love, Amber Topaz, Amelie Soleil, Red Hot Annie, HoneyLu, Kimberlee Rose, Vicky Butterfly, Dominique Immora, Yasmine Vine, Cherry Bomb, Millie Dollar, Joanie Gyoza, Bonbon Vivant, Lola Martinet, Frankie Boudoir, Vixen Violette, Ravenna Black, Veronica Lashe, Amber Ray, Beatrix von Bourbon, Angie Pontani, Tanya Cheex, Bloody Belle, Clams Casino, Trixie Little, Michelle L'Amour, Margaret Cho, Miss Dirty Martini, Princess Farhana, Miss Delirium Tremens, Paris Green, Jo Boobs, Jack Midnight, Heidi Von Haught, Diamond Minx, The Titillation Twins, Scratch, Creamy Stevens and Gina Louise.

How To Burlesque

2010-12-09T09:22:00.000-05:00

In our column How To Burlesque, Miss Frankie Tease, left, brings you tips and advice on a mishmash of burly topics. Today, she dishes on how to get booked.

You might have a great act, but what if no one sees? Here are a few ways to get booked, and booked again as a performer.

1. Be easy to reach once you're contacted. It's not a deal until it's a done deal. It's cool to be professional and answer show planning questions. This means no drama the night of the show. Changes happen and you'll want as much notice from the producer, so be reachable once you've made the commitment.

2. Have requested bio and photo information accessible on your website, or ready to send to the booker or producer. If they don't have the materials to promote you they may go searching and use a photo you have posted online and aren't fond of. Be sure to take control of your destiny by providing this material very quickly after you are booked, so as not to hold up the promotion team who's marketing your performance.

3. Let them know your staging or dressing room requests or requirements without being a diva.

4. Be prepared for anything - bring a back-up costume in case you have a wardrobe malfunction. You just never know what might happen en route, so just be as prepared as possible for with a contingency plan.

5. Follow up after the show. If you have been mailed a check, email or call to let them know you received it. Let them know you'd like to be a part of the show in the future, or are available for other bookings.

Video of the Week

2010-12-08T09:34:00.000-05:00

Revealing Images: Gigi and Pop

2010-12-07T10:00:00.000-05:00

In Revealing Images, photographer Don Spiro dishes up sweet photographic treats and the stories behind them. Today, Don aims his lens at New York City based band Gigi and Pop
Gigi and Pop are a band based in New York City that is popular in the burlesque scene, it’s individual members have been performing burlesque for years and as a combo have taken home the trophy for the “Best Variety Act” category at the 2009 Burlesque Hall of Fame pageant. Taro, Anita Cookie and Ken Ball truly define variety, they can perform in any scene in any category.

When they asked me to do a photo shoot with them I knew it would be just as varied. Dark and moody or light and comic? Straightforward representation or fantastic and whimsical? The answer to everything is yes.

Taking a cue from album cover art, several possible looks were discussed. The idea was to shoot plates for compositing into different images. Taro and crew had definite ideas as to the style of the final design of each image, but each would be unique and portray the group in different fashions. Shooting plates is fairly easy, I do it all the time, but usually with a specific final composition pre-visualized and all I would need to do would be to match something already designed. This would be a different challenge, mainly for Taro, who would have to combine the elements into a new whole.

The first set up was to shoot them naked with their instruments and the trophy against a pure white background. Their own trophy was being engraved so they borrowed Julie Atlas Muz’s from 2006. I positioned the lights they way I do for pin up or for shooting Lucha Va Voom, very flattering and good for group shots with little shading and plenty of fill. I shot one test shot to check the exposure. After adjusting my lens I took the first shot and that shot was the lucky one, it ended up the one being used. A simple set up, Taro only had to digitally remove a piece of tape that was holding up the seamless backdrop and change the date on the trophy.

~Don Spiro

All the News that's Fit to Strip

2010-12-06T12:03:00.004-05:00

Dita Von Teese would rather be a "racy" burlesque dancer than star in her own sex tape.

She said: "When they go to the movies, people want to see a little nudity. With burlesque, I show what I want to show. It's not related to my real sex life at all. It's like make-up, body make-up, spotlights, rhinestones, feathers. It's sensual, but nothing close to the real sex. And meanwhile, I'm considered racy. But I'm in control as a woman. Is it when you're out of control, and your sex tape comes out, and you're like 'Whoa, whoa, I didn't mean it, I'm apologising' [that you're accepted]? I think maybe because I am giving it to people in a way, and I'm not apologising, there's this whole thing."

In other news ...

According to the L.A. Times Stanley Tucci is the best part of Burlesque.

Photographer uses a touch of burlesque in her portraits.

Pee-O-Rama returns to New York City. Kind of.

Video of the Week

2010-12-01T09:27:00.000-05:00

All the News that's Fit to Strip

2010-11-29T10:00:00.000-05:00

Just because the movie Burlesque is now on the big screen, doesn't mean the art of striptease will make a comeback. In fact, burlesque has been growing in popularity for a long time. "The movie has sparked mainstream interest," says Cleveland burlesque performer Danielle Squeal. "But burlesque has been an underground phenomenon on the East and West coasts for years -- and it's starting to catch on here."

Tempest Storm, Lili St. Cyr, and now Dita Von Tease have all helped the popularity of burlesque rise in the United States. Take a look at the Striptease Timeline.

In other news ...

The Bada Bing Babes bring burlesque back to Jacksonville, Florida.

Didn't like Burlesque? BlogHer offers six alternatives for your Cher, Christina, musical theater fix.

The L.A. Times looks at the opening weekend box office figures for Burlesque and says it's "not an unmitigated disaster, but hardly a blockbuster success either."

Video of the Week

2010-11-24T09:30:00.000-05:00

Video of the Week

2010-11-17T09:29:00.000-05:00

All the News that's Fit to Strip

2010-11-15T19:54:00.004-05:00

It wasn't easy to get Burlesque on the big screen. This $55-million movie is a big risk for its production studio, Screen Gems.

In other Burlesque news, the film's star Christina Aguilera planted her hands in the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Then later kicked off the LA premiere last night.

In other news...

Tempest Storm is still dancing.

Dita Von Teese doesn't mind being called a stripper.

Wonderwall counts down famous striptease moments.

Video of the Week

2010-11-10T09:28:00.000-05:00

All the News that's Fit to Strip

2010-11-09T09:24:00.000-05:00

Katy Perry is a tease. In an article from People.com, she admits that she is a "burlesque girl" at heart and would prefer to tease, than to go completely bare.

In other news...

Burlesque isn't the only striptease movie coming to theaters.

A brief history of burlesque.

Rachel Zoe shows you how to get the Burlesque look.

Video of the Week

2010-11-03T09:11:00.000-04:00

All the News That's Fit to Strip

2010-11-02T10:00:00.000-04:00

The men of Australia are proving that burlesque is not strictly for females. Briefs is a new take on the classic burlesque show.

In other news...

Read about the inspiration behind the costumes of Burlesque and star Christina Aguilera's style evolution.

A documentary featuring Ann Corio, a classic in Striptease, will be featured at the Hartford International Film Festival.

Video of the Week

2010-10-27T09:26:00.000-04:00

All the News that's Fit to Strip

2010-10-25T22:12:00.005-04:00

Listen to a sample of one of Christina Aguilera's songs off of the Burlesque soundtrack. "Beautiful People" will be featured as the lead single from the album.

In other news...

An ex- convent schoolgirl returns to her hometown as a burlesque dancer.

The host of Wicked Women, a comedy and burlesque act, sits down for an interview.

Video of the Week

2010-10-20T09:24:00.000-04:00

All the News that's Fit to Strip

2010-10-19T10:11:00.004-04:00

The Sacramento Press has an interview with Lizzy D. Vine. Not only is she a pin-up model, burlesque performer, and actress, she's an event promoter, photographer, and all around busy girl.

In other news...

