tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-45134195881637640342024-02-20T17:37:29.467-08:00The Lair of Lady MonsterLady Monsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376603117327936142noreply@blogger.comBlogger92125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4513419588163764034.post-15345814904687892412023-04-02T21:47:00.002-07:002023-04-02T21:47:51.111-07:00Toni Elling<p><span style="font-family: arial;">Miss Toni Elling has passed. May she rest in peace. May 13, 1929 - April 2, 2023</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">April 2014, <a href="http://texasburlesquefestival.com/" target="_blank">Texas Burlesque Festival</a> in Austin, featuring the burlesque legend, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/toni.elling" target="_blank">Toni Elling</a>. </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdIkLjcVH93GfaRoEC9LJFwHAJoE5X9xUhErx_2ChMDXyn3LBz_dnYAhUZ7z5k4Bru7ruu0Z8kdJFN_AREJZpjHLGNLsYxf7bJWM9e_t8mm4Zrn5l0uB3sgOl9MZ-FoeVrEPE9fNA2f_BGEYGNeT0NiYAeW_birlg7bykiRC6Z8HvpgJAeuT45JKdR/s320/ToniElling1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="238" data-original-width="320" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdIkLjcVH93GfaRoEC9LJFwHAJoE5X9xUhErx_2ChMDXyn3LBz_dnYAhUZ7z5k4Bru7ruu0Z8kdJFN_AREJZpjHLGNLsYxf7bJWM9e_t8mm4Zrn5l0uB3sgOl9MZ-FoeVrEPE9fNA2f_BGEYGNeT0NiYAeW_birlg7bykiRC6Z8HvpgJAeuT45JKdR/s1600/ToniElling1.jpeg" width="320" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9om28Ki16gOjLQSb-uoSP91FQlpqHVuT0xt67JI3HSULTL8IDR64nSUw5NA6HMYtiljiDprnK2VbFAgWmzNDGHoShYRziZ8nuCIxdHRQDIz0XZO-3uOM_dMBRjxIDeVb_1aH4I14wPfo3jB2Eg8wFav5kygTFN_5f2mQGDOgr_3lWyBtZOh_PmQdf/s320/ToniElling2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="212" data-original-width="320" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9om28Ki16gOjLQSb-uoSP91FQlpqHVuT0xt67JI3HSULTL8IDR64nSUw5NA6HMYtiljiDprnK2VbFAgWmzNDGHoShYRziZ8nuCIxdHRQDIz0XZO-3uOM_dMBRjxIDeVb_1aH4I14wPfo3jB2Eg8wFav5kygTFN_5f2mQGDOgr_3lWyBtZOh_PmQdf/s1600/ToniElling2.jpeg" width="320" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Toni approached the stage, bowed to our applause and thanking us said, “You are all my angels.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">The night before, on Friday, she performed her signature burlesque routine to “<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wTFPV1pk654" target="_blank">Satin Doll</a>”, a <a href="http://www.dukeellington.com/" target="_blank">Duke Ellington</a> classic composition, wearing her original costuming.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">The brunch audience was asked to present questions.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">The following are some actual quotes, paraphrases and incomplete quotes. I apologize to those that are not credited with their questions. I hope this provides a picture of what she gave to us during the brunch.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I asked, “Let’s start at the beginning. How did you become a burlesque performer?”</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Toni:</span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">A friend in Detroit, Rita Revere became a stripper. She tried to get me to become one too. I was appalled with the idea. I worked at the telephone company, was there for years, but never promoted because of color.</span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">A woman producer trained dancers, took me under her wing. She asked me what I knew about performing burlesque. I said, ‘The name of the game is Strip Tease and that explains it, says it all. What else is there to know?’</span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">I started at the best club in town. I could have started at a real dive, but thought, ‘if I’m going to do this, I’m not going to go where I’d be ashamed to even walk in the door.’ So, I went to the best club in town. That night, <a href="http://www.jackiewilson.net/" target="_blank">Jackie Wilson</a> was the headliner. He broke me in, watched me perform, was right down in front, then waited for me backstage. He hugged me and I told him he better hold on tight ‘cause I might just fall down. I mean, this was Jackie Wilson!</span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">My first job was in the small town of Lima, Ohio and I shared a dressing room with a singer, Vanilla.</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Dulche de Leche asked, “”When you had a creative energy lull, what made you persevere?”</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Toni:</span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">“It was my job. Rita, in talking to me, would encourage me, showing me paystubs. I saw what kind of money she was making and that’s why I got into the business. I wanted to make more money, but Rita, she passed as whiter, as Spanish and made more money. I could have tried to pass as Spanish instead, but I insisted that they buy my talent, not my color. My daddy’s black and I will not be otherwise. I didn’t work much in Detroit, I worked where I could. But, it was my job and I performed my shows whether I wanted to or not, no matter how hard or easy the job was.</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">“A typical audience, who did you perform for, was it mostly men? Or were there a lot of women like in today’s audiences?”</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Toni:</span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">“The audiences were mostly men. Women came in with their husbands. When women liked the show, it felt special. People would bring their children to see me perform. It was a tribute to me, because my act was clean, it was a compliment. I was respectable to my audience. I never flirted with a man that had a woman with him. Don’t fool with another woman’s man.”</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">“How did you meet Duke Ellington and begin to work with him?”</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Toni:</span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Duke Ellington and I were the best of friends. We met during a World War II broadcast from a theater, for the troops. We didn’t see one another again for years. It was at the Gotham Motel. It was an all black motel, used by a lot of traveling entertainers. He was in town to play the Paradise. I was going into the drug store in the lobby of the hotel and while I was coming out, he saw me and approached me and said, “Who’s little girl are you?” I was taken back and said, “I don’t know, my mother’s and father’s, I guess.” I made him laugh and he asked for my phone number. He called me that night, late, like around 3 or 4 in the morning. It woke me up! I answered it and asked, “Who is this?” He says, “It’s your Uncle Edward.”</span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">I responded, “I have no Uncle Edward. If you don’t tell me who this is, I’m going to hang up.” He laughs, tells me it’s him, and I about died of embarrassment. I told Duke Ellington I was going to hang up on him. Then he says, “I just called you to say, ‘Good Morning’, and are you going to pick me up and take me to my job?” I didn’t have a car, but I knew of one I could borrow. So, I went that night in this car and picked up Duke Ellington and I took him to work. Over the years, I developed a close friendship with his son, Mercer too. Mercer was a trumpeter.</span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Duke was my favorite person. When I told him about my name choice, he was so proud. He loved that I was using his name. I was a singer when I took the name, but I didn’t use the name for years after I stopped being a stripper.</span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">I took a job in Japan. It was for 10 weeks, but I ended up staying for six months. Three clubs wanted me to be a singer. I sang during my acts. I started in burlesque to get to know the clubs, the circuit, make some money, get the costumes – all to be a singer.</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">“Tell us about the arc of your career.”</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Toni:</span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">1960 was my first performance, and my last was in 1974. I lost my brother in 1969, and my dad in 1970. I was working in Portland, Oregon and moved back home. I felt like the business was becoming too tawdry.</span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Sparkly Devil (aka Sarah Klein) wrote <a href="https://www.blogger.com/u/2/blog/post/edit/4513419588163764034/3787425832217471291#" target="_blank">an article about black strippers for the Metro Times</a>. She wanted to interview two people. She got connected to me and Lottie The Body. Sparkly told me she was a stripper, had been to Exotic World. Sparkly told me about Dixie Evans. In 2006 Lottie and I attended Miss Exotic World in Las Vegas together with Sparkly. Lottie was a judge and I strutted on stage for legends’ night. I never knew that I strutted. I saw a video during the weekend of me when I was on stage, and I strutted. It made me cry, made me proud. I had never seen what I looked like on stage before. I didn’t know I looked like that. People had told me for years that I strutted, but didn’t realize what they were talking about.</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">“With newer shows and Neo-Burlesque, what do you think of our version of burlesque?”</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Toni:</span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">You don’t want to know.</span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="http://www.burlesquehall.com/about/dixie-evans-1926-2013/" target="_blank">Dixie (Evans)</a> asked me to return the next year to perform. She said, “You have a year to prepare.” I replied, “I will do it for you.” Now, it’s my 9th year returning. Dixie would say, “The duty of a legend is to be a mentor. Only you legends know that and can do that.”</span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">I don’t believe screwing a pole is necessary, it’s not entertainment. Vulgarity is not necessary. It takes time to tease. Shows now are more like revues, not burlesque, not entertainment. Vulgarity is what I can’t stand. Don’t put your clothes on the floor. That is your living. Don’t throw that on the floor. That dress has come a long way with me. I can’t defile it. Take care of your tools – your shoes, undies – they are your tools of the trade. I lost a gig once because I wouldn’t toss my costume pieces to the audience. They called me a Diva. I didn’t know what a diva was.</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">“Do you have choreography?”</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Toni:</span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Choreography is phony. Listen to the music. It tells you how to move. I do whatever the music dictates at the moment. First, I walk, I get a feel for the audience, the mood. I do what comes to me at the time. Every time I perform, it is different. I don’t rehearse, never did. I do what you (the audience) tell me to do.</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Dainty Dandridge asked, “What is it like dancing all these years as a God-fearing woman?”</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Toni:</span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">I am a Baptist. The preacher came to my house one time. I was doing a saloon number. The preacher, he gave me his spats to wear. He wore spats all the time, and he gave me his for my routine, to use as a pattern on my costuming. I went to my brother, who is four years younger, talked to him about my career and my faith. He said, “Be yourself. Do whatever you want. Don’t let anything hold you back.” You can’t please everyone, nor should you try. You have to be happy.</span></b></p>Lady Monsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376603117327936142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4513419588163764034.post-37874258322174712912016-05-13T11:42:00.000-07:002016-05-13T11:43:42.378-07:00Toni Elling<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">2014 <a href="http://texasburlesquefestival.com/" target="_blank">Texas Burlesque Festival</a><br />Featuring the burlesque legend, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/toni.elling" target="_blank">Toni Elling</a>.</span></b></div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="text-align: start;"></span></span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="text-align: start;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="text-align: start;">
</span><b style="text-align: start;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWSW4CBRyOc3j9vAVQzK1_dlOznNyN0n8mASNhKAqMIqap7SmGk-KSvBSR-FISVDG5Rv2oPqUSMfnL4vp-c1375RTPekidft5jtxLNtlkAR131hV1mcH7xIZq0hsgeT1WZlbsr7Q_mAXk/s1600/ToniElling1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWSW4CBRyOc3j9vAVQzK1_dlOznNyN0n8mASNhKAqMIqap7SmGk-KSvBSR-FISVDG5Rv2oPqUSMfnL4vp-c1375RTPekidft5jtxLNtlkAR131hV1mcH7xIZq0hsgeT1WZlbsr7Q_mAXk/s320/ToniElling1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgni8CGTFxoiSQZlR7XZSN1dZu_6wMpbPoV2A_6EATsAYyo4VO6ub2XftA-IqqVmvw88JHzp7HmTcN9W3M-Bdxhw95uetRyqo-_KGsn4LS4aiKxUfZV-TNHVLbrR57Nl2D7iHMhrLp9yw/s1600/ToniElling2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgni8CGTFxoiSQZlR7XZSN1dZu_6wMpbPoV2A_6EATsAYyo4VO6ub2XftA-IqqVmvw88JHzp7HmTcN9W3M-Bdxhw95uetRyqo-_KGsn4LS4aiKxUfZV-TNHVLbrR57Nl2D7iHMhrLp9yw/s320/ToniElling2.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgni8CGTFxoiSQZlR7XZSN1dZu_6wMpbPoV2A_6EATsAYyo4VO6ub2XftA-IqqVmvw88JHzp7HmTcN9W3M-Bdxhw95uetRyqo-_KGsn4LS4aiKxUfZV-TNHVLbrR57Nl2D7iHMhrLp9yw/s1600/ToniElling2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><br /></b></div>
</b></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<b style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /><br /></span></b><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />Friday, May 13, 2016</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Happy Birthday Toni! </span></b></span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>April 2014, Texas Burlesque Festival, Austin, Texas. </i><br />Toni
approached the stage, bowed to our applause and thanking us said,
“You are all my angels.”<br />The night before, on Friday, she
performed her signature burlesque routine to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wTFPV1pk654" target="_blank">“Satin Doll”</a>, a <a href="http://www.dukeellington.com/" target="_blank">DukeEllington</a> classic composition, wearing her original costuming. <br /><br />The
brunch audience was asked to present questions.
</span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The following are some actual quotes,
paraphrases and incomplete quotes. I apologize to those that are not
credited with their questions. I hope this provides a picture of what
she gave to us during the brunch.
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I asked, “Let’s start at the
beginning. How did you become a burlesque performer?”</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Toni:<br />A friend in Detroit, Rita
Revere became a stripper. She tried to get me to become one too. I
was appalled with the idea. I worked at the telephone company, was
there for years, but never promoted because of color. <br />A woman
producer trained dancers, took me under her wing. She asked me what I
knew about performing burlesque. I said, ‘The name of the game is
Strip Tease and that explains it, says it all. What else is there to
know?’<br />I started at the best club in town. I could have started
at a real dive, but thought, ‘if I’m going to do this, I’m not
going to go where I’d be ashamed to even walk in the door.’ So, I
went to the best club in town. That night, <a href="http://www.jackiewilson.net/">Jackie
Wilson</a> was the headliner. He broke me in, watched me perform,
was right down in front, then waited for me backstage. He hugged me
and I told him he better hold on tight ‘cause I might just fall
down. I mean, this was Jackie Wilson! <br />My first job was in the
small town of Lima, Ohio and I shared a dressing room with a singer,
Vanilla. </b>
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />Dulche de Leche asked, “”When you
had a creative energy lull, what made you persevere?”</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Toni:<br />“It was my job. Rita, in
talking to me, would encourage me, showing me paystubs. I saw what
kind of money she was making and that’s why I got into the
business. I wanted to make more money, but Rita, she passed as
whiter, as Spanish and made more money. I could have tried to pass as
Spanish instead, but I insisted that they buy my talent, not my
color. My daddy’s black and I will not be otherwise. I didn’t
work much in Detroit, I worked where I could. But, it was my job and
I performed my shows whether I wanted to or not, no matter how hard
or easy the job was. </b>
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />“A typical audience, who did you
perform for, was it mostly men? Or were there a lot of women like in
today’s audiences?”</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Toni:</span></b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">“<b>The audiences were mostly men.
Women came in with their husbands. When women liked the show, it felt
special. People would bring their children to see me perform. It was
a tribute to me, because my act was clean, it was a compliment. I was
respectable to my audience. I never flirted with a man that had a
woman with him. Don’t fool with another woman’s man.”</b></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />“How did you meet Duke Ellington and
begin to work with him?”</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Toni:<br />Duke Ellington and I were
the best of friends. We met during a World War II broadcast from a
theater, for the troops. We didn’t see one another again for years.
It was at the Gotham Motel. It was an all black motel, used by a lot
of traveling entertainers. He was in town to play the Paradise. I was
going into the drug store in the lobby of the hotel and while I was
coming out, he saw me and approached me and said, “Who’s little
girl are you?” I was taken back and said, “I don’t know, my
mother’s and father’s, I guess.” I made him laugh and he asked
for my phone number. He called me that night, late, like around 3 or
4 in the morning. It woke me up! I answered it and asked, “Who is
this?” He says, “It’s your Uncle Edward.” <br />I responded, “I
have no Uncle Edward. If you don’t tell me who this is, I’m going
to hang up.” He laughs, tells me it’s him, and I about died of
embarrassment. I told Duke Ellington I was going to hang up on him.
Then he says, “I just called you to say, ‘Good Morning’, and
are you going to pick me up and take me to my job?” I didn’t have
a car, but I knew of one I could borrow. So, I went that night in
this car and picked up Duke Ellington and I took him to work. Over
the years, I developed a close friendship with his son, Mercer too.
Mercer was a trumpeter. <br />Duke was my favorite person. When I told
him about my name choice, he was so proud. He loved that I was using
his name. I was a singer when I took the name, but I didn’t use the
name for years after I stopped being a stripper. <br />I took a job in
Japan. It was for 10 weeks, but I ended up staying for six months.
Three clubs wanted me to be a singer. I sang during my acts. I
started in burlesque to get to know the clubs, the circuit, make some
money, get the costumes – all to be a singer.</span></b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />“Tell us about the arc of your
career.”</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Toni:<br />1960 was my first
performance, and my last was in 1974. I lost my brother in 1969, and
my dad in 1970. I was working in Portland, Oregon and moved back
home. I felt like the business was becoming too tawdry. <br />Sparkly
Devil (aka Sarah Klein) wrote an <a href="http://www2.metrotimes.com/arts/story.asp?id=8034">article
about black strippers for the Metro Times</a>. She wanted to
interview two people. She got connected to me and Lottie The Body.
Sparkly told me she was a stripper, had been to Exotic World. Sparkly
told me about Dixie Evans. In 2006 Lottie and I attended Miss Exotic
World in Las Vegas together with Sparkly. Lottie was a judge and I
strutted on stage for legends’ night. I never knew that I strutted.
I saw a video during the weekend of me when I was on stage, and I
strutted. It made me cry, made me proud. I had never seen what I
looked like on stage before. I didn’t know I looked like that.
People had told me for years that I strutted, but didn’t realize
what they were talking about. </b>
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />“With newer shows and Neo-Burlesque,
what do you think of our version of burlesque?”</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Toni:</b><br /><b>You don’t want to
know. </b>
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><a href="http://www.burlesquehall.com/about/dixie-evans-1926-2013/" target="_blank">Dixie (Evans)</a> asked me to return the next
year to perform. She said, “You have a year to prepare.” I
replied, “I will do it for you.” Now, it’s my 9</b><sup><b>th</b></sup><b>
year returning. Dixie would say, “The duty of a legend is to be a
mentor. Only you legends know that and can do that.” <br />I don’t
believe screwing a pole is necessary, it’s not entertainment.
Vulgarity is not necessary. It takes time to tease. Shows now are
more like revues, not burlesque, not entertainment. Vulgarity is what
I can’t stand. Don’t put your clothes on the floor. That is your
living. Don’t throw that on the floor. That dress has come a long
way with me. I can’t defile it. Take care of your tools – your
shoes, undies – they are your tools of the trade. I lost a gig once
because I wouldn’t toss my costume pieces to the audience. They
called me a Diva. I didn’t know what a diva was. </b>
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />“Do you have choreography?”</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Toni:<br />Choreography is phony.
Listen to the music. It tells you how to move. I do whatever the
music dictates at the moment. First, I walk, I get a feel for the
audience, the mood. I do what comes to me at the time. Every time I
perform, it is different. I don’t rehearse, never did. I do what
you (the audience) tell me to do. </b>
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />Dainty Dandridge asked, “What is it
like dancing all these years as a God-fearing woman?”</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Toni:<br />I am a Baptist. The
preacher came to my house one time. I was doing a saloon number. The
preacher, he gave me his spats to wear. He wore spats all the time,
and he gave me his for my routine, to use as a pattern on my
costuming. I went to my brother, who is four years younger, talked to
him about my career and my faith. He said, “Be yourself. Do
whatever you want. Don’t let anything hold you back.” You can’t
please everyone, nor should you try. You have to be happy.</span></b></div>
Lady Monsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376603117327936142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4513419588163764034.post-10766324278805576552014-12-03T21:18:00.001-08:002015-03-09T14:14:55.867-07:00Classes<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I teach a variety of workshops - open to all genders, ages, and regardless if you are a performer. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Welcomed across North America - these workshops have been taught throughout the San Francisco Bay Area, Vancouver, Toronto, Columbus (OH), Chicago, Baltimore and in Austin (TX) at <a href="http://www.cocolectric.com/Site/Austin_Academy_of_Burlesque.html" target="_blank">Coco Lectric's Academy of Burlesque</a> and in Portland, Oregon. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>Positively Lovely</u></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A workshop about loving our bodies, releasing judgments and falling in love with every inch of you.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>Presenting: YOU!</u></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Open to anyone that wants to build their confidence in front of others. Also teaches stage presence and audience contact. Please wear comfortable clothing. We will be moving around. </span><br />
<b style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u><br /></u></b>
<b style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>The Science of Spinning</u></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Teaching Satans Angel's method of pastie and tassel making - and the physics involved in tassel twirling. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>Strip For Your Lover</u></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Perfect for a new bride! This class is an introduction to striptease to perform for a partner. Very basic elements, moves, costuming.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhV1VbqsH8Bzgpsd0RJHuDu8OiogwXjMsxIqXxGT38GH2OUkSlWb7Q_KINaVY-5gsOQ4mDPQbohtOPirvbb0m5Ddbpq-06EQ7RW9jNrNDndAubQ5F5xxvKv1DTaHKxJ2x7aG0SqPtsj4c/s1600/Classes_Image_Peach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhV1VbqsH8Bzgpsd0RJHuDu8OiogwXjMsxIqXxGT38GH2OUkSlWb7Q_KINaVY-5gsOQ4mDPQbohtOPirvbb0m5Ddbpq-06EQ7RW9jNrNDndAubQ5F5xxvKv1DTaHKxJ2x7aG0SqPtsj4c/s1600/Classes_Image_Peach.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Lady Monsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376603117327936142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4513419588163764034.post-47295604686232013182014-02-10T20:13:00.001-08:002015-03-02T01:38:21.583-08:00RevaLucian Memorial<i>For <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Heather-MacAllister-aka-Reva-Lucian/275085328380">Heather</a>, February 13, 2014. <br />
Love, Lady Monster</i> <br />
February 25, 1968 - February 13, 2007 (aged 38)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv_cvlN-vAB-n3WePM5IPNZxXaL4DL8p_I-1wMz1rK3MJVPt0Ey_FSfXo9aig03ppxu4TI1pc_vvZ7CKAuF9jLAL5Tx74ORRUzGsAWEM6UoXRlm9KstKS1btWGsQrBMJ0yJHSu3GX3hqY/s1600/Heather.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv_cvlN-vAB-n3WePM5IPNZxXaL4DL8p_I-1wMz1rK3MJVPt0Ey_FSfXo9aig03ppxu4TI1pc_vvZ7CKAuF9jLAL5Tx74ORRUzGsAWEM6UoXRlm9KstKS1btWGsQrBMJ0yJHSu3GX3hqY/s320/Heather.jpg" /></a></div>
<center>
(Heather MacAllister by Leonard Nimoy)</center>
<br />
<br />
In September 2005, while touring Southern California and Arizona with <a href="https://www.facebook.com/candyekaneband">Candye Kane</a>, the Fat-Bottom Revue stopped in Los Angeles for a second photo shoot with Leonard Nimoy.<br />
<br />
Heather was invited by Leonard, to be photographed for his project Maximum Beauty in late 2004. The troupe had just lost dancer Sunny Perkins (Mia Amore) from a tragic car accident. The troupe was unsure of whether to continue without her. They voted, and decided to push on, holding auditions and doing the photoshoot. He began showing the images in NYC, including having them shown on a TV broadcast by the Style Network in 2005, using the title Maximum Beauty (see below for the link). <br />
<br />
He first contacted Heather after Zoe Wiseman saw Leonard at his exhibit for The Shekina Project (an earlier book of photographs). She asked him why he only used thin models, and would he be interested in photographing women with larger bodies. He said, “Yes”. Zoe introduced him to Fat-Bottom Revue. <br />
<br />
Heather kept the name of the photographer a secret from the models for the first shoot. It wasn't until they arrived at the gallery that the models realized they were getting naked for Spock! For the second shoot, Heather once again hand-picked who she wanted in the photographs and told us all to keep it very hush-hush. We were also to not ask him for autographs or to bother him about his role as “Spock”. <br />
<br />
When we arrived at the <a href="http://hammer.ucla.edu/">Hammer Gallery</a> in Los Angeles, we realized this large, modern art museum was closed to the public for us. We had the entire space to ourselves. We spent a few minutes in the bathroom, finishing up hair and make-up, then undressing. Leonard and his wife Susan and two photography assistants were there. At the photo shoot the models included: <br />
Heather<br />
Jukie Sunshine<br />
Ginger Virago<br />
Lady Monster<br />
Sita<br />
Anita Martini (Roni Gallimore)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuFLITJynHNs9JEVYyfZo0arepbU_cypVeegP4RTRcFghAkt9_VORVoTIqkHLooL3D8TwCBFJNOXgGgDtdayfem9wO8LxPLCzvMMj-CiN7uZ9ZR-U4WWHN4jY99z3NeY3FNTgjULQL-hg/s1600/staircase_still.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuFLITJynHNs9JEVYyfZo0arepbU_cypVeegP4RTRcFghAkt9_VORVoTIqkHLooL3D8TwCBFJNOXgGgDtdayfem9wO8LxPLCzvMMj-CiN7uZ9ZR-U4WWHN4jY99z3NeY3FNTgjULQL-hg/s200/staircase_still.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Our first pose was Nude Descending A Staircase, modeled after <a href="http://faculty.polytechnic.org/gfeldmeth/nude.jpg">Marcel Duchamp's cubist painting</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdC1UfH5pfozlQQTtqFUU0lD8cg1yjhfvzbQ2GdlOSWz6hyqGn0PMBGCVoFOIMiAiAM0knqn0vU-nS87Qy8KHYs5rh52CIlasODt2X-8g9eP2ul-BXIYIS2qGzSAV1KZ3ip9itdrCSoe8/s1600/staircase_move.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdC1UfH5pfozlQQTtqFUU0lD8cg1yjhfvzbQ2GdlOSWz6hyqGn0PMBGCVoFOIMiAiAM0knqn0vU-nS87Qy8KHYs5rh52CIlasODt2X-8g9eP2ul-BXIYIS2qGzSAV1KZ3ip9itdrCSoe8/s200/staircase_move.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Music was turned on, we began to dance and we were photographed.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtDSB9qDQ5repq_NMW3fjvhjOFO2FPy5OVlyL6R-1uhyphenhyphenwUKggDqilWu0acB0r-G2C7vUUSLNNstOp2HYlWg2p6STOiNbEcf6R12lVAKhjp_exBaMcg9OjA0p1iDOYySl5vnGkW86LnM8Y/s1600/staircase_dance.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtDSB9qDQ5repq_NMW3fjvhjOFO2FPy5OVlyL6R-1uhyphenhyphenwUKggDqilWu0acB0r-G2C7vUUSLNNstOp2HYlWg2p6STOiNbEcf6R12lVAKhjp_exBaMcg9OjA0p1iDOYySl5vnGkW86LnM8Y/s200/staircase_dance.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
It warmed us up, and got us feeling comfortable with what he was going after. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiaQ4EcBWzmydWXfRQtcHVpM3it7H_N_oOQHlYiflov90nARukGErOFD2uGlylvmi4pRGrvR2KoLTxcyMUsyI2nD97fW0mec7f_Eee7GGnH6E1PTJYqVqT3D01orKDPG4Ox3JXwmcAoHo/s1600/graces.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiaQ4EcBWzmydWXfRQtcHVpM3it7H_N_oOQHlYiflov90nARukGErOFD2uGlylvmi4pRGrvR2KoLTxcyMUsyI2nD97fW0mec7f_Eee7GGnH6E1PTJYqVqT3D01orKDPG4Ox3JXwmcAoHo/s200/graces.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
He took some of the models (Jukie, Ginger and Sita) aside to create <a href="http://jssgallery.org/Other_Artists/Raphael/3-graces.jpg">The Three Graces</a> image by Raphael.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjECw4fT5og-jCl0_L3yUwXwZR35Tx1aTOzCvN5Tqfju8WbjEwoOboeilwXqEfx8LwCsbt0J0vV8sjo3B6mtiOYpu3W4JxZV7PUrYlAi39Dcrly05SF2gyCW7emy3Iip4U_WXLWIOfmpGQ/s1600/shangri+la.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjECw4fT5og-jCl0_L3yUwXwZR35Tx1aTOzCvN5Tqfju8WbjEwoOboeilwXqEfx8LwCsbt0J0vV8sjo3B6mtiOYpu3W4JxZV7PUrYlAi39Dcrly05SF2gyCW7emy3Iip4U_WXLWIOfmpGQ/s200/shangri+la.jpg" /></a></div>
We were photographed upstairs for the second pose in front of the large mirrored sculpture by Patty Chang, titled <a href="http://hammer.ucla.edu/image/1571/600/450.JPG">Shangri La</a>. He wanted us to be primitive, as if we were seeing ourselves for the first time, circling the mirrored mountain. This was more serious, not a lot of laughing or giggling.<br />
<br />
<br />
When Leonard was finished getting his shots in this setting, he said, “Alright ladies, let's all go downstairs for one more pose”. I forget who it was that began the song, but the moment will always stay with me. Six naked fat women prancing around the staircase, cascading down, singing at the top of our lungs, “<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5dvfGCE-O4c">Whatever Leonard wants</a>, Leonard gets!”. He definitely enjoyed hearing that and was laughing. <br />
<br />
We stood at the bottom of the stairs, waiting for Leonard and his assistants to finish upstairs and get set up downstairs again. The sun was starting to set and the marble floors of the courtyard were getting cold. Heather was not able to keep her body temperature up and she asked us to huddle around her. We were rubbing Heather with our hands to warm her up. Then, Leonard saw this gathering as a new shot. He practically sprinted up a large ladder to peer down on us, using available light. As he wrapped his arms around the ladder and peered through his camera, he shouted, “Yes Ladies! Rub! Rub Rub!”. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyVLAkUW5SxZlLDx4lqHWX7RV24o5qGXtWs8dCJwPASBdBwNwhcTLlxaRB9PRB08V36G7p8X52XVIO1A_srhIhHR6zI_xhewjUH84HMIJkxBvrl9fe0lqlghBOWiEzs8p8Dtoj4vM86Y4/s1600/Rub.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyVLAkUW5SxZlLDx4lqHWX7RV24o5qGXtWs8dCJwPASBdBwNwhcTLlxaRB9PRB08V36G7p8X52XVIO1A_srhIhHR6zI_xhewjUH84HMIJkxBvrl9fe0lqlghBOWiEzs8p8Dtoj4vM86Y4/s200/Rub.jpg" /></a></div>
Hearing his iconic voice, with carnality and humor, the tenderness of our helping Heather suddenly burst into bawdy laughter. Ginger began to vigorously rub Heather with her booty. I turned around to shimmy against her too. We were all just dying laughing while he took a series of photos. It made him blush.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCT5uKfBd7CCa9UCVGWvKG1A4YJXu-4dU5plW35iKsH18brFKkwglZcKnC0buj01SyfeJtf09w7n2Z_cT6B9xdBO4o1IbTBYZrvTdN3aDCQmfwG6LS5KElPC4bz2zb5kPHO51l7jrKRhk/s1600/Zz300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCT5uKfBd7CCa9UCVGWvKG1A4YJXu-4dU5plW35iKsH18brFKkwglZcKnC0buj01SyfeJtf09w7n2Z_cT6B9xdBO4o1IbTBYZrvTdN3aDCQmfwG6LS5KElPC4bz2zb5kPHO51l7jrKRhk/s200/Zz300.jpg" /></a></div>
Then he asked us to begin to dance in a circle, holding hands, to fulfill his last pose, reinterpreting Matisse' Dance I. The joy and affection from the previous pose spilled into our dance, and Leonard chose this pose to use on t-shirts. These t-shirts were sold in galleries, prior to the book being available.<br />
Before we met with him, he sent Heather an email with some ideas of poses. She forwarded to us the DeChamps, Matisse and Rafael so we were familiar with the images when we posed. <br />
<br />
<br />
At last, Leonard felt he had his photos and Heather spoke up and wanted us to do a kickline. Heather LOVED a good kickline, especially with her troupes. Group numbers often incorporated it for a big show. Here she is counting it out and providing direction. I was scolded for bringing my leg up too high, and not in line with the other dancers. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpghCu1RmOUOsrs3wAHNaUO_ao0shPC6yWoG1zwOrK3zDxpDgbsiW95Ylc58MfOVv4ZCGGt_WnHQ6j-m4C3tfsohc1Xgx4HTY-wt4J0VwkYDKHvC5xul6kA8ayw5LmSvCj28BwWvgvhhA/s1600/kickline1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpghCu1RmOUOsrs3wAHNaUO_ao0shPC6yWoG1zwOrK3zDxpDgbsiW95Ylc58MfOVv4ZCGGt_WnHQ6j-m4C3tfsohc1Xgx4HTY-wt4J0VwkYDKHvC5xul6kA8ayw5LmSvCj28BwWvgvhhA/s200/kickline1.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0-xbGXbJs4xuJnXEdPBLUOYPyDw-mIF_neTs6f5MFe9ZBywE3Pd6BhV0aklpH7k2ddCVYUKO0tKvf6IBSI8n2l82XFG4Qw0L9spoIJiaSg0zakrLsxGw3Sj6K0Nun7yPFz6g-nAX3Pfo/s1600/kickline2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0-xbGXbJs4xuJnXEdPBLUOYPyDw-mIF_neTs6f5MFe9ZBywE3Pd6BhV0aklpH7k2ddCVYUKO0tKvf6IBSI8n2l82XFG4Qw0L9spoIJiaSg0zakrLsxGw3Sj6K0Nun7yPFz6g-nAX3Pfo/s200/kickline2.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvD-Vh2n-fYV3en25VVYMhnhUWNhhg61aszH63YghjqtMmcz9YzVwnRxHlGV3wsrhJjE6gbKQ2vvCez-Eeuc4dEnTKXvDAFcbTapysvh_Ty4L9t4U-xUO27ZkD5z5mxwUhkO0URyBqYF0/s1600/kickline3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvD-Vh2n-fYV3en25VVYMhnhUWNhhg61aszH63YghjqtMmcz9YzVwnRxHlGV3wsrhJjE6gbKQ2vvCez-Eeuc4dEnTKXvDAFcbTapysvh_Ty4L9t4U-xUO27ZkD5z5mxwUhkO0URyBqYF0/s200/kickline3.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
When this shot was captured, Heather said that Leonard should join us for a final photo. Then Ginger spoke up and said, “Only if you're naked though” and someone began to chant, “Strip!”. <br />
His wife, assistants – all of us began to chant, “Strip! Strip! Strip!”. Leonard turned three shades of red, waving his hands back and forth, saying, “no, no”, “no no”, laughing. We relented and let him join us. <br />
I wish I had that photograph, the image of Leonard with his arms around us, his legs flying high in the air. I like to say, “I had my naked body pressed up to Leonard and our legs were flying up into the air.” He stood right between myself and Jukie. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWp2bhPyFekR5yUbCkn6USYTlprFBRiJUN4iHljNrMASTuB9PFsa1chL85ay4xd7xvH3l7xyDcLjFa_iXZ-S8nUcug8EtOzUhmtfKR0KGlWX_C8TXExuqxsDwQtCRM28KiLRBLVs86la8/s1600/benefat_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWp2bhPyFekR5yUbCkn6USYTlprFBRiJUN4iHljNrMASTuB9PFsa1chL85ay4xd7xvH3l7xyDcLjFa_iXZ-S8nUcug8EtOzUhmtfKR0KGlWX_C8TXExuqxsDwQtCRM28KiLRBLVs86la8/s200/benefat_3.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Heather did not tell Leonard about her cancer until I produced the event, BENEFAT on January 14, 2006 to raise money for Heather, and to raise her spirits when she had a serious infection. (Flyer by Pam Doré, aka Mr. Pam)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
When Heather passed, the others from the photoshoot voted for me to take Heather's place as a spokesperson for the book. This resulted in me being featured in a very cheesy segment on EXTRA TV with Leonard. The footage was taken at his home in Beverly Hills, July 2008. <br />
<br />
Here is the EXTRA TV segment: <br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/1Vc-ZSQUhx8" width="420"></iframe><br />
<br />
Here is the Style Network segment: <br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/PyDfhnAS8lM" width="420"></iframe><br />
This footage includes a small clip of Fat-Bottom Revue performing at <a href="http://darkroomsf.com/">The Dark Room</a> in San Francisco. <br />
<br />
<br />
Here is a telephone interview I conducted with Leonard for a radio program I hosted about The Full Body Project. I was a speaker at the Full Body Symposium at the R. Michelson Gallery in Northampton, Massachusetts in November 2007.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dz9KgBu1MgMcX8qFae7IebAQoVdbPFf3in-aITiOvEAkaextLnNkrVwdXpM2UOdpNipwo-ldnM4M9c6lPySJw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br /><a href="https://vimeo.com/120852359">https://vimeo.com/120852359</a><br />
<br />
<br />
"<i>Any time there is a fat person onstage as anything besides the butt of a joke, it's political. Add physical movement, then dance, then sexuality and you have a revolutionary act.</i>" - Heather MacAllister, aka Reva Lucian Lady Monsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376603117327936142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4513419588163764034.post-30980010276191411452013-12-30T23:12:00.001-08:002013-12-30T23:13:31.768-08:00Sex Advice Columns<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://columbusfreepress.com/sites/default/files/styles/medium/public/profiles/photos/Lady%20Monster%20Image.jpg?itok=kn5w0qP_" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://columbusfreepress.com/sites/default/files/styles/medium/public/profiles/photos/Lady%20Monster%20Image.jpg?itok=kn5w0qP_" /></a></div><br />
<br />
The <a href="http://columbusfreepress.com/"><b>Columbus Free Press</b></a> has a list of my recent columns published in their weekly paper at the following link:<br />
<a href="http://columbusfreepress.com/profile/lady-monster"><b>http://columbusfreepress.com/profile/lady-monster</b></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
If you have a question or a topic you would like to have covered in this column, please go to: <a href="http://ladymonstersex.info"><b>http://ladymonstersex.info</b></a> and click on the link for the Google form.<br />
Or, call <b>(614) 636-0936</b> and leave a message in my Google Voice Mail Box.<br />
Both options are 100% anonymous. Thank you.<br />
* * * * * * * * * *<br />
<br />
Here is a listing with a brief description for all that have been published this year:<br />
<br />
December 19, 2013<br />
<a href="http://columbusfreepress.com/article/lair-lady-monster-losing-my-erection"><b>Losing My Erection</b></a><br />
<i>Erections vary, they are not a constant. They are affected by emotion, visual and mental stimulation. If an uncomfortable emotion, thought or image comes into the picture while erect, you're going to have a variation – no matter your age or record of virility.</i><br />
<br />
December 12, 2013<br />
<a href="http://columbusfreepress.com/article/%EF%BB%BFdecember-17th-international-day-end-violence-against-sex-workers"><b>December 17th is a Red Umbrella Day</b></a><i><br />
International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers has empowered workers from cities around the world to come together and organize against discrimination and remember victims of violence. During the week of December 17th, sex worker rights organizations will be staging actions and vigils to raise awareness about violence that is commonly committed against sex workers. The assault, battery, rape and murder of sex workers must end.</i><br />
<br />
December 5, 2013<br />
<a href="http://columbusfreepress.com/article/lair-lady-monster-piercings"><b>Genital Piercings</b></a><br />
<i>Genital piercings are a very personal choice. Ultimately, the choice to receive them is for extra sensitivity and pleasurable sensations during sexual activity.</i><br />
<br />
November 27, 2013<br />
<a href="http://columbusfreepress.com/article/lair-lady-monster-trans-day-remberance"><b>Interview with Fonda Lingue</b></a><br />
<i>In honor of last week's Trans Day of Rememberance and Trans Awareness Week, I asked International Dancer and Burlesque Performer, Fonda Lingue some questions.</i><br />
<br />
November 20, 2013<br />
<a href="http://columbusfreepress.com/article/lady-monster-how-can-i-ask-my-wife-sex"><b>How Can I Ask My Wife For Sex?</b></a><br />
<i>All of these questions and many more that I haven't come up with could provide insight to her discomfort, mistrust, and fears for not wanting to share her most intimate gift with you.<br />
The length of your marriage shows you are committed. It’s important, though, to not take each other for granted.</i><br />
<br />
November 13, 2013<br />
<a href="http://columbusfreepress.com/article/lady-monster-carlos-batts-memorial"><b>Memorial for Carlos Batts</b></a><br />
<i>On Tuesday, October 22nd, the sex-positive community lost a fearless leader, Carlos Batts. This beloved artist passed away at the age of 40. His work and spirit touched many of us, leaving us stunned and saddened by his sudden departure.</i><br />
<br />
November 6, 2013<br />
<a href="http://columbusfreepress.com/article/%EF%BB%BFpublic-displays-sex-and-sexuality"><b>Public Displays of Sex and Sexuality</b></a><br />
<i>During the Halloween season, there is a lot of flesh being exposed...Let’s think about some things that may have come up, for the next time you choose to be sexy in public.</i><br />
<br />
October 31, 2013<br />
<a href="http://columbusfreepress.com/article/%EF%BB%BFhead-let%E2%80%99s-get-down"><b>HEAD: Let's Get Down</b></a><br />
<i><b>An Intimate Experience</b><br />
Giving head is so pleasureful and intense. There are few things that can compare with the intimacy of this sexual act. Placing your mouth into the heart of sensitivity and sexuality to cause arousal, manipulating the movements of your tongue, lips, face, hands all at once, concentrating so many nimble movements - solely to give your partner pleasure. Think of all the variations of sensations that can be applied. It is a personal decision and a beautiful expression of intimacy.</i><br />
<br />
October 24, 2013<br />
<a href="http://columbusfreepress.com/article/lair-lady-monster-orgasms"><b>ORGASMS</b></a><br />
<i>Depending on how you choose to define orgasm or “good sex” - the possibilities of sexual pleasure are limitless. It is how each of us limits ourselves, and where we choose to go.<br />
<br />
For more insight and inspiration for your orgasms, and the various types of orgasm that can be achieved, I recommend reading this brand new anthology of erotic short stories, The Big Book of Orgasms: 69 Sexy Stories by prolific erotica writer/editor Rachel Kramer Bussel. Each story is about achieving orgasm. Short, hot and steamy revelations. An excellent bedside companion for yourself or story time with a partner. You can find this book through Cleis Press.</i><br />
<br />
October 10, 2013<br />
<a href="http://columbusfreepress.com/article/lair-lady-monster-national-kink-month"><b>National Kink Month</b></a><br />
<i>How does one define “kinky?”<br />
Is it merely anything besides “vanilla?”<br />
Who says what is vanilla and what is kinky?<br />
How is the boundary established and how does one cross that imaginary line into the Land O'Kink?</i><br />
<br />
October 3, 2013<br />
<a href="http://columbusfreepress.com/article/lady-monster-oct-3"><b>Anal Sex</b></a><br />
<i>Thanks so much for posing a wonderfully intimate question.<br />
You are being cautious and smart, asking the best way to make anal sex pleasurable.<br />
In the words of <a href="http://www.nina.com/">Nina Hartley</a>, “You must earn butt, you cannot be given butt.” You obviously feel your husband has earned butt. This should be a great moment. Let me provide some tips.</i><br />
<br />
September 27, 2013<br />
<a href="http://columbusfreepress.com/article/lair-lady-monster-1"><b>Female Ejaculation</b></a><i><br />
Every woman has very different experiences with her urethral sponge. Some women do not ejaculate. Those who do, vary a lot. For some it's like a squirt gun, creating a sexual fountain effect. Some women gush like a flooded river, soaking through a thin mattress. Some create a “wet spot” with a few drops of fluid. Some have found penetration is the key, others have the experience exclusively from clitoral stimulation. It happens to some before orgasm, and others afterward. Some find stimulating this area very irritating or even painful because of its sensitive nature.</i><br />
<br />
September 20, 2013<br />
<a href="http://columbusfreepress.com/article/lair-lady-monster-what-ecosexuality"><b>What Is Ecosexuality?</b></a><br />
<i>Reader Question: What is Ecosexuality?<br />
<br />
Thank you reader for your question. I would like to introduce you to my friends, Beth Stephens and Annie Sprinkle, the founders of the <a href="http://sexecology.org/">Ecosexual</a> movement.<br />
“We're changing the metaphor from 'Earth as Mother' to 'Earth as Lover'”, <a href="http://www.loveartlab.org/">Elizabeth Stephens</a>, Artist, Ecosexual, Professor.<br />
“We aim to make the environmental movement more sexy, fun and diverse.”, <a href="http://www.anniesprinkle.org/">Annie Sprinkle, PhD</a>, Artist, Ecosexual, Sexologist.</i><br />
<br />
September 13, 2013<br />
<a href="http://columbusfreepress.com/article/lair-lady-monster"><b>Hello, I'm Lady Monster</b></a><br />
<i>Regardless of the questions I receive in this column, I will respond with positive, non-judgmental information. My goal is to provide educational, progressive and provocative insight to one's most primal of urges, and shine a light into our bedrooms to bring us all closer together.</i><br />
<br />
Lady Monsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376603117327936142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4513419588163764034.post-88605205300419485592013-09-04T11:00:00.000-07:002013-12-01T14:57:35.600-08:00SEXI write a weekly sex advice column for the free weekly, <a href="http://columbusfreepress.com/">Columbus Free Press</a>. <br />
<br />
My weekly column appears at the URL: <a href="http://columbusfreepress.com/article/lair-lady-monster-0">http://columbusfreepress.com/article/lair-lady-monster-0</a><br />
<br />
<br />
If you have a question or a topic you would like to have covered in my weekly Sex Advice column, please fill out this anonymous form linked below, or call (614) 636-0936 and leave a message in my Google Voice Mail Box. <br />
<br />
Both options are 100% anonymous. <br />
<br />
Click on this link to fill out the online form with your question: <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/16dpVBuoaJQ4PZAc3DbGPW4FKwJ17u2WOEn_gfl4agV0/viewform"><br />
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/16dpVBuoaJQ4PZAc3DbGPW4FKwJ17u2WOEn_gfl4agV0/viewform</a><br />
<br />
It shows up in my Google Drive, without knowing who sent it.<br />
<br />
I promise to provide non-judgmental, sex-positive and informative answers. <br />
<br />
Thank you. <br />
Lady Monsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376603117327936142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4513419588163764034.post-42072878694535522462013-07-03T22:31:00.003-07:002013-07-15T18:48:37.127-07:00Doo DahThis has been a summer of feeling accomplished and getting shit done. I'm still out of work, but personal triumphs are coming in on a regular basis. This month I'm having a lot of fun doing some special events. Kind of like a summer break, but I'm certainly not idle. <br />
I'll be adding more to this blog later, but I wanted to get it down where you can find me out and about. <br />
<br />
<br />
Thursday, July 4th<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/292463580889978/"><b>30th Annual Doo Dah Parade</b></a><br />
Parade begins at 1pm in the Short North<br />
*I will be marching with <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Miss-Theresa/194768310600721?fref=ts">Miss Theresa</a> for the <a href="http://www.columbusburlesque.com">Columbus Burlesque Collective</a> contingent.*<br />
<br />
<br />
Saturday, July 6th<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/167601910083298/"><b>Stars & Strips</b></a><br />
Short North Stage<br />
1187 North High Street, Columbus<br />
Box office: 8pm<br />
Show: 9pm<br />
Tickets: $10<br />
*Annual USO benefit produced by Mon Cherie Entertainment*<br />
<br />
<br />
Friday, July 19th<br />
<a href="https://fetlife.com/events/181658"><b>Fetish Foreplay Friday</b></a><br />
<a href="http://clubprinceton.com/">The Princeton Club</a><br />
425 South Princeton Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43223 <br />
Doors: 7:30pm. Class: 8pm.<br />
Entry fee of $15.00 includes the class and playing at Princeton all night. BYOB and condoms.<br />
<i>*I will be co-teaching a class on burlesque with <a href="https://www.facebook.com/VenomVamp?directed_target_id=0">Venom Vamp</a>.*</i><br />
<br />
<br />
Thursday, July 25th<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/147229915470854/"><b>33 1/3 --- 45 --- 78</b></a><br />
Ace of Cups<br />
2619 North High Street @ Duncan, Columbus, Ohio 43202<br />
$5.00<br />
<br />
Featuring: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Dirty-Biscuits/300222670012512?directed_target_id=0">The Dirty Biscuits</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/fortshame?directed_target_id=0">Fort Shame</a>, Fes and the Black Panthers<br />
DJs Shirley Tobias & Andrew Patton<br />
Special birthday treat presented by <a href="http://www.facebook.com/firetassels"><b>Lady Monster</b></a><br />
<br />
<br />
Friday, July 26th<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/470035809746069/"><b>Viking Fest</b></a><br />
The Shrunken Head<br />
Doors: 8PM<br />
Music: 9PM<br />
Age: 18+<br />
Cover: $5<br />
*Miss Theresa and I will be appearing together.*<br />
Lady Monsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376603117327936142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4513419588163764034.post-41724118444425606052013-06-01T12:14:00.000-07:002013-06-13T00:34:52.099-07:00CommunityI love finding community - people of a like cause and purpose, creating bonds and filling a space in our environment with love and goodwill. Without community in burlesque, there is just ego, a lack of creativity and purpose. Coming to Columbus, I have had to search out my burlesque community, and I have found a core of extremely supportive and loving people. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/antionette.seducteur">Antoinette Seducteur</a>, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/KittyMystique">Kitty Mystique</a>, <a href="http://www.despoticfurs.com/">Miss Theresa</a>, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/kristakittyrules">Krista Kitty</a> and myself are the founding members of the <a href="http://www.columbusburlesque.com">Columbus Burlesque Collective</a>. I designed and created a logo, then we created the <a href="http://columbusburlesque.blogspot.com/p/guidelines-for-membership.html">Guidelines</a> together. On May 31st, we launched the website and made the announcement, asking others to join us, with love. <br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCaYrQmezK54SSO-egl2g3uD99hxl5mKNoAm-X8ovdcDROKqyNnCe1CxjfxWZLs62XX6WP22vuYn99pTr9ti5fCn_cImCj_dkpzamEfAP_35kFcCVFn1kPDVeqkt-oVKm06d-ceToMMcM/s1600/CBC_Front_Web.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCaYrQmezK54SSO-egl2g3uD99hxl5mKNoAm-X8ovdcDROKqyNnCe1CxjfxWZLs62XX6WP22vuYn99pTr9ti5fCn_cImCj_dkpzamEfAP_35kFcCVFn1kPDVeqkt-oVKm06d-ceToMMcM/s320/CBC_Front_Web.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
I want to thank the Texas Burlesque Festival (Coco Lectric, Imogen Kelly, Dirty Martini and Lynn Raridon), Rena LaMarr and Tiger Roxx for their inspiration, assistance and support in creating the Columbus Burlesque Collective. <br />
<br />
<br />
Please join me on the following dates, to feel the love of burlesque, performance and community. Especially at <a href="http://www.comfest.com">Community Festival</a>. Since 1972, this festival has been run by volunteers and maintained by vendor and beer/wine booths, only. Everyone donates their time and performances, filling 6 stages from Noon to 10pm Friday through Sunday in Goodale Park, near Downtown and the Short North. Take a moment to check out how much there is to offer, the variety of community and the abundance of love available. <br />
<br />
<br />
Saturday, June 8th<br />
<a href="http://livingflameproductio.wix.com/br2013#!presenters/c2414"><b>Babylon Rising</b></a> <br />
French Lick, IN<br />
Camping Fee: $15.00<br />
8:00PM<br />
*<i>I will be performing fire tassels with a live band, <a href="http://www.reverbnation.com/mayanruins">Mayan Ruins</a></i>*<br />
<br />
<br />
Friday, June 14th<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/165984683571125/"><b>Creme de la Femme</b></a><br />
Circus<br />
Columbus, OH<br />
Doors: 9:30pm. Show: 10:00pm<br />
Cost: $6.00<br />
*I will be twirling fire tassels*<br />
<br />
<br />
Saturday, June 15th<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/569652326400734/?ref=2"><b>Prohibition</b></a><br />
Hal & Al's<br />
1297 Parsons Avenue, Columbus, OH<br />
9:00PM<br />
<b>FREE SHOW!! </b><br />
<br />
<br />
Saturday, June 22nd<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/420856574678576/"><b>A Night of Burlesque</b></a>, featuring trivia and amateur tassel twirling<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/theshrunkenhead">The Shrunken Head</a>, 251 West 5th Avenue @Neil, Columbus<br />
Doors: 8pm<br />
18+<br />
Cover: $7<br />
*I will be twirling fire tassels*<br />
<br />
<br />
Friday, June 28th<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/168463443323748/"><b>Columbus Burlesque Collective</b></a><br />
<a href="http://www.comfest.com">Community Festival</a>, Live Arts stage, Goodale Park, Columbus, OH<br />
7:45 - 8:05pm<br />
FREE!!<br />
<i>QUICK SET!! DON'T MISS A MINUTE!!!</i><br />
*I will be twirling water tassels*<br />
<br />
<br />
Saturday, June 29th<br />
<b>Circus of Cool</b><br />
<a href="http://www.comfest.com">Community Festival</a>, I Wish You Jazz stage, Goodale Park, Columbus, OH<br />
4:00 - 5:00pm<br />
FREE!!<br />
*I will be reading my own poetry with live jazz music*<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmF9xZ-rWKZPN7EOyj8sMq2BUioooD0OVER_kuI5ARkQOJ_TODOwK4tbv_xaUeDmtO_rHWSCaNPOKsZ9NO-TMjojYmUA_ysGbvz1ig2AWaK61ou20q_cMuJvQDUtvp3MPH_Bk5vUS5h9A/s1600/June13.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmF9xZ-rWKZPN7EOyj8sMq2BUioooD0OVER_kuI5ARkQOJ_TODOwK4tbv_xaUeDmtO_rHWSCaNPOKsZ9NO-TMjojYmUA_ysGbvz1ig2AWaK61ou20q_cMuJvQDUtvp3MPH_Bk5vUS5h9A/s640/June13.jpg" /></a><br />
Lady Monsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376603117327936142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4513419588163764034.post-46147676345453346572013-05-01T21:16:00.002-07:002013-05-01T21:21:28.273-07:00AnniversaryMay always marks my performance anniversaries.<br />
<br />
Lady Monster was born in May 1992, in the basement of the Acme Art Gallery in Columbus, Ohio.<br />
It was a performance art free-for-all - mash-ups, comedy, poetry, dance - whatever we could do under bare bulbs hanging from the rafters and a dirty cement floor. Holding paper bags with king cans of Budweiser, embraced with the smoke of 50 people smoking at once in a small space. We called it <b>Cafe Ashtray</b>. Every month I would venture to this space, becoming more bold each time. Finally in February of 1993, I started my own poetry event, <b>Lady Monster Day</b>. I continue to write and read my poetry aloud. Next up is <a href="http://www.comfest.com">Community Festival</a>, the last weekend of June, in Columbus, Ohio at <b>Circus of Cool</b> on the I Wish You Jazz stage. <br />
I may not always have burlesque in my life, but I will always have writing.<br />
<br />
It also marks my burlesque anniversary. <br />
I auditioned to be part of Heather MacAllister's <b>Fat-Bottom Revue</b> in January, 2005. I was accepted into the troupe in February. I had my first rehearsal in March, and premiered my first number (as a solo artist) in May. In September we toured the West Coast opening for blues singer, <a href="http://www.candyekane.com/"><b>Candye Kane</b></a>, were photographed by <a href="http://twitter.com/TheRealNimoy"><b>Leonard Nimoy</b></a> for <a href="http://www.rmichelson.com/Artist_Pages/Nimoy/pages/MaxBeaut.htm"><b>The Full Body Project<b></b></b></a> book and I performed in <a href="http://teaseorama.com/2012/"><b>Tease-O-Rama</b></a>. One helluva way to be thrust into this new role as a burlesque performer. <br />
At the <a href="http://www.sexworkerfest.com/">Sex Worker Film & Arts Festival</a>, I made my debut. I've performed mostly as a solo performer since then. When Heather was about to pass from ovarian cancer, she dissolved the troupe. <br />
I've threatened to quit a few times, but after 8 years, I see no reason to stop performing burlesque now. <br />
<br />
Please help me celebrate at two shows this month that are sure to be humdingers. <br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.fiercequeerburlesque.com"><b>FIERCE! - The First International Queer Burlesque Festival</b></a><br />
Thursday, May 2nd<br />
Bossy Girl's Pin-Up Joint<br />
2598 N. High St, Columbus<br />
Doors: 8pm<br />
Show: 9pm<br />
I GO ON FIRST! DO NOT BE LATE!<br />
<a href="http://fiercequeerburlesque.eventbrite.com/#"><b>Tickets are available here</b></a>, and at the <b>door</b>. <br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/453846361356576/"><b>Creme de la Femme</b></a><br />
Friday, May 10th<br />
Circus<br />
1227 North High Street @Fifth Avenue, Columbus<br />
Doors: 9:00pm<br />
Show: 10:00pm<br />
2 bands, 2 sets of burlesque. Stay for the whole show. <br />
<i>*I will be twirling fire*</i><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibFkdkKAoD8kKAoNd_23qBMnuAK6JWywkc4HYXc4TSrRRHgv1c_j2MMDTn8E-VkNtceotpbLpj8ggjDWqYtmq1PINXM1PolhIa611C2b2NXPEnjQrYgTl0KOCyu0783ELEX4ldbkaunmw/s1600/Zz299.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibFkdkKAoD8kKAoNd_23qBMnuAK6JWywkc4HYXc4TSrRRHgv1c_j2MMDTn8E-VkNtceotpbLpj8ggjDWqYtmq1PINXM1PolhIa611C2b2NXPEnjQrYgTl0KOCyu0783ELEX4ldbkaunmw/s320/Zz299.jpg" /></a><br />
Photograph by Leonard Nimoy, taken at the Hammer Gallery in LA. In order: Sita, Me, Roni, Heather, Ginger, JukieLady Monsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376603117327936142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4513419588163764034.post-83587088031962300412013-04-04T01:11:00.002-07:002013-04-04T22:35:38.736-07:00FaceBookFacebook stated on 04/03/13 that I was using my regular profile as a business page and forced me to convert it to a page.<br />
<br />
However, most of 1000+ photos were NOT transferred to this page.<br />
NONE my events, messages, groups, likes, timeline, notes, etc. were transferred either. <br />
I am being forced to start over from nearly scratch.<br />
<br />
I checked Facebook on my phone during my lunch break at work and all was fine. I came home and it was gone. No warning, nothing.<br />
<br />
I am appalled with their inability to properly socially interact with their customer base, and be so rude and socially crippling.<br />
<br />
Hopefully someone at Facebook will pull their head out of their ass and restore my profile. <br />
<br />
In the meantime, please "like" this new fan page: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/ladymonster">http://www.facebook.com/ladymonster</a> and/or add me as a friend to my new profile page: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/firetassels">http://www.facebook.com/firetassels</a><br />
<br />
If we have communicated with either messages, via a group or event invites, please re-send everything to either profile, or just communicate via my email address: stephanie @LadyMonster .com .<br />
<br />
Having a fan page does not allow me to see a "timeline" of what others are posting. Because of this fiasco, I will be using Twitter more often now and have synced my Facebook fan page and my Twitter feed to be the same. Please feel free to follow me there: <a href="http://www.twitter.com/lady_monster">http://www.twitter.com/lady_monster</a> .<br />
<br />
Thank you.Lady Monsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376603117327936142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4513419588163764034.post-56497733686980965712013-04-01T15:12:00.000-07:002013-04-21T12:45:30.475-07:00Refresh <br />
<b>refresh</b> [ri-fresh]<br />
Part of Speech: verb<br />
Definition: make like new; give new life <br />
<br />
Main Entry: comfort<br />
Part of Speech: verb<br />
Definition: make to feel better <br />
<br />
Main Entry: embolden<br />
Part of Speech: verb<br />
Definition: encourage <br />
<br />
I received a gift by going up to Detroit for <a href="http://www.facebook.com/events/157487214404210">the benefit for Lushes LaMoan</a> on March 23rd. I was surrounded by so much love. It affected me directly and healed up a troublesome situation. I want to thank <a href="https://www.facebook.com/lusheslamoanburlesque">Lushes</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/missannasassin">Anna Sassin</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheIncendiarySweetLillyBee">Sweet LillyBee</a> for the invitation and making me a part of this event. <br />
<br />
This season of spring, rebirth, and regeneration is showing itself in a variety of ways to me. I am feeling the growth of the changes I've gone through the past year and a half. Also, I'm able to apply to burlesque festivals again and have a glimmer of hope of getting out and about with my art.<br />
<br />
I hope that I am able to see my friends and fans at some of these events, and to make new friends. <br />
<br />
<u>April Performances</u><br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/events/433172046770177/"><b>Prom-O-Rama</b></a><br />
Saturday, April 6th<br />
The Shrunken Head. 251 West 5th Avenue, Columbus.<br />
9:00pm<br />
$5.00<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://texasburlesquefestival.com/"><b>Texas Burlesque Festival</b></a><br />
April 11-13th<br />
Saturday Night Competition<br />
<a href="http://texasburlesquefestival.com/tickets.php">Click here for Tickets</a><br />
*<i>I will be twirling fire</i>*<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/events/449794905102838/">Creme de la Femme</a></b><br />
Friday, April 26th<br />
Circus. At the northwest corner of N. High Street and Fifth Avenue, Columbus.<br />
10:00pm<br />
$6.00<br />
*<i>I will be twirling fire</i>*<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/events/553548138011752"><br />
<b>Fabulously Fluid</b></a> <br />
Saturday, April 27th<br />
Wall Street Night Club. 144 N. Wall Street, Columbus<br />
8:00pm<br />
$5.00<br />
*I will be performing twice - the number I performed at the Texas Burlesque Festival (sans fire) and a drag king number.*<br />
Fabulously Fluid! is a benefit for the TransOhio Transgender and Ally Symposium, which will be taking place April 26th-28th, 2013. https://www.facebook.com/events/161319854001738/?fref=ts<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBviaqSq9EtPvlc3_OepwsDlYTDpN3ZIS-TiXBLAf5gmG0yyd37ZmGCJ-vm2s_aLiwO_MPbblBfIznnitX00DfSr5dJojLSKx5MjpZ3Ha5sTkE9FDorzQc16-DGac3Qq-6XNfbiS9QW5I/s1600/Spring.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBviaqSq9EtPvlc3_OepwsDlYTDpN3ZIS-TiXBLAf5gmG0yyd37ZmGCJ-vm2s_aLiwO_MPbblBfIznnitX00DfSr5dJojLSKx5MjpZ3Ha5sTkE9FDorzQc16-DGac3Qq-6XNfbiS9QW5I/s320/Spring.jpg" /></a><br />
Lady Monsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376603117327936142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4513419588163764034.post-18166279840655267892013-03-01T08:26:00.000-08:002013-03-01T23:28:42.377-08:00LIONMarch is roaring in like a lion for me, especially with this morning's news.<br />
<br />
I just learned that I have been accepted to be re-admitted to the Ohio State University for Fall Semester! I'm enrolling in their Fresh Start program and going back for my Bachelor of Arts degree in <a href="http://sexualitystudies.osu.edu/">Sexuality Studies</a>.<br />
<br />
I would like to thank <a href="http://www.anniesprinkle.org">Annie Sprinkle</a> for writing me a Letter of Recommendation, Nicole Henares for inspiring me to go back and to my parents for their loving support when I went back to receive my Associate of Arts degree Fall Semester 2012.<br />
<br />
Last night, I received word that I will be published in the <a href="http://writingourselveswhole.org">Writing Ourselves Whole</a> chapbook, <a href="http://fiercehunger.tumblr.com/">Fierce Hunger</a>. The book will become available on March 2nd at their <a href="http://writingourselveswhole.org/?page_id=74#Events">book release event</a> at <a href="http://www.sexandculture.org">The Center for Sex and Culture</a> in San Francisco. Please attend, help out an extraordinary group that works to heal survivors through writing. The chapbook is from those that have attended their workshops and have written about sex, violence, trauma and love. <br />
<br />
<br />
I have several performances coming up, including going to Detroit and posing in the nude. I hope you can make it to one of the shows, or participate online in the benefit. I AM TWIRLING FIRE TASSELS AT FOUR SHOWS THIS MONTH!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMVq-CpPcvBANUYP09KCyothX_DUxzcn7gOsMp9KSgLoKgcOzfpCu4t97n4lM2RkWqPf1jkrJ3xJDYa7eC_GfBWLdveu0x0HK-ry0lkrddIO_dPtKQKR0mJaBmSFRP1WX15OxqrD66I88/s1600/March+2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMVq-CpPcvBANUYP09KCyothX_DUxzcn7gOsMp9KSgLoKgcOzfpCu4t97n4lM2RkWqPf1jkrJ3xJDYa7eC_GfBWLdveu0x0HK-ry0lkrddIO_dPtKQKR0mJaBmSFRP1WX15OxqrD66I88/s320/March+2013.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
Saturday, March 2nd<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/346790575433710/"><b>Shim Sham Shimmy Review</b></a><br />
The Shrunken Head. 251 West Fifth Avenue @ Neil. Columbus.<br />
$5.00 / 9:00PM<br />
Featuring: Bellydance, Burlesque and the band, Besius.<br />
*<i>Twirling Fire</i>*<br />
<br />
<br />
Friday, March 8th<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/226095200867619/"><b>Creme de la Femme</b></a><br />
Circus. 1227 North High Street @ Fifth. Columbus.<br />
$6.00 / 10:00PM<br />
Featuring: Bands, Burlesque and Comedy<br />
*<i>Twirling Fire</i>*<br />
<br />
<br />
Saturday, March 9th<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/279389048856562/"><b>Erotic & Roll</b></a><br />
Victory's. 543 S. High Street @Hoster. Columbus<br />
$5.00 / 9:00PM<br />
Featuring: The Electro Cult Circus, Burlesque, Bands and Comedy<br />
*<i>Twirling Fire</i>*<br />
<br />
<br />
Wednesday, March 20th<br />
<b>Wild Goose Figure Drawing</b><br />
Wild Goose Creative. 2491 Summit Street @Hudson. Columbus<br />
7:00 - 9:00PM - ARRIVE PROMPTLY<br />
$7.00. Tables, chairs and model provided. Please bring your own art supplies. <br />
*I will be posing in the nude.*<br />
<br />
<br />
Saturday, March 23rd<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/157487214404210"><b>A Luscious Evening: A Benefit for Luscious LaMoan</b></a><br />
Lushes LaMoan severely injured her foot and is still going through surgeries. Since she is not working, her medical bills are piling up. Which is why we’ve decided to host A Luscious Evening: The Benefit for Lushes LaMoan. Join us for a night of burlesque, varietease, and live music. We’ll also have a Fine Art Raffle, Rummage sale, Silent Art Auction, and a Spanking Booth.<br />
So come dance, drink, bid, and get spanked!<br />
Tangent Gallery / Hastings Street Ballroom. 715 East Milwaukee St, Detroit<br />
*<i>Twirling Fire</i>*<br />
<br />
<br />
If you are unable to attend the event, but would like to send in a monetary donation, please go to: <br />
<a href="http://www.gofundme.com/22jmjw"><b>http://www.gofundme.com/22jmjw</b></a><br />
<br />
<br />
As always, I'm available for private one-on-one or group lessons in burlesque. I come to your home and can stay 1-3 hours, depending on how intensive you want the lesson. We can cover a variety of themes: Confidence, Body Image, History, Technique and my specialty: Tassel Twirling. stephanie@ladymonster.com <br />
Lady Monsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376603117327936142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4513419588163764034.post-8716983838225202172013-01-07T23:13:00.000-08:002013-01-09T12:42:58.989-08:00Purrrlesque!Building, making, repairing, planning, creating, traveling - lots of stuff happening in my down time right now.<br />
<br />
Looking forward to getting out and about in the coming months, showing off a new act, selling tasseled pasties, hitting the road, teaching workshops, and more.<br />
<br />
I even built a pair of shelves for my record albums. I found one board in the eaves of my apartment (I have four large eaves that act as walk in closets), then bought more lumbar, cut it to size, stained it, drilled in some brackets and VOILA! No more Peaches wood crates and easier accessibility to my albums. It is near identical to the shelves I bought from Craigslist and had in San Francisco (then gave away). So happy with them!<br />
<br />
If you want to catch me performing live, please come to one (or more) of these events. <br />
<br />
Friday, January 11th<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/events/509909219030521/"><b>Creme de la Femme</b></a><br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/circuscolumbus">Circus</a>. 1227 North High Street @5th Avenue, Columbus<br />
Doors: 9:30pm<br />
$6.00<br />
Bands, Burlesque, Comedy and so much fun. <br />
I will be performing two routines (no fire).<br />
<br />
<br />
Sunday, January 13th<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/aspens.escape"><b>Aspen Escape's Cirque du Gay</b></a><br />
2210 E Dublin Granville Rd, Columbus (@Maple Canyon Rd)<br />
8:00pm<br />
$5.00<br />
*I will be performing a fire tassel routine.*<br />
Aspens 2nd Cirque Du Gay.. A 3 ring Contest for Drag Queens, Drag Kings and Burlesque Performers!!.. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Alexis1Stevens?group_id=0">Alexis Stevens</a> will be our Fabulous host and there will be $100 cash given to the winner in each category!!.. It's chosen by audience applause so tell everyone you know!!.. Circus attire encouraged! <a href="https://www.facebook.com/aspen.reign?group_id=0">Aspen Reign</a> Will also be in attendance!<br />
<br />
<br />
Friday, January 18<br />
<a href="http://us4.campaign-archive1.com/?u=5def199b4d357444aa2bb24ee&id=e7ee510cd9"><b>The 2nd Annual Purrrlesque Follies Charity Burlesque Fest</b></a><br />
The Triad Stage. 232 South Elm Street, Greensboro, North Carolina<br />
Weekend Pass: $120 (does not include private class instruction)<br />
Monies raised go to <a href="http://girlsrocknc.org/mission/">Girls Rock NC!</a><br />
The festival lasts from Thursday to Sunday. I will be performing Friday night in the main showcase.<br />
Headliners include Peek-A-Boo Pointe and Nasty Canasta!<br />
<br />
For advance ticket purchase for the show only, please use these links:<br />
<a href="http://purchase.tickets.com/buy/TicketPurchase?pid=7413594">Friday Night Show</a><br />
<a href="http://purchase.tickets.com/buy/TicketPurchase?pid=7413595">Saturday Night Show</a><br />
<br />
<br />
Saturday, January 19<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/292289044207113/"><b>Presenting: YOU!</b></a><br />
The Triad Stage. 232 South Elm Street, Greensboro, North Carolina<br />
Dressing Room.<br />
11:30am<br />
Cost: $20.00<a href="http://www.purrrlesque.com/#!purrrlesque-follies-workshops/c1a5o"><br />
To purchase advance tickets to the workshop, please click here.</a><br />
*I will be teaching my workshop, <b>Presenting: YOU!</b> as part of the Purrrlesque Follies Charity Burlesque Fest. This class teaches confidence, presence and engaging attention in public speaking, performances and every day situations. Please wear comfortable clothing. We will be up and moving during the class.<br />
<br />
<br />
Thursday, January 24<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/events/302558266532026/">Cabin Fever - A Skitzo Show</a> <br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/KOBO.Columbus?ref=ts&fref=ts">KOBO Live</a>. 2590 North High Street @Hudson, Columbus<br />
Doors: 9:00pm<br />
Cost: $5.00<br />
ECC Presents.. our monthly burlesque, comedy music show..all these numbers are summer themed so we can get out of the winter blahs!<br />
*I came up with an opening number routine to be performed with Krista Kitty and The Skitzo Show. Don't be late!<br />
*I will also be performing my water tassel routine*<br />
<br />
<br />
And, keep your calendars open for: <br />
February 1-3<br />
<a href="http://www.sexapalooza.ca/shows/columbus_2013"><b>Sexapalooza - Columbus</b></a> <br />
<br />
<br />
Lady Monsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376603117327936142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4513419588163764034.post-49001784137666589812012-12-04T13:12:00.001-08:002012-12-09T21:57:51.700-08:00GraduationI have temporarily dropped out of the corporate world and gone back to school. With only 7 semester hours needed, I attended Columbus State Community College to achieve my Associate's Degree. Fifteen years have passed since I last attended any kind of college. I didn't attend right after high school. I worked full-time. I would attend a class here and there, but nothing regular and no declared major. <br />
<br />
On Friday, December 14th, I'll receive my Diploma for the Associate of Arts! <br />
Soon, I'll be on my way to Ohio State University, to pursue a Bachelor's Degree in Sexuality Studies. It's my goal to be finishing my Master's when I turn 50. <br />
<br />
Please wish me luck as I continue with this time of transition, to keep on track and not look back. <br />
<br />
In the meantime, here is my schedule of performances to date for December. It appears that Circus is the magic word for this month.<br />
<br />
Remember, I am available for hire for private parties - Birthday, Hanukkah, Solstice, Christmas, New Years, etc. I twirl fire tassels and light up marshmallows or candles for your entertainment. <br />
Here I am on November 23rd at Circus, celebrating my birthday. Lots of room for improv with the birthday guest of honor in this routine! <br />
<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/YZ6EETHUCHw" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
<br />
<br />
Friday, December 14th:<br />
After receiving my degree, I'll be celebrating on stage at <br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/events/388498434570562/"><b>Creme de la Femme</b></a><br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/circuscolumbus"><i>Circus</i></a>!<br />
1227 N. High St. @ Fifth, Columbus<br />
Burlesque, Bands and Comedy. This show happens on the 2nd and 4th Friday of every month with your host Mike Folker. <br />
Doors: 9:30pm. Admission: $6.00<br />
*I will be twirling fire. <br />
<br />
<br />
Friday, December 20th:<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/events/495654260468824/"><b>Celebrate the End of the World with Electro Cult Circus!</b></a><br />
<i>KOBO Live</i><br />
2590 North High Street, Columbus<br />
Count down to the END with special guests Ooh la la's, Sex Kittens, Kinky Kitty, Lady Monster, Dolls Of Evolved, bellydancing by Janaan Al Jahanni, Leyla Billman, magic and comedy by Erik Tait, more comedy shenanigans from The Skitzo Show - over 16 performers!<br />
Doors: 9:00pm. Admission: $5.00<br />
<br />
<br />
Saturday, December 28th:<br />
<b>Circus of Cool</b><br />
Krista Kitty's annual birthday/Holiday Bash<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/DicksDen"><i>Dick's Den</i></a><br />
2417 N. High Street @Blake, Columbus<br />
I was Don Pavelcik's "Partner-In-Crime" with Circus of Cool beginning in 1995 and then ran it for him when he became ill. In 1999 when Don passed away, I turned the reins for the show to Krista. She has continued to bring this show to Columbus and Community Festival. Please join us in celebrating a fantastic woman and performer with live jazz, poetry and burlesque - all to the Beat.<br />
Doors: 9:30pm. Admission: $4.00<br />
*I will be twirling fire. <br />
<br />
<br />
Lady Monsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376603117327936142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4513419588163764034.post-9317737453361624502012-11-07T20:48:00.000-08:002012-11-08T12:30:10.290-08:00Birthday!I'll be 44 on the 24th, and still twirling my tassels. <br />
In fact, I'll be lighting them on fire after the clock strikes Midnight on the 23rd (actual birth time 3:21am, after a half-hour of labor, that's 30 Minutes, folks). <br />
<br />
Help me celebrate my Birthday Month in the following ways:<br />
<br />
This just happened, but it's another reason to celebrate - <br />
<i>Barack Obama is once again The President of the United States!</i><br />
Remembering watching mine and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4G_7CzddUR4">Sadie Lune's 60-second "I Want You" performance pieces at the SF MoMA on November 4, 2008, Election Night</a>. I wore a blue sequin gown. After the performances, some friends and I went to watch the returns at the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts across the street. The line to get inside went around the block, so we decided instead to head toward the Castro. Jumping on an F streetcar, we made our way up Market Street. Then the announcement came, Barack Obama was elected President! People stopped what they were doing to run into the streets. Stopped their cars, buses, everything. The F car was forced to stop too. The streets filled up. We got almost to Church Street and went towards a bar. People started coming down the street with pots and wooden spoons, banging them together, shouting and cheering. This was happening all over town, all over America. I am really happy that he has been re-elected. I am more liberal than some of his policies, but he's a better choice than the scary Romney/Ryan ticket.<br />
<br />
<br />
From September 18 to October 12th, I organized <a href="http://www.indiegogo.com/fannieannie">a fundraiser on Indiegogo</a> with <a href="http://www.satansangel.com">Satan's Angel</a> for <a href="http://www.bigfannieannie.com">Big Fannie Annie</a> . This successful campaign brought in over $11,000 for her upcoming surgery and saved her life.<br />
Near the end of that campaign, I began putting together a benefit, so people could congregate in person, to donate to the cause. <br />
There is over $2,500 worth in raffle prizes and silent auction items available at this benefit, not to mention the venue donating the space and their staff. The performers are also all donating their time, travel costs and energy. <br />
I am excited for my first production upon my return to Columbus. <br />
Please join me for a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/453502984699798/">Big Bawdy Good Time</a>! 100% of the proceeds benefit Big Fannie Annie. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.theotherpaper.com/entertainment/article_f3513c24-29c0-11e2-900b-0019bb2963f4.html?mode=story">THANKS SO MUCH TO SARAH THOMPSON of