A Nearly Naked Nutcracker!

So excited to present this show to you all!

SO... it's been a while!

I'm going to try and be much better about blogging... really! Promise!

I am fortunate to have so many friends in the burlesque industry, it makes it so much easier to deal with the drama that comes with the territory. I have a great friend, Red Snapper, who has discussed with me career goals, and achieving them. I have realized that this is something i need to get on!

My goals for 2011 -

-Dance outside of Texas in at least 5 states. (as of right now, I"ve danced in two!)
-Headline at least three major shows, one being in Dallas! (2nd part is done!)
-Grow my makeup/hair side. (I will be attending IMATS in June.)
-Do all this while keeping some semblance of a personal life. (HA!)

Let's see how the journey goes, eh?

Til next time,

Viv

The Hour Glass

Long time no tease! If you're wondering why it's because the scene has been booming these last few months and Viv and I have been insanely busy making new costumes, routines, hangover cures...you get the idea. Anyway in that time I also managed to start up a solo blog! So if you like what you read here, chances are you'll dig my new blog, The Hour Glass, as well! Here's the link, drop by and start following ;)

http://vinnyvelourshourglass.blogspot.com/

I'll also be posting cross-articles from my blog here from time to time so be sure to check back regularly for show updates and op-eds!

xoxo

Vinny

The Other Side of Sketch[y's]

Most of you out there in internet land are aware that I co-produce the Denton chapter of Dr. Sketchy’s Anti- Art School along with the lovely Ms. Vivienne Vermuth; however I won’t be writing to you as the producer, no, instead yours truly will give you the dish on being a featured model! To give you the full impression of my experience it is important to be aware of the things that my production gig usually entails…

1. Heavy lifting

2. Phone calls; lots and lots of phone calls

3. Information relay between the venue and my fellow producer/crew

4. Running errands; lots and lots of errands

5. Promotion, through rain or sleet or…you get the idea…

So you can imagine when my partner in crime booked one of my best mates (the fabulous hoop dancer Syn Tactic) and me for the February MAD Magazine Spy vs. Spy themed show, that I jumped at the opportunity! While modeling may be a lot of fun and games it actually takes quite a lot of planning, especially if you’re catering to the high standard of the Denton Sketchy’s! Syn and I were determined to make it a huge success.

We worked weeks in advance coordinating our opposing ensembles, creating and crafting our own props, making our own spy themed music mix for the show, and practicing pose after pose to get it just right! When you’re honoring one of the best and most prolific publications of all time, let’s just say there’s no room for error!

The session day finally came, and Syn and I spent most of it doing last minuet preparations and bubbling over with excitement! The line-up for the show was a smash; we had chair routines, hoop routines, duets, a very yummy human sketchpad, and the twisty temptress Scarlet Rose Royale perform some burlesque contortion! The modeling was also a blast (pardon the pun); Syn with her dy-no-mite, me with my bomb…we were totally out for each other on that stage, just as the spies would want! Another element that just made the night was the stellar audience that came out to Banter Café. Loads of photographers, sketchers, water colorists, you name the medium they were there that night.

I have tell you though, the best work out of my life was keeping those 20 minuet poses held, and I’m sure Syn (and every other Sketchy’s model) would agree with me. It’s one thing to do photo shoots where you’re constantly moving and shifting but this modeling took me back to my “glory days” as a live figure art model. All in all it was an incredible session, with lots of outstanding feedback and participation, and I loved every minuet of that small, sketchy stage.

xoxo

Vinny

Broads and panties!

These Broads are at it again - BURLESQUE-A-BILLY! We are taking a turn to the rockabilly side - so slide into some creepers, bust out your best leather jacket and get some Lay-Rite into that 'pomp! Or... just come enjoy some Broads in thier Panties! Burlesque/boylesque, sideshow, singing and more! 15 in advance at treesdallas.com, 20 at the door, but don't wait! our first show sold out day before, so grab tickets early!

We are also hosting a raffle to raise money for the Greenville Avenue Fire and those affected, 102.1 the Edge has graciously donated a TON of items, including a EDGEFEST 19 guiatr, signed by all the bands, and more! Visit jessie at her blog -http://www.kdge.com/pages/diva.html


Featuring
Courtney Crave
Scarlette Switches
Scarlet Rose Royale

Other Players
Vinny Velour
Cora Coquette
Bubbles Von BonBon
Alystre McQueen
Syntactic
Sin O'Rita
Pixie O'Kneel

Fireplay by Zamra

Vocal Stylings by Vic Handsome

Hosted by Dr. Skotch

Our Honored Guest - Zandra Ellis of Bump N Bring

treesdallas.com for ticket info!

The Politics of Posing Nude

Dear Ms. Velour,

I am an aspiring pin-up model from the Houston area, and am struggling with the idea of posing nude for the camera. I have had a few publications, but nothing too notable and am wondering if a nude set would jumpstart my career? Have you posed nude? What would you do in my shoes? Thanks!

Sincerely,

Fully Clothed

Well hello there Ms. Clothed!

You’ve just asked an age-old modeling question my dear, the trouble is only you can be the judge. I will offer my best advice, but it’ll be you in the end who decides if the bra should fall!

First off of course you should be hesitant about disrobing for the camera, after all it’s mighty hard to un-do nude photographs especially if your portfolio is predominantly on-line (as most models are now). Don’t ever let anyone, peer models included, try and tell you it’s not a big deal. It is, it’s your body. Do you have a fall back plan should your modeling career be unfortunately short lived? Does this fall back plan allow for the acceptance of nude (even artistic) shots being taken? If you comfortably believe this won’t affect your livelihood down the road and you are warming up to the idea of being comfortable in your skin, I think you’ll know what’s best for you.

To answer another of your questions, yes, I have posed nude for the camera. Before becoming increasingly active in the burlesque and pin-up scenes I was working at my university as a freelance nude art model. Then I moved progressively into my current realms of performance and modeling which consist of more freelance Artsleaze projects (i.e. Suicide Girls aspirations) and shooting for friends and myself to showcase mine or their fashionable creations (Art With Latex, Dollskin Designs, MUAH portfolios etc). I find myself growing in comfort every day with my body, and have a much deeper appreciation for it. Since I’ve been involved with very progressive and like-minded photographers and designers I find posing nude for a project to be as non-threatening as posing in a full on parka. I count myself very fortunate to be able to work in such safe spaces with such amazing people. Which leads me to my second point…

Know your project leaders (photographers, stylists, lighting techs, muah staff etc)! The more you know about them, the better. Find out their reputation, ask questions, and always ALWAYS get specific agreements in writing! Only sign a model release form if you are completely comfortable with the means and uses those people have for the images you’ve helped create with your body. Also be safe; shoot with a friend or manager/agent. Bring your own contractual documents, be prepared in general, it not only protects you but makes you look professional.

Long story short, don’t be afraid of yourself or your potential, but also don’t throw caution to the wind. That little voice in your pretty head is there for a reason. Listen to it when approaching modeling projects that involve nude work. Your body is an empowering vessel; so treat it with respect and appreciation!

xoxo

Vinny

And... we're BACK!

VIVA LAS VEGAS...

Well, I'm gonna try, anyways. Go big or go home, I say, and that will be my motto for 2010. I have had quite a 2009, and I'm ready for what's in store this year.

I already have so many amazing models for 2010's Dr. Sketchy's Denton - from local newbies like Jade Pearl and Bubbles von BonBon, to dominatrix diva Athena Fatale, fetish lovely Courtney Crave, bellydacner Michelle Manx, and my favorite LA girl, Red Snapper! So so much to come in the next few months... I can hardly stand it!

I wil also be a performer at the 2010 Dallas Burlesque Festival, as well as be featured in the Dallas Burlesque Fest Calendar! This will be my second year performing this festival, and believe me, you won't want to miss it!

I also already have quite a few travelling gigs underway, such as many shows in Austin and talk of shows in New York, Chicago and LA! EXCITING! I will also be debuting a new burlesque collective in DFW in January... stay tuned for that. ;)

So, while you ring in the new year, keep watch on the Viva Las Vegas website, and when jan 1st rolls around, be sure and vote for me to perform at this festival! It would be an honor to attend and perform, so help a lady out!

VIVA LAS VEGAS 2010

Til next time!

Cheers!

Vivienne

Bachelor Pad magazine features US!

I know you lovely readers know all about Bachelor Pad Magazine... what, you don't??? Check out www.javasbachelorpad.com for all the info about this magazine, because our very own Vinny Velour was featured on the inside front cover! I did a lovely photo shoot with her in Dr. Skotch's rad tiki apartment, and these photos caught the eye of our fave bachelor, Java! Get your copy at bachelorpadonline.net!

Cheers!

Vivienne

Some WONDERFUL stuff coming up!

Ladies and gents - we are going to welcome the FABULOUS Scarlette Switches and Garrett Mobley of Mobley Steamline soon in the Interview section, as well as a brand spankin' new piece from famed town drunk Dr. Skotch! IN the meantime, keep an eye out for these FAB shows coming up near you -



Vinny and I will be performing at this show, come say hi!



I will be travelling to OKC for this show!



The next session of Dr. Sketchy's will be CRAZAY!


Talk to you all very soon!

Cheers! Vivienne

Long Time No Tease!

Sorry I've been absent for some while folks, but burly-q has been busting at the seams lately! It seems like every day there's a new costume to make, routine to practice, panties to wrangle etc etc! So here's a small update, and promise of things to come (off)! 

 

As far as shows go, Vivienne and I have two coming up that are sure to delight! The first show, the second annual Texas Equal Access Fund Burlesque Benefit "Under the Bra Top" will be Saturday Nov. 21st (Tomorrow night), burlesque starts late, so get there at 10pm to secure a spot! It's only $5 for great performers, and a worthy cause!

The next show is sure to be a real holiday treat! The Holiday edition of Bewitching Burlesque put on by the fabulous GlamAmour and Pixie O'Kneel has been a long time in the making, and you better get your tickets early because this is a sell-out show if ever I've seen one! Held on Dec. 5th doors at 8pm, at Cafe Excuses in Deep Ellum, "Gifts & Garters"will be an event to remember! I hear tell that there will also be some great vintage shopping opportunities as well as a chance to get Angela Ryan to sign her cover of PinCurl magazine!

 

Pop Those Pasties Dolls!

xoxo

Vinny

w00t! Viv's in the NEWSPAPERS!

The OKC Gazette

The link above speaks about the OKC chapter of Dr. Sketchy's, and the session that will feature me! It is James Bond themed, to reflect my awesome James Bond routine!

Vivienne

Bewitching Burlesque...

Vinny Velour made it! Woo!! Not only will you get to see me dance at Gifts and Garters, you'll get to see her debut! This is AMAZING!! Leave her some love ya'll!

Vivienne

Are ya still with me folks??

Well, good! Because we have a LOT coming your way... I'd hate for you to miss it!

New blogs from Vinny, myself, and a newcomer - Dr. Skotch, the legendary drunk phsyician from Denton, TX! He promised to sober up slightly long enough to write down his thoughts and ideas on classic burlesque and how to choose music - stay tuned for that!

ALSO - my production team would like to FORMALLY ANNOUNCE that we will be bringing boylesque to Dallas! Yes, sir! We've got not one, but TWO tassle twirling Hottie McHotties coming your way... just WAIT 'til you see where they put thier tassles. :) Keep Dec. 13th clear in your books...

Stay Tuned!

Vivienne

Burlesque Joke!

"What do you call merkins in a merkin store?"

"Merkin-dise!!!"


Sent in by: Lauren Hirsch, Studio Art major and Burlesque enthusiast in Denton, TX

It's been too long, hasn't it? Please welcome Lola van Ella!

My lovely readers, you know that back in September I went to the NOLA Burlesque Fest with my friend Cayla of Decadent Dame Designs, and we had a BLAST! We met so many wonderful people, and it gave me determination that I WILL perform there next year! One gal I didn't get to meet, because she was just so darn BUSY! She performed in the Queen of Burlesque competition, as well as the Late Night bash with her new troope, AND the Sunday night BustOut Show!



Lola van Ella is an international burlesque singer, dancer, producer and instructor. In St. Louis she produces the St. Louis Burlesque Showcase and runs her troupe The Bon-Bons and their monthly retro, live band revue. She is also the instructor for her weekly, "Everything Burlesque" classes and has been teaching for nearly 3 years. Lola has performed for thousands of people, from coast to coast and has recently finished a tour of Europe and received 2nd runner up in the Queen of Burlesque competition in the New Orleans Burlesque Festival. All of this and more has garnered this saucy chanteuse a lot of attention and the tagline, "The Derriere Beyond Compare!"

1.) What got you into burlesque?

I usually say that I didn't get into burlesque, but that burlesque got into me! I have always performed as a singer, actress, dancer and voiceover artist. However, about 6 years ago I was asked by a local theater company to sing an original, saucy little song and choreograph a reverse strip to it. It was like I was doing burlesque without knowing it. I hear this a lot actually in the burlesque community. Then about a year later, I was performing in a jazz cabaret and a friend of mine told me about a new show that had started here in St. Louis called The Alley Cat Revue. I went to check it out, and saw a really rough show with no emcee, very few lights, basic costumes, but a lot of potential. I started the next week. Of course, the show got better and better, and became the only weekly burlesque revue in St. Louis for over 4 years.


2.) How long have you been performing? Been a producer?

Performing most of my life, but doing the burlesque, strip thing for about 5 years. I've been producing a little over 3.

3.) What do you find most difficult about wearing different "hats"? What's the most rewarding?

Remembering which hat I'm wearing! :) It can be really hard at times, because I have to wear the teacher hat, the producer hat, and the performer/peer hat, and often have to switch them frequently, some times in the course of an evening. I have to try to keep really solid lines drawn. When it's business time, I have to be in charge and direct and produce and lead, but shortly after that, hopefully, it's cocktail time and then we're all just gossipy and flirty and lovey with each other. Luckily, I work with some amazing people who really seem to understand those lines very well. I am also fortunate to work with and have a troupe that is full of lovely ladies I would call family. That is incredibly rewarding. Also, getting to see my students perform after months of hard work and perseverance is really inspiring and fantastic.




4.) You were a featured performer at the first annual NOLA Burlesque fest this pst September! What was it like dancing in the Queen showcase?

Nerve wracking! I am usually not a nervous person (stressed, at times, yes, but not usually nervous), but the day of the show was so intense for me! I have never had nerves like that. On top of that, I woke up really early for a radio interview that day, then had to rehearse with the band, then taught a workshop, and then had to immediately get all gussied up for the show. I thought I would be sick! However, it was also one of the most amazing and rewarding experiences of my life. I also got to spend time with some of the most incredible and beautiful women I've ever met. It was such an honor to share the stage with every single one of them; that itself was reward enough. But then to place with Catherine D'Lish and my dear friend, Perle Noire! Wow! I cried like a bride :)


5.) How did you decide to open up the STL charter of r. Sketchy's?

Well, this is actually the 2nd incarnation of STL Sketchy's. It was originally started a couple years ago by some lovely people, and I was the first model and helped them get it off the ground. After about 6 months or so, the original people had to stop running it, and so Sketchy's St. Louis kind of died for a bit. About a year ago, my friend, and local artist Tom Huck of Evil Prints decided to bring it back. I can't really draw to save my life (unless of course they're crayon drawings of flowers and fairies and suns wearing sunglasses), but I also can't stand seeing something so cool just stagnate. I figured if no one else would start it, I would! We now have monthly sessions at Evil Prints, which is an amazing place to hold a drawing club, and we're having a ball!


5.) You are such a busy gal! How do you keep your head on straight? Tell us one of your secrets to sanity!

I am so lucky to have wonderful, real people around me that help keep me sane. I also take lots of walks in the park where I live. I definitely believe in the power of endorphins, and fresh air really does wonders. Teaching my weekly dance class really centers me too. It's always fun, and I always leave renewed in my resolve and passion to keep going.


6.)Do you believe in magic?

Why, yes! Sometimes, I believe that I am magic and that I have mystical seductive powers, and that throwing around glitter and rhinestones is like waving a magic wand. ;)

Vinny's Q&A: Intimate Wear and How to Wear it!

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Halloween Show - THE WAKE in Deep Ellum!

So, yours truly absolutely LOVES Halloween - when else can you dress up crazy and become someone totally different, and be given CANDY for it??? Awesome! So, here's my Halloween candy treat for you -

The Wake, hosted by Nomad Arts, will be a night of infinite fun, fright, mayhem and adventure!

Live music from 6 of Dallas' hottest bands with 7 drop dead gorgeous burlesque performers!
DJs and video projections on 3 separate floors.

Massive 15,000 sq.ft. 3 story event complex.
Including lounge areas and rooftop patio facing downtown.

Costume contest with $1,000 in cash and prizes!

I'm even featured on the website, along with my fellow lovely friends performing that evening! Check us out!



See you there??

Vivienne

This is a Christmas show you won't forget!

burle

www.myspace.com/giftsandgarters

Now, I'm among the throngs of folks who HATE seeing Christmas stuff crammed down our throats before Halloween.... but... it's NEVER too early for burlesque, even a Christmas burlesque revue! Add the above page and keep watch for new and exciting news! I will be a featured performer at this show, debuting my biggest, most sparkliest (is that a word? Can I make it a word?) routine YET. Don't miss this! Also - add thier sister show -

www.myspace.com/hotrodsandheels

It was an AMAZING show last May, and it proves to be great again this next year!

Cheers!

Vivienne

Hey all you hip cats and cool chicks, ready for some real interaction with yours truly?

...Sorry boys and girls, not that kind of interaction...

What I'm talking about is the brand spankin' new Q & A portion of this blog! That's right you will be able to submit all of your atomic age, pin up, burlesque lifestyle questions and you'll leave the answering to me! Have a question about vintage hair products? Or maybe what foundation wear is best worn under satin? Want some good literature on this swinging performance art? How about what drink to order that pretty thing at the end of the bar? Ask away, the topics are limitless! Please do keep topics as specific as possible though so I can help you out as best I can dolls! Questions should be answered within two weeks of submission!

Please submit all questions to vinnyvelour@gmail.com 

xoxo

Vinny

The Herstory of a Tempest

What’s 44DD-25-35, red all over and has a wicked sense of humor? Well if my title didn’t give it away, you’ve been living under that proverbial rock. Still need a hint?  She’s one of the most beloved Ecdysiasts of all time! Okay now everyone together say, “ Tempest Storm”…see dolls, you’re catching on.  Her name wasn’t always so provocative though, like many of our other well-known femme fatales of Burlesque, she too had a humble and obstacle-ridden beginning.

Tempest was actually born Annie Blanche Banks, in the very small town of Eastman, Georgia to sharecropping parents.  A place she fled as soon as she could. She led a very tumultuous life up until her mid 20s; surviving constant sexual abuse at the hand of her father as well as being raped by a local gang. An event that was not easily overcome for Annie. Despite the violence around her, Annie eventually married and divorced twice and ended up leaving that town, to put the past behind her and she moved on to start a new life. One she decidedly would not live in fear of.  Annie was a survivor.

In the 1950s she legally adopted her stage name, Tempest Storm. She landed gigs right away due to her winning personality; her sharp mind…and her “money makers” (as she affectionately referred to her own breasts). She got her start as a chorus girl before establishing herself in some memorable “c” films and on stage. She was most notable for the exquisite control she had over her body, and her natural flaming red hair. She called the Oakland Theatre home for a number of years. She also graced many stages in Las Vegas, and around the world for that matter performing her exceptional burlesque routines. She has adorned the covers of countless magazines for both women and men, and has become a cult icon due to her performances in films like Irving Klaw’s Teaserama (also featuring our beloved Bettie Page).  Tempest is said to have had the longest burlesque performance career, spanning over an astounding 40 years! Tempest made it her mission to break down social taboos, and continued to disrobe into her 60s, embracing her figure and flaunting it with pride (Muller/Faris, Grindhouse). Even though she officially retired at the age of 60, she continues to make special appearances and one-time-only performances.

This dame knew what life was about, and chose to embrace it and live it to its fullest! She has inspired and empowered throngs of women ever since she began performing, and say what you will, she is still shakin’ it in her 80s! This is one icon of a woman, who did the unpopular thing by divorcing herself of not just her husbands but of her prescribed societal gender role too! Be sure to check out the many films featuring our lovely Tempest, and pick up her biography (Tempest Storm: The Lady Is a Vamp) while you’re at it!

xoxo

Vinny