Want to look like a burlesque star? Get pointers from Christina and Us Magazine.

Cher admits her age is catching up with her.

Video of the Week

2010-10-13T09:22:00.000-04:00

All the News that's Fit to Strip

2010-10-12T10:00:00.000-04:00

Christinia Aguilera bares some info on Burlesque'ssoundtrack. Aguilera dominates the soundtrack, but her fellow co-stars also make appearances on the album.

In other news...

Demi Moore's role in Striptease won a reader's poll for best guilty pleasure.

This is no average class for attendees in Philly.

Video of the Week

2010-10-06T09:10:00.000-04:00

All the News That's Fit to Strip

2010-10-04T09:05:00.000-04:00

There's still almost two months before Burlesque shimmies into theaters, but the film makers are all about the tease. A second version of the trailer and more stills were just released. And, MTV launched a contest should you want to give burly-q a whirl.

In other news…

Dita Von Teese is set to guest star in an episode of CSI, she will play a Hollywood femme fatale.

This restaurant’s dinners are a little saucier than most.

New pin-up magazines are a throwback to the '60s.

Meet burlesque entrepreneur and actor Josh Lucas.

Video of the Week

2010-09-29T09:08:00.000-04:00

All the News that's Fit to Strip

2010-09-27T11:21:00.001-04:00

Christina Aquilera and Kristen Bell warn that their upcoming movie, Burlesque, will not feature nudity. "There's lot of sexiness and I show a lot of skin but there is no nudity", says Bell.
The movie will be rated PG-13, and will show the more playful teasing side of burlesque.

In other news...

Buddy Collette, who provided music for Lili St. Cyr, passed away at the age of 89.

Baton Rouge, LA needs to change some of their city laws to allow for burlesque shows.

Scarlett James brings back burlesque to Montreal.

A Chicago theatre celebrates the 30th year anniversary of Super Mario Brothers with a burlesque version of the game.

Seattle hosts burlesque show, House of The UnHoly, an all-star line up of dancers, singers, and musicians.

Group gives new meaning to dinner and a show.

Video of the Week

2010-09-22T09:07:00.000-04:00

All the News that's Fit to Strip

2010-09-20T09:05:00.000-04:00

The Second Annual New Orleans Burlesque Festival took place this weekend. Events included the Queen of Burlesque competition and “Ready, Set Strip”, a show featuring comical acts of burlesque.

The festival featured past and present stars of burlesque including Bambi Jones, pictured left, Wild Cherry, and Georgette Dante.

In other news ...

Dita Von Teese, who is busy promoting her show, Be Cointreauversial, talks about her personal life -- being tied up in bondage is nothing new for this girl.

New book, Banned in Boston, looks at the city's efforts to boot burlesque, books and more.

Video of the Week

2010-08-25T09:48:00.000-04:00

All The News That's Fit Strip

2010-08-24T09:03:00.000-04:00

Christina Aguilera covers the Etta James song Something's Gotta Hold of Me in Burlesque and the HitFix has the video.

Burlesque is busting out on Main Street.

Las Cruces troupe shows "real women who are being sexy and confident."

Runaround Sue believes, "This is the age of burlesque ... I think 20 or 30 years from now, people are going to look back and say, 'That was the golden era for neo-burlesque.'"

Video of the Week

2010-08-18T09:47:00.000-04:00

Video of the Week

2010-08-11T09:45:00.000-04:00

All The News That's Fit Strip

2010-08-09T10:03:00.000-04:00

The Burlesque trailer hits the web. And it's garnering some ouch-able feedback.

"It's sexy, it's sensual," Aguilera said of the film last month. "The whole idea of burlesque has always intrigued me. The art of the tease, the dance, beautiful women — need I say more?"

In other news ...

Neo-burlesque revivals thrive in Vegas.

Video of the Week

2010-08-04T09:34:00.000-04:00

Video of the Week

2010-07-28T09:45:00.000-04:00

Video of the Week

2010-07-21T09:44:00.000-04:00

Video of the Week

2010-07-14T09:40:00.000-04:00

All The News That's Fit Strip

2010-07-13T09:00:00.000-04:00

SheKnows.com dishes up some still from Burlesque. And USA Today talks to director Steven Antin, who said:

"People think burlesque shows are rooted in some overtly sexual striptease with G-strings and pasties. But originally it was parody entertainment meant for the middle classes that was provocative, funny and always based in comedy. That's not to say the movie isn't really sexy. But it's PG-13 sexy."

In other news

Dita Von Teese struts her stuff for Jean Paul Gaultier and gets wet for Perrier.

Here are ten ways to give burlesque a whirl.

Take a peak backstage at the Colorado Burlesque Festival.

Video of the Week

2010-07-07T09:37:00.000-04:00

Video of the Week

2010-06-30T09:32:00.000-04:00

All the News That's Fit to Strip

2010-06-28T12:30:00.000-04:00

Inspired by Jo Weldon's new book The Burlesque Handbook Frisky readers share ideas on how to entice their partner.

The annual calvacade of flesh and fantasy, Burlesque-A-Pades kicks off its summer tour July 16.

The stars of Burlesque throw a party.

The Candy Pitch now has a video channel on YouTube where you can share videos with us and see our favorites.

Revealing Images: The Poubelle Twins

2010-06-24T09:40:00.000-04:00

In Revealing Images, photographer Don Spiro dishes up sweet photographic treats and the stories behind them. Today, Don aims his lens at The Poubelle Twins.

This shot is a little bit of history. I’m proud to say that I was the first person to do a studio shoot with Bibi and Fifi, the Poubelle Twins. At the time, they were French maids in the Velvet Hammer burlesque troupe, the first troupe to continue the form and promote traditional American burlesque as a folk art. The Poubelles interacted with the audience and emcee, policed the stage after each act, and mutely served as aloof eye candy to draw in the fans. Before they came on the scene the performers, stage manager or the emcee were usually the ones to gather performers costumes from the stage. Not anymore!

This was my first shoot for the Velvet Hammer, at their rehearsal space on Sunset Boulevard, the Studio With No Name, which would eventually become my photo studio. The twins are actually the Duffy sisters, identical twin sisters who are well known in the Los Angeles animation industry. Their inspiration for the Velvet Hammer was the drawings of John Willie, a mid century writer and illustrator famed for “Bizarre” and “Diary of a French Maid,” who has probably influences late twentieth century fashion more than most haute couture design houses.

We shot with black and white film, 400ASA, using my Nikon camera. I like 400 speed film, I always over expose it by about a third of a stop to keep grain at a minimum, aiming to get detail in the shadows on the negative and then printing for the highlights, controlling how rich I want the blacks. We shot in Freon of a grey seamless backdrop, shooting full body shots, medium shots and close-ups. I used four open faced lights, two 1000 watt DP lights and two 650 watt Omni lights with white diffusion, from 216 full white down to light opal, repositioning them depending on the pose and composition.

This close up is one of my favorites. The twins’ faces were almost touching, Bibi on the left and Fifi on the right, leaving a small gap between them of grey background, lit by ambient light. I placed one DP light behind the seamless, shooting over the top of it on a boom arm as a backlight, putting a glow on their white lace. A second DP light was covered with 250 half white diffusion and placed high to camera left, lighting Fifi’s face and eyes and casting her nose shadow down to the right. I placed a flag to the left of the light to keep it off of Bibi on the left of frame. I then took an Omni light to the right hand side and covered it with 216 full diffusion to create a bit of fill, aiming it at both twins. It softly lit Bibi’s face, keeping her eyes dark in relation to Fifi’s, and creating softer shadows. It also filled in the shadow areas of Fifi’s face. I bounced the other Omni light into a white card on the floor for even more ambient fill, barely noticeable but still there.

This and one full body photo of the Poubelles from this shoot were used to promote upcoming Velvet Hammer shows that year. At the time I had no idea how involved I would get in the burlesque community, or that there even would be a community as strong as it is now.

It’s been almost eight years since I shot this photo. It was my first burlesque studio shoot and the Poubelle twins first studio portrait session. It seems like a lifetime ago but when I look at this picture I can remember that day like it just happened.

~Don Spiro

Video of the Week

2010-06-23T09:30:00.000-04:00

Ghostbusters burly revival.

All the News That's Fit to Strip

2010-06-22T09:22:00.000-04:00

Dita Von Teese helps Richard Branson fly the friendly skies. The burlesque beauty is now emblazoned on the side of his 747. Something to celebrate, but not with Bombay Saphire.

In other news:

Get a glimpse inside a burlesque queen's closet.

Festival director wants a statue of Lili St. Cyr to grace Montreal streets.

Ghostbusters gets a burly makeover.

Video of the Week

2010-06-16T09:20:00.000-04:00

All the News That's Fit to Strip

2010-06-07T11:34:00.005-04:00

Holly Madison and Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman opened the official Burlesque Hall of Fame Museum on Fremont Street in downtown during Burlesque Hall of Fame weekend. Associate director of the museum, Laurenn McCubbin said:

"This is where we'd like to start. We've had shows here before, but this is the first time we've had a public space that's so accessible."

In other news...

Canadian Roxi Dlite wins at Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend.

Jo "Boobs" Weldon, one of the premiere names in modern burlesque and founder of the NYC School of Burlesque, offers tips and tricks in her new book, "The Burlesque Handbook."

Burlesque legend, Tempest Storm fell and fractured her hip during her performance Friday night at the Burlesque Hall of Fame in Las Vegas. She is on the mend and starting physical therapy this week.

All the News That's Fit to Strip

2010-05-24T10:32:00.008-04:00

It is not uncommon for celebrities to start other businesses such as clothing lines, fragrances and restaurants. The latest celebrity to diversify maybe Rhianna. Sources indicate that together, with Jay Z, the young singer maybe the face of a new chain of burlesque clubs:

"Jay thinks she has the perfect image to get into the club scene. All the top bods reckon she’s smoking hot. They’re desperate to make her the face and body of a new burlesque chain. Jay sees it as a great business opportunity."

In other news...

French Actor Mathieu Amalric's new film Tournee tells the tale of a business man returning to Paris from America with a troupe of burlesque dancers from New York City. Featuring real burly-queens such as Julie Atlas Muz and Dirty Martini, the film was recently screened at the Cannes Film Festival.

It's the most wonderful time of the year; time for the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend. Announcements revealing the finalists for the Saturday competition were released last week. See if your favorites made the cut.

Lesley Zemekis' Behind the Burly Q explores the history of burlesque during its golden age. Kevin Thomas for the LA Times reviews it here.

A reporter in Ireland transforms into a burlesque starlet and explores Dublin's growing scene.

Black Box Burlesque in Denver has a brand new show and a brand new moniker: BurlyCute: A Naughty Vaudeville, opens at the Denver Crossroads Theater. Featuring Cora Vette and Vivienne Vavoom, the variety show also includes torch singers and comedy.

"Queen of Fire Tassels," Satan's Angel is still twirling after 40 years. Locals in Hollywood were able to see her fiery act last week at Monday Night Tease.

Video of the Week

2010-05-12T09:48:00.000-04:00

Christina Aguilera's newest burlesque-inspired video.

All the News That's Fit to Strip

2010-05-10T10:00:00.000-04:00

She's written books, created her own line of stockings and so much more, so now is Dita Von Teese thinking of having her own clothing line? There is a possibility, but don't expect the line to duplicates of the clothes already in her closet. She said:

"I might like to, but I would be very careful about how I went about it. Because I feel like I wouldn't want to just go into my closet and knock off my favorite designers. feel like a lot of celebrities do that. They're, like, 'I'm going to have a clothing line, and meanwhile it's, like, 'Oh, you really loved that Dior suit you borrowed! You loved it so much you knocked it off.'"

In other news...

Rumor has it Rihanna might launch a series of burlesque-themed nightclubs.

Christina Aguilera's Not Myself Tonight video inspired by burlesque.

New burlesque movie, Behind the Burly Q explores the art form beyond the stripteasers to include musicians, crew and variety acts. And the reviews keep rolling in.

The Seattle Erotic Arts Festival celebrated its eight year with three days of performances, workshops and parties including performances by Indigo Blue, Waxie Moon, Dirty Martini and others.

All the News that's Fit to Strip

2010-04-26T09:54:00.006-04:00

Former Dancing with the Stars pro, Julianne Hough took time to praise her Burlesque co-stars, Cher and Christina Aguilera.
She said:

"It was phenomenal! Cher is unbelievable! It's crazy though cause you get to know people on set and you just kind of forget who they really are. Christina's awesome. She really put herself into it and she did great. She always does everything great. I think she did a really, really great job."

In other news...

The History Theatre in Minneapolis is currently running Queens of Burlesque. The show centers around a group of dancers and bar manager as they anticipate the arrival of the legendary Lili St. Cyr.

"This is a movie about nudity and sex. I can’t imagine why I was asked to host this screening!" So said Sharon Stone at the premiere of Behind the Burly Q Leslie Zemeckis's documentary about the gaudy old days of burlesque. The film, keeps racking up the gossip hits and accolades.

Is burlesque more empowering than stripping?

Vanessa Williams takes a stripteasing whirl.

Video of the Week

2010-04-21T11:00:00.000-04:00

All the News that's Fit to Strip

2010-04-20T16:54:00.003-04:00

There's lots of buzz around Leslie Zemeckis and her new documentary Behind the Burly Q, which looks at early 20th century burlesque. Sharon Stone, Alan Alda and Regis Philbin were all on hand for the New York screening. And, Zemeckis and Stone chatted with Fox about the premiere.

In other news ...

Time Out Chicago offers a sultry view on the Windy City Burlesque Festival.

The Londonist previews the city's burlesque festival.

The latest issue of Java's Bachelor Pad is out and features Texas gal, Angela Ryan on the cover. Also included in this issue in this issue is according to Java, a "double-dose of Chicago burlesque," with Michelle L'amour's Naked Girls Reading, and a spread which features Naked Girl, and Chicago Starlet, Mimi First. .

Video of the Week

2010-04-14T10:01:00.000-04:00

Video of the Week

2010-03-17T09:53:00.000-04:00

Burlesque Undressed debuts at the USA Film Festival this weekend. Here's a sneak peek.

Video of the Week

2010-03-10T09:29:00.000-05:00

All the News that's Fit to Strip

2010-03-08T12:04:00.006-05:00

Kristin Bell ditched her blonde hair to go darker for her upcoming role in the movie Burlesque. Bell's character plays the rival to Christina Aguilera's character in the film. Bell said:

"I'm a blonde girl who goes dark to go bad. They felt my character should be brunette and bad. I'm the girl who feels threatened by Christina ... It was make-believe - I just pretended to make Christina's life a misery."

In other news...

A private investigator turns to burlesque to help survive a financial crisis.

Ashville-based troupe, Bootstraps Burlesque present "The Laudanum Express: A Tribute to Silent Film.” The show features live music, popcorn girls, a magician and a juggler.

All the News that's Fit to Strip

2010-03-02T09:00:00.000-05:00

Dita Von Teese dishes on her top 10 movies of all time. Some of them you might expect, while others may surprise you. Her number six film is Raise the Red Lantern. She said:

"I love epic, tragic and breathtakingly beautiful Chinese films. This is one of my favorites, starring Gong Li."

In other news...

Susannah Perlman and friends round out the cast of a hilarious variety show called "Nice Jewish Girls Gone Bad." The show is currently on tour, so check to see if the Jewish Girls are coming to a city near you.

Will burlesque become a part of Dancing With the Stars?

Kelly DiNardo, founder of The Candy Pitch, chats about Gilded Lili.

Video of the Week

2010-02-17T09:49:00.002-05:00

The USA Film Festival will host the U.S. premiere of the film Burlesque Undressed with a live performance by Immodesty Blaize on Saturday, March 20. Whet your appetite with this week's video.

All the News That's Fit to Strip

2010-02-16T09:10:00.000-05:00

Shooting is nearly done for the upcoming movie staring Cher, Christina Aguilera and others. Burlesque centers around a flailing burlesque club and the new, provincial dancer (Aguilera) that begins dancing there.

Veteran actress and Academy Award-winner, Cher is more than impressed with her younger costars, according to a new video interview.

In other news...

The Dallas Burlesque Festival gives a local Dallas High School Senior a new and improved sense of confidence.

Lucha VaVoom entertained L.A. crowds for the seventh time at the Mayan Theatre. Lucha Libre-style wrestling, comedy and burlesque? What's not to love?

Burlates may be the next exercise craze to hit gyms.

Va-Va-Voom Valentine

2010-02-11T09:14:00.000-05:00

Montreal's burlesque scene would make Lili St. Cyr proud. And Valentine's Day really brings out the peelers. What other Valentine's Day burly shows are happening out there?

Video of the Week

2010-02-10T09:12:00.002-05:00

With a nod to the blizzard that's covering the northeast, here's the video of the week.

All the News That's Fit to Strip

2010-02-08T11:12:00.000-05:00

Actor and star of the forthcoming movie, Burlesque, Alan Cumming, began shooting for the film last week. He said:

"I go to LA this week to start shooting my role.I have already recorded one of the songs. I play Alexis,the door man of the burlesque club run by Cher, and where Christina Aguilera becomes the star."

Check out this sneak peek.

In other news...

Burlesque babe Go Go Amy and her Peep Show Burlesque bring burlesque to the most unlikely places, and the crowd loves it.

The Pasadena Playhouse closes.

What a burly dancer ponders while performing.

Lovely Lili

2010-01-29T12:17:00.004-05:00

We're taking a small hiatus from our weekly Candy Gram for a Lili moment. Today is the eleven-year anniversary of Lili St. Cyr's death.

The Independent and The New York Times did good obituaries.

And here's a great video of her:

All the News that's Fit To Strip

2010-01-25T10:19:00.002-05:00

A little sample of pop star Christina Aguilera's latest recording for her forthcoming movie, Burlesque hits the Internet.

In other news...

Jersey City Deputy Mayor and former exotic, Leona Beldini takes the stand this week in a corruption trial that involves over 40 other people. In the 50s and 60s, Leona danced under the name Hope Diamond and performed throughout the country.

The Berlin cabaret culture is alive and well, thanks in part to nightclub owner, Sylvia Schmid. Her venue, Kleine Nachtrevue features, dancers, actors, comedians and singers.

Candy Gram: Kalani Kokonuts

2010-01-15T11:54:00.000-05:00

In our ongoing Q&A series --"The Candy Gram"-- we ask the same quirky questions of burlesque's various performers. If you want to be added to the mix, drop Tanya Cheex a line at t.cheex AT gmail DOT com. Today, say hello the reigning Queen of The Burlesque Hall of Fame 2009, Kalani Kokonuts.

What is your hometown?
Somewhere in the constellation Plieades

How long have you been interested in burlesque/performing?
Since about 2003

How many pairs of pasties do you own?
I have no idea, not that many..

What are your three favorite songs to perform to?
Feeling good by Michael Buble
Bob's yer uncle by The Happy Mondays
Rev 22:20 (dry martini mix) by Puscifer

What three items could you not live without as a performer?
My shoes, the music and some weed.

Who had the biggest influence on your career?
Burning man

Who is your favorite burly queen?
Immodesty Blaize

What is your favorite item of clothing?
Apparently it's toothpaste. I rock toothpaste on my shirt almost everyday. If you don't see toothpaste on me, I haven't brushed yet.

What’s the last movie you saw?
Let The Right One In. It's a subtitled vampire movie made in the Netherlands I think.

What’s on your must-see-TV list?
Toddlers and Tiaras. Seriously? I just can't relate.

What book is on your nightstand?
A bunch of High Times magazines and a Thierry Mugler design book.

If you could go anywhere for vacation, where would you go?
Burning Man

If you could have any superpower, which one would you want? Why?
Wow, I get to choose any power? My power would be the ability to instantaneously create highly contagious viruses with permanent symptoms.

The reasoning behind this idea would be that I could manifest viruses that can make any human happier, less stressed and kinder and more compassionate to there fellow earthlings. I guess I would be the change that I wanted to see.

Satisfy your appetite for more Candy Grams: Maria May I, La Cholita, Gentry de Paris, Jade Pearl, Kitten DeVille, Miss C, Immodesty Blaize, Nasty Canasta, Vivienne Vermuth, Scarlett James, Tura Santana, Tatah DuJour, Susie Caboose, Gigi La Femme, Kitten on the Keys, Virginia D'Vine, Tamara the Trapeze Lady, Champagne Sparkles, Selia Carmichael, Pyra Sutra, Roxi Dlite, Scarlet O'Gasm, Bombshell Betty, Foxy Moxy, Bambi Galore, Mis Rosie Bitts, Sahara Dunes, Mimi Rockafellar, Baby Le Strange, Rose Darling, Satan's Angel, Ophelia Flame, Panache La Plume, Ginger Valentine, Madame Rosebud, Little Brooklyn, Victoria Veneance, Sauci Calla Horra, Penny Starr Jr., Gemma Parker, Darla DeVine, Sparkly Devil, Vivienne VaVoom, Lux LaCroix, Charlotte La Belle Araignee, Bunny Love, Amber Topaz, Amelie Soleil, Red Hot Annie, HoneyLu, Kimberlee Rose, Vicky Butterfly, Dominique Immora, Yasmine Vine, Cherry Bomb, Millie Dollar, Joanie Gyoza, Bonbon Vivant, Lola Martinet, Frankie Boudoir, Vixen Violette, Ravenna Black, Veronica Lashe, Amber Ray, Beatrix von Bourbon, Angie Pontani, Tanya Cheex, Bloody Belle, Clams Casino, Trixie Little, Michelle L'Amour, Margaret Cho, Miss Dirty Martini, Princess Farhana, Miss Delirium Tremens, Paris Green, Jo Boobs, Jack Midnight, Heidi Von Haught, Diamond Minx, The Titillation Twins, Scratch, Creamy Stevens and Gina Louise.

Video of the Week

2010-01-13T10:20:00.001-05:00

All The News That's Fit To Strip

2010-01-11T10:27:00.003-05:00

Kristin Bell wants you to be prepared for her new, sexed up role in the forthcoming movie, Burlesque. But if you think you might see a whole lot of Miss Bell, think again. She said:

"I’m a burlesque dancer who’s an alcoholic, so I’m playing sexier than I’ve ever done before. You won’t see me naked, wearing pasties and a G-string or anything. But you definitely won’t think of me as the girl next door either."

In other news...

Former exotic dancer, Chesty Morgan may not have had an easy life, but that's not going to stop her from living.

"Remember you must die." Perhaps this phrase doesn't make you think burlesque, but that's not really the point. Sweet and Nasty Burlesque presents Momento Mori at the Public Assembly in Brooklyn.

Candy Gram: Maria May I

2010-01-08T09:32:00.000-05:00

In our ongoing Q&A series --"The Candy Gram"-- we ask the same quirky questions of burlesque's various performers. If you want to be added to the mix, drop Tanya Cheex a line at t.cheex AT gmail DOT com. Today, say hello Maria May I.

What is your hometown?
I have never lived in one state longer than 5 years, so my hometown is hard to determine. I guess I will say Wisconsin, because that is where most of my family is.

How long have you been interested in burlesque/performing?
I am actually very new to burlesque. I started becoming interested in Jan. 2009 and did my first performance the last week of Feb. 2009.

How many pairs of pasties do you own?
Well over 30 pairs

What are your three favorite songs to perform to?
Car Wash, Got My Mojo Workin', and Boogie Shoes.

What are three items could you not live without as a performer?
Pastie Tape, Hairspray, and Shiny stuff.

Who had the biggest influence on your career?
Red Hot Annie. She is such an amazing enterpenuer, so sucessful, and yet humble at the same time.

Who is your favorite burly queen?
I have really taken a liking to Ivy Paige. She's quriky, and funny, entertaining to watch.

What is your favorite item of clothing?
Can I say Hat? I love hats, I would walk around in my birthday suit, and just be comfortable wearing a hat.

What’s the last movie you saw?
I'm addicted to horror movies, one of my favs is The Shining so I just had a fix of it last night.

What’s on your must-see-TV list?
Re-runs of The Wonder Years and That '70s Show. I also like to watch House, Law & Order or anything on Nick at Nite.

What book is on your nightstand?
I hate to admit, I don't read books nearly as much as I should. I have a stack of fashion magazines as high as my ceiling. I am a freelance fashion designer, so I have to be on the up andup.

If you could go anywhere for vacation, where would you go?
I know it is lame but I would go to Wisconsin. I have a huge family and we are all really close, I don't get to spend nearly enough time with them.

If you could have any superpower, which one would you want?
Why? Hmmm.... flying! I flippin hate driving, and the CTA, so if I could fly, that would be fantastic!

Satisfy your appetite for more Candy Grams: La Cholita, Gentry de Paris, Jade Pearl, Kitten DeVille, Miss C, Immodesty Blaize, Nasty Canasta, Vivienne Vermuth, Scarlett James, Tura Santana, Tatah DuJour, Susie Caboose, Gigi La Femme, Kitten on the Keys, Virginia D'Vine, Tamara the Trapeze Lady, Champagne Sparkles, Selia Carmichael, Pyra Sutra, Roxi Dlite, Scarlet O'Gasm, Bombshell Betty, Foxy Moxy, Bambi Galore, Mis Rosie Bitts, Sahara Dunes, Mimi Rockafellar, Baby Le Strange, Rose Darling, Satan's Angel, Ophelia Flame, Panache La Plume, Ginger Valentine, Madame Rosebud, Little Brooklyn, Victoria Veneance, Sauci Calla Horra, Penny Starr Jr., Gemma Parker, Darla DeVine, Sparkly Devil, Vivienne VaVoom, Lux LaCroix, Charlotte La Belle Araignee, Bunny Love, Amber Topaz, Amelie Soleil, Red Hot Annie, HoneyLu, Kimberlee Rose, Vicky Butterfly, Dominique Immora, Yasmine Vine, Cherry Bomb, Millie Dollar, Joanie Gyoza, Bonbon Vivant, Lola Martinet, Frankie Boudoir, Vixen Violette, Ravenna Black, Veronica Lashe, Amber Ray, Beatrix von Bourbon, Angie Pontani, Tanya Cheex, Bloody Belle, Clams Casino, Trixie Little, Michelle L'Amour, Margaret Cho, Miss Dirty Martini, Princess Farhana, Miss Delirium Tremens, Paris Green, Jo Boobs, Jack Midnight, Heidi Von Haught, Diamond Minx, The Titillation Twins, Scratch, Creamy Stevens and Gina Louise.

Video of the Week

2010-01-06T15:23:00.001-05:00

All The News That's Fit To Strip

2010-01-04T10:32:00.003-05:00

International superstar Dita Von Teese claims that many of her biggest fans are women. She said:

"When I first started doing what I do, a lot of my fans were men. It is interesting the way it has shifted and the majority of my fans are women now, probably 80 per cent. I started thinking about that more over past several years, why that is. I think a lot of women like to see another kind of sex symbol that doesn’t fit into the blond, tanned, California beach babe beauty."

Dita is currently on tour to promote her latest book, Striptease.

In other news...

Minneapolis-based burlesque troupe, Lili's Burlesque rang in the new year with their successful Underpants Show at The Bryant Lake Bowl in Minneapolis, Minn. Staring dancers such as Ophelia Flame and Tomahawk Tassels, The Underpants Show rang in the new year with jazz and striptease.

New York dancer and instructor Jo "Boobs" Weldon pauses from her busy schedule to talk about her burlesque school, inspirations and how she got into burlesque.

All The News That's Fit To Strip

2009-12-15T09:00:00.000-05:00

The 2010 movie Burlesque will be singer Christina Aguilera's film debut. The film is currently in production and the pop star is getting good reviews from the cast and director. Co-star Stanley Tucci said:

"I hear she’s wonderful...I’ve been talking to some of the people at the studio, and everyone is thrilled with her.”

Burlesque also stars Eric Dane, Twilight actor Cam Gigandet, Kristin Bell, Alan Cumming and Dancing With the Stars pro, Julianne Hough.

In other news...

Seattle's Lily Verlain and Jasper McCann present A Land of Sweets, their take on the Christmas classic The Nutcracker.. The cast includes Seattle performers such as Indigo Blue, Waxie Moon, Inga Ingenue, Kitten La Rue and many more.

Australian burlesque dancer Gypsy Wood's spoof of former Australian Prime Minister John Howard was a hit at former Prime Minister Bob Hawke's 80th birthday bash.

Lady Gaga and Cyndi Lauper pose together for a burlesque-inspired ad campaign.

Kelly DiNardo will be signing copies of Gilded Lili at the Dutch Oven Burlesque show at the Palace of Wonders in DC Saturday, December 19.

Video of the Week

2009-12-09T09:37:00.001-05:00

'Tis the season for Yule A Go-Go.

All The News That's Fit To Strip

2009-12-07T13:03:00.005-05:00

Chicago-based photographer Heather Stumpf turns everyday women into Varga-style pin up girls. With her partner, Chris Popio she runs her studio, Vavoom Pinups with a mission to turn all kinds of women into poster girls. She said:

"We’re trying to even out the playing field with things we’re bombarded by on a daily basis,” Stumpf said before a shoot. “How women should look in advertising, magazines, billboards. From a very young age we think, ‘I can never be like this’ or ‘How can I be like this?’ We say with the right care, makeup, photography and pose coaching, you can attain what you want."

In other news...

The Windy City Burlesque Festival (Chicago) is now accepting applications for performers and troupes. Applications are due by Feb. 1.

Dutch Oven Burlesque out of Washington DC will hold a canned food drive on Saturday, Dec. 19 at the Palace of Wonders. The food drive will benefit local residents in need.

photo credit: suntimes.com

All The News That's Fit To Strip

2009-11-30T09:47:00.005-05:00

It appears that Holly Madison is filming a reality show about her life and her experiences as a burlesque showgirl. Madison, currently dances in Peepshow, at the Planet Hollywood hotel and resort in Vegas. Despite her experience as a Playmate, she still is picky about how and when she goes topless. She said:

"The ‘toplessness’ is worked into the show very tastefully and I was very controlling about when and how long I would be topless. Not because I am shy about nudity at all, but because I feel there is an effective way to do a burlesque show and then there is a sloppy way. I'm very inspired by Dita Von Teese and people who do it really well. Hef really liked the show, but I knew he would. He loves burlesque and the girls in the show are really beautiful. There are contemporary pop songs in the show, but a lot of old school style, too. The Red Riding Hood number reminds me so much of the sexy Red Riding hood Tex Avery cartoons from the 40's that Hef loves."

In other news...

New York City's Pinchbottom Burlesque hosted Lurid Pulp, an event promoting the new pulp novel, The Corpse Worse Pasties written by Jonathan Van Gieson, aka, Johnny Porkpie.

The Dallas Burlesque Festival announced that applications are now being accepted for the second annual festival, held the first weekend in February at the historic Texas Theater in Oak Cliff.

Video of the Week

2009-11-25T09:00:00.001-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving.

All The News That's Fit To Strip

2009-11-23T09:43:00.004-05:00

It seems like more and more stars keep getting added to the cast of Burlesque, the much anticipated musical starring Christina Aguilera and Cher. Fans of Grey's Anatomy will be happy to learn that Eric Dane signed on to play the love interest of Aguilera. Production reportedly begins this month with an expected release during the holidays next year. Dane joins Cher, Aguilera, Cam Gigandet, Kristin Bell, Stanley Tucci and others in this dramatic musical.

In other news...

Paris-based burlesque queen Gentry de Paris produces Gentry de Paris Burlesque Revue, full length burlesque production inspired by the famous cabarets and clubs in Paris. The upcoming show, Cinema Burlesque is Dec. 4, at Scopitone, 5 Avenue de l’Opéra.

And speaking of Paris, international burlesque star, Dita Von Teese is busy practicing verb conjugations and vocabulary words while she studies French in order to speak to her French boyfriend in his first language. She said via Twitter:

"Why oh why didn't I pay more attention in high school French?? Yes, now it really DOES seem like 20 years ago."

Video of the Week

2009-11-18T10:41:00.000-05:00

Given all the news about Burlesque, we'll give you a little Christina Aguilera burly preview.

Burlesque Undressed

2009-11-17T15:08:00.002-05:00

Immodesty Blaize's Burlesque Undressed, in which she mixes live shows and interviews with burlesque stars past and present, hits the big screen in January -- in high definition.

Dita Dishes On Modern Burly

2009-11-12T10:00:00.000-05:00

Dita Von Teese chatted with The Daily Beast about Paris, her new flipbooks and her gripes with modern burlesque. Her main complaint? Neo-burlesque doesn't pay tribute to its predecessors.

“You see a lot of burlesque-themed nightclubs opening, where there are girls dancing with boas, then the curtains close and that’s it. Burlesque was about striptease, and especially in America, a lot of the mainstream burlesque acts are taking all of the important elements about the history of burlesque out,” Von Teese laments. “I’ve made it my personal mission to stay true to what burlesque was in the ’30s and ’40s and keep striptease in. Maybe that makes me a little bit dangerous for American audience but it’s more important to me that I stay true to the big stars of burlesque, like Gypsy Rose Lee, Lili St. Cyr, and Sally Rand, the women who took their clothes off in front of an audience.”

Video of the Week

2009-11-11T09:00:00.000-05:00

All The News That's Fit To Strip

2009-11-09T09:46:00.005-05:00

A new actor has signed on to play in Steve Antin's new movie Burlesque which begins filming today. Alan Cumming, an actor from Scotland, joins Christina Aguilera, Cher, Stanley Tucci, Cam Gigandet, Julianne Hough and Kristin Bell as a new cast member. Cumming will play a gender-bending emcee, not unlike Joel Grey's Oscar-winning role in the 1972 movie, Cabaret.

In other news ...

From photographer, Sheryl Nields, come a new book for Dita Von Teese fans. Dita: Striptease . This book features flip-book captures of some of Dita's most famous acts.

What good is setting alone in your room? Come to the cabaret! That's what legions of fans and dozens of unique cabaret acts did over the weekend in Seattle's Inaugural International Cabaret Festival.

Candy Gram: La Cholita

2009-11-06T09:49:00.000-05:00

In our ongoing Q&A series --"The Candy Gram"-- we ask the same quirky questions of burlesque's various performers. If you want to be added to the mix, drop Tanya Cheex a line at t.cheex AT gmail DOT com. Today, say hello La Cholita

What is your hometown?
Los Angeles land of the fabulous, glamorous and occasional train wreck

How long have you been interested in burlesque/performing?
I was born performing and haven’t stopped since.

How many pairs of pasties do you own?
I have about 5-7 pairs that are in regular rotation but I own an insane amount of them. My best friend just started a pastie company called Chi Chi Couture which has everything from basic to one of a kind over the top pieces. I get to test drive and model all her creations before they go up for sale so they are everywhere in my house. It’s always funny when people come over ,innocently pick one up and go “Wow this is pretty.. what is it?” as they inspect it try to figure it out and then the look on their face when they finally realize and I say ‘Oh that goes on my nipples”

What are your three favorite songs to perform to?
Malaguena by Brian Setzer, It’s the song I performed to when I won Miss Viva Las Vegas 2007 and is definitely one of my signatures, Other than that it varies. I love anything raunchy with big horns and and lots of drums/symbals. My favorite is performing with live music because no matter what song you do it always takes on a life of it’s own. I love the live exchange that happens between musicians and dancers it’s such a thrill.

What three items could you not live without as a performer?
An audience, red lipstick and rhinestones

Who had the biggest influence on your career?
Aside from my mother Mae West was the single most spectacular woman to grace this earth and has been a big inspiration as far as grabbing life by the balls and being fabulous while doing it. Bette Midler is a sensational show woman whom I admire. I also like Astrid Hadad and her creativity as far as costumes and concepts she is brazen and decadent and I love her for it.

Who is your favorite burly queen?
Immodesty Blaize, Lili St Cyr, Satan’s Angel, Tongolele and TIGGER!!

What is your favorite item of clothing?
A divinely outrageous bullet bra gold lame backless mermaid couture gown with Swarovski detailing that was designed just for me by David Contreras who owns and designs Tarantula Clothing. He understands the female form better than any designer I’ve ever met and his creations are all just to die for!

What’s the last movie you saw?
Perfume it was enchanting, intoxicating, disturbing and beautiful.

What’s on your must-see-TV list?
I don’t get to watch it much but I like Chelsea Lately and the last show I saw that I really loved was It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia

What book is on your nightstand?
There’s two, The Alchemist which I’ve read 100 times and “did she or didn’t she” A book of all the most marvelous women stars from the 20’s- now and the scandals that surrounded them.

If you could go anywhere for vacation, where would you go?
I would love to charter a luxury yacht through the Mediterranean for me and 200 of my closest friends.

If you could have any superpower, which one would you want? Why?
I suppose it’s rather predictable but Time Travel. I would kill to have the ability to travel the world throughout different eras on a regular basis. Like “Oh I think I’ll spend this summer in Paris circa 1940” There are so many moments in history that would be amazing to experience first hand, shows I’d love to see, people I’d want to meet.

Satisfy your appetite for more Candy Grams: Gentry de Paris, Jade Pearl, Kitten DeVille, Miss C, Immodesty Blaize, Nasty Canasta, Vivienne Vermuth, Scarlett James, Tura Santana, Tatah DuJour, Susie Caboose, Gigi La Femme, Kitten on the Keys, Virginia D'Vine, Tamara the Trapeze Lady, Champagne Sparkles, Selia Carmichael, Pyra Sutra, Roxi Dlite, Scarlet O'Gasm, Bombshell Betty, Foxy Moxy, Bambi Galore, Mis Rosie Bitts, Sahara Dunes, Mimi Rockafellar, Baby Le Strange, Rose Darling, Satan's Angel, Ophelia Flame, Panache La Plume, Ginger Valentine, Madame Rosebud, Little Brooklyn, Victoria Veneance, Sauci Calla Horra, Penny Starr Jr., Gemma Parker, Darla DeVine, Sparkly Devil, Vivienne VaVoom, Lux LaCroix, Charlotte La Belle Araignee, Bunny Love, Amber Topaz, Amelie Soleil, Red Hot Annie, HoneyLu, Kimberlee Rose, Vicky Butterfly, Dominique Immora, Yasmine Vine, Cherry Bomb, Millie Dollar, Joanie Gyoza, Bonbon Vivant, Lola Martinet, Frankie Boudoir, Vixen Violette, Ravenna Black, Veronica Lashe, Amber Ray, Beatrix von Bourbon, Angie Pontani, Tanya Cheex, Bloody Belle, Clams Casino, Trixie Little, Michelle L'Amour, Margaret Cho, Miss Dirty Martini, Princess Farhana, Miss Delirium Tremens, Paris Green, Jo Boobs, Jack Midnight, Heidi Von Haught, Diamond Minx, The Titillation Twins, Scratch, Creamy Stevens and Gina Louise.

Video of the Week

2009-11-04T09:00:00.001-05:00

All The News That's Fit To Strip

2009-11-02T10:11:00.011-05:00

While lots of buzz is circulating around the forthcoming movie Burlesque, staring Christina Aguilera and Cher, burlesque fans can see a striptease by another famous actor in the upcoming musical, Nine. Penelope Cruz plays a burlesque dancer and mistress of well-known film director Guido Contini, played by Daniel Day Lewis. In the movie, out on December 25, Cruz's character performs a sultry striptease in a corset and stockings.

In other news...

Striptease in Canada? While burlesque may be known as an American art, our friends to the north have their own history as well. Becki Ross' new book, Burlesque West: Showgirls, Sex and Sin in Postwar Vancouver reveals the unique burlesque scene in Vancouver from 1945-1980. Ross' book is the product of 11 years of research and interviews with more than 50 people from dancers to workers and club owners in the burlesque theaters and clubs.

The Crazy Horse Saloon is unveiling a brand new show, bringing to life the artistic vision of choreographer Philippe Decouflé.

All The News That's Fit To Strip

2009-10-26T10:09:00.004-04:00

Veronica Mars star, Kristin Bell is the latest to join the cast of the upcoming movie Burlesque. The long hours of dance rehearsal are beginning to take its toll. She said:

"I've started dance rehearsals and my neck is sore and my inner thighs are so sore."

She also discusses her role in the movie-musical. She will play opposite Christina Aguliera , competing with her for the spotlight. She adds:

"There's a competition between the two of us. I really want to sing and she's allowed to sing at the club so we fight... In the end when all is well, they may sing together. I almost wish they wouldn't, because I would rather just listen to Christina."

In other news...

For a group of mothers from Tennessee, it's bottles and diapers during the week and rhinestones and feathers on the weekends.

There's more to do in Cambridge, Mass. than study. Try burlesque. Axe to Ice Productions presents Boiling Point Burlesque, a revue of striptease and drag performances this Sunday at the Oberon Theater.

All The News That's Fit To Strip

2009-10-19T10:20:00.001-04:00

Christina Aguilera is reportedly turning to Dita Von Teese for some tips and advice on burlesque moves.

"Christina is meticulous in her preparation for anything she does,” explains a source close to the star. "She is already training hard to be ready for this role and has asked Dita for some coaching on the more technical aspects of burlesque dancing. She doesn’t want to have to use a double for anything if she can help it."

Yet another source says:

"It is not about g-strings and pasties. It's about female empowerment. No one is ever in lingerie. The film is sexy, but there's no stripping."

Burlesque begins filming next month and is slated to release Thanksgiving 2010.

In other news...

Michelle L'amour's Naked Girls Reading rapidly expands to cities throughout the United States and catches the attention of Carson Daly.

Becki Ross, a sociologist from the University of BC has penned a new book, Burlesque West: Showgirls, Sex and Sin in Postwar Vancouver. Her new work explores the West Coast strip scene through first person accounts and interviews.

Revealing Images: Erochica Bamboo

2009-10-06T09:00:00.000-04:00

In Revealing Images, photographer Don Spiro dishes up sweet photographic treats and the stories behind them. Today, Don aims his lens at 2008's Miss Exotic World Erochica Bamboo.

This is one of my favorite portraits, of Miss Exotic World 2003, Erochica Bamboo. The simple costume of feathers, pearls and black velvet gloves accented by giant false eyelashes and stylized makeup conveys a sense of timeless beauty that I associate with Miss Bamboo in real life.

We had spent a whole evening doing various costume and makeup changes, varying the backgrounds, poses and lightings for each image. For this one I chose to shoot her from the waist up with glamour lighting like an old Hollywood publicity still. I wanted to accentuate not just her face, but the pasties, pearl necklace and matching earrings that all added to the allure and elegance of Miss Bamboo.

My key light was to the left of the camera and a bit high, I asked her to turn her face right into it, keeping the front of her face free of shadow except for her cheeks, while allowing light to hit her earring. She curved her shoulders and the light raked across her body, streaking across her arms and cleavage and allowing her necklace to shine. I placed a second, softer light behind her to light the top of her camera-right shoulder. Bouncing off the floor it provided a soft glow on the shadowed side of her breasts, neck and chin.

I was very happy with the result, a kind of film-noir image that was moody with a lot of contrast, but I didn’t want hair to disappear into the darkness behind her. Rather than light her hair with a strong backlight, which is one way to get good separation of the subject from the background, I chose instead to light the backdrop itself. The backdrop was dark grey, and I spotted a light very tight into it in the space above her shoulder.

I shot this image with color film, exposing it so that her face was about two stops over my key, which gave me amazing skin tones on her body and making all the pearls glow. The background ranged from near white wear the spot was most intense to dark grey on the edges of frame, with a full range of tones between. She gave a beautiful smile and looked right up into her light, just like many of those old movie star glamour shots. Her charisma in this image and the charm in her face is so overpowering that the fact that she is wearing little more than pasties is almost overlooked.

~Don Spiro

All The News That's Fit To Strip

2009-10-05T01:06:00.000-04:00

Eliza Dushku is another celebrity jumping on the burlesque bandwagon. Inspired by dancers she saw at a wrap party for her science-fiction show, Dollhouse, the actress hopes her character has a chance to try burlesque too. The creator of Dollhouse said:

"We haven't figured out how to put it in an episode yet but we are still trying! We had some burlesque dancers at the wrap party and she was like, 'I want to do that'."

In other news...

See what happens when Orchid Mei, a handful of legends and the New York Times meet up in a hotel room in Wis.

The infamous Slipper Room in New York gets a nod from NPR.

Candy Gram: Gentry de Paris

2009-10-02T13:00:00.000-04:00

In our ongoing Q&A series --"The Candy Gram"-- we ask the same quirky questions of burlesque's various performers. If you want to be added to the mix, drop Tanya Cheex a line at t.cheex AT gmail DOT com. Today, say hello Gentry Lane.

What is your hometown?
Paris (via Hollywood )

How long have you been interested in burlesque/performing?
Since I first saw Gypsy at around age 12. But I didn’t start taking off my clothes until I was 23. (I guess I’m a late bloomer).

How many pairs of pasties do you own?
Not that many. Perhaps a dozen. Do you want me to go count?

What are your three favorite songs to perform to?
Harlem Nocturne (I know, I know! But there’s a reason it’s a classic!)
Too Darn Hot
A French song that I’m going to regret posting called J’Coûte Cher. It’s super vavoom jazzy and has great lyrics. Copy me and I’ll kill you. Actually, I won’t have to. It would be career suicide to use a song that’s already so closely associated with me. So there.

What three items could you not live without as a performer?
Really high heels with quick release ankle straps, Kryolan pancake and good lighting.

Who had the biggest influence on your career?
Dita. She’s generous with her advice, she doesn’t mince words, and now I’m getting pretty good at figuring out when she’s joking. (I’m so gullible, it’s tragic/hysterical). She has set the standard and anyone who doesn’t admit to her level of influence on their own career is a Big Fat Liar.

Who is your favorite burly queen?
Gypsy is my favorite because of her marketing ability, but she doesn’t seem like she was a very nice person. People will hate me for saying this, but I find the real stories behind these women quite sad. I don’t know one who led an admirable life. Except Josephine Baker, but she was never technically a stripper.

What is your favorite item of clothing?
I have 3 François Tamarin corsets that make my waist 18” In a word: Hot.

What’s the last movie you saw?
Good God! I don’t even remember. I’m fighting the inclination to lie and put something intellectual. But it was probably a BBC documentary. I hate going to the movie theater. The seats are filthy.

What’s on your must-see-TV list?
House and Mad Men. I’d do Don Draper in a second.

What book is on your nightstand?
The script for my show in September -- The Gentry de Paris Revue with Dita Von Teese.

If you could go anywhere for vacation, where would you go?
Thailand. I’d like to get a three-hour massage while lying face down in a kiddy pool full of Pad Thai. I hear it’s legal there. And only costs $7.

If you could have any superpower, which one would you want? Why?
Teleportation. Because the Paris metro sucks.

Satisfy your appetite for more Candy Grams: Jade Pearl, Kitten DeVille, Miss C, Immodesty Blaize, Nasty Canasta, Vivienne Vermuth, Scarlett James, Tura Santana, Tatah DuJour, Susie Caboose, Gigi La Femme, Kitten on the Keys, Virginia D'Vine, Tamara the Trapeze Lady, Champagne Sparkles, Selia Carmichael, Pyra Sutra, Roxi Dlite, Scarlet O'Gasm, Bombshell Betty, Foxy Moxy, Bambi Galore, Mis Rosie Bitts, Sahara Dunes, Mimi Rockafellar, Baby Le Strange, Rose Darling, Satan's Angel, Ophelia Flame, Panache La Plume, Ginger Valentine, Madame Rosebud, Little Brooklyn, Victoria Veneance, Sauci Calla Horra, Penny Starr Jr., Gemma Parker, Darla DeVine, Sparkly Devil, Vivienne VaVoom, Lux LaCroix, Charlotte La Belle Araignee, Bunny Love, Amber Topaz, Amelie Soleil, Red Hot Annie, HoneyLu, Kimberlee Rose, Vicky Butterfly, Dominique Immora, Yasmine Vine, Cherry Bomb, Millie Dollar, Joanie Gyoza, Bonbon Vivant, Lola Martinet, Frankie Boudoir, Vixen Violette, Ravenna Black, Veronica Lashe, Amber Ray, Beatrix von Bourbon, Angie Pontani, Tanya Cheex, Bloody Belle, Clams Casino, Trixie Little, Michelle L'Amour, Margaret Cho, Miss Dirty Martini, Princess Farhana, Miss Delirium Tremens, Paris Green, Jo Boobs, Jack Midnight, Heidi Von Haught, Diamond Minx, The Titillation Twins, Scratch, Creamy Stevens and Gina Louise.

Video of the Week

2009-09-30T09:00:00.000-04:00

All The News That's Fit To Strip

2009-09-28T00:58:00.006-04:00

Cam Gigandet of Twilight fame is slated to play the love interest of Christina Aguilera in her first movie, Burlesque. He says:

"It's about a girl from the Midwest who moves out to Los Angeles to pursue her career as a singer. Obviously, it's Christina Aguilera, so she has an amazing voice. She finds a club run by Cher, a burlesque club. And she takes it to a whole new level and, of course, meets me—the love of her life."

In other news...

The New York Burlesque Festival kicks off this week. This festival is celebrating its seventh year with four nights of dazzling burlesque. Golden Pastie awards for categories such as "Hottest Cougar," "Most Classic" and "The Biggest Schlep in Burlesque" will be presented on Sunday, Oct. 4 at the Possion Rouge in NYC.

The latest issue of Bachelor Pad Magazine celebrating "Babes, Booze and Burly-Q," is now available and it features a column from burlesque dancer, Penny Starr Jr. and pin ups of Austin-based performer, Ruby Joule.

Candy Gram: Jade Pearl

2009-09-25T09:42:00.001-04:00

In our ongoing Q&A series --"The Candy Gram"-- we ask the same quirky questions of burlesque's various performers. If you want to be added to the mix, drop Tanya Cheex a line at t.cheex AT gmail DOT com. Today, say hello Jade Pearl.

What is your hometown?
League City. TX but now I'm settled into the Dallas area.

How long have you been interested in burlesque/performing?
I have been interested in performing since I was 3. I eventually received my Bachelors in Dance. As for burlesque, I've been interested in that since I saw Cabaret at the ripe old age of 10. Liza Minelli was too sexy to deny.

How many pairs of pasties do you own?
I have one pair of ruby red show pasties complete with nipple tassels and a bunch that are rejects from when I went on a pastie-making binge. If we count those, then I own “a lot.”

What are your three favorite songs to perform to?
I love to perform to Big Spender, Show Off, and Sing, Sing, Sing!

What three items could you not live without as a performer?
I couldn't live without false eyelashes with corresponding glue, blush, and super waterproof eyeliner.

Who had the biggest influence on your career?
Bob Fosse definitely inspired me to explore the more sensual side of dance. After seeing many of his movies including Cabaret and All That Jazz, I wanted to grow up and be Liza Minelli or Ann Reinking.

Who is your favorite burly queen?
My favorite old school burly queen is definitely Gypsy Rose Lee. I was even in Gypsy, the musical, when I was a kid. I was one of Baby June's newsboys. I guess I got the burly bug at a young age. My favorite neo-burly queen is probably Dita von Teese. You just can't beat her innate charm.

What is your favorite item of clothing?
I love my fishnets, all of them. I don't care if that's cheating. If I had to absolutely pick a pair, I love my tan fishnets because combined with my tan heels, they make my legs look a lot longer than they really are.

What’s the last movie you saw?
Harry Potter Order of the Phoenix. As of right now, I'm preparing for the Half Blood Prince to come out.

What’s on your must-see-TV list?
Well, I don't actually watch TV in real time, but the shows that I am addicted to right now are South Park, True Blood, and The Supersizers, which is a British food history show.

What book is on your nightstand?
Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien. I'm slowly trying to read all the books on the BBC's The Big Read.

If you could go anywhere for vacation, where would you go?
Does everywhere count as an answer? No? Alright. I would probably visit India because I love the food and the culture. Where else can you find a Wonder of the World dedicated to someone's wife? Exactly.

If you could have any superpower, which one would you want? Why?
Teleport. Hands down. Dallas and Houston traffic have destroyed me. All I want to do is get from point A to B. Then I can spend more time having fun instead of always in transit.

Satisfy your appetite for more Candy Grams: Kitten DeVille, Miss C, Immodesty Blaize, Nasty Canasta, Vivienne Vermuth, Scarlett James, Tura Santana, Tatah DuJour, Susie Caboose, Gigi La Femme, Kitten on the Keys, Virginia D'Vine, Tamara the Trapeze Lady, Champagne Sparkles, Selia Carmichael, Pyra Sutra, Roxi Dlite, Scarlet O'Gasm, Bombshell Betty, Foxy Moxy, Bambi Galore, Mis Rosie Bitts, Sahara Dunes, Mimi Rockafellar, Baby Le Strange, Rose Darling, Satan's Angel, Ophelia Flame, Panache La Plume, Ginger Valentine, Madame Rosebud, Little Brooklyn, Victoria Veneance, Sauci Calla Horra, Penny Starr Jr., Gemma Parker, Darla DeVine, Sparkly Devil, Vivienne VaVoom, Lux LaCroix, Charlotte La Belle Araignee, Bunny Love, Amber Topaz, Amelie Soleil, Red Hot Annie, HoneyLu, Kimberlee Rose, Vicky Butterfly, Dominique Immora, Yasmine Vine, Cherry Bomb, Millie Dollar, Joanie Gyoza, Bonbon Vivant, Lola Martinet, Frankie Boudoir, Vixen Violette, Ravenna Black, Veronica Lashe, Amber Ray, Beatrix von Bourbon, Angie Pontani, Tanya Cheex, Bloody Belle, Clams Casino, Trixie Little, Michelle L'Amour, Margaret Cho, Miss Dirty Martini, Princess Farhana, Miss Delirium Tremens, Paris Green, Jo Boobs, Jack Midnight, Heidi Von Haught, Diamond Minx, The Titillation Twins, Scratch, Creamy Stevens and Gina Louise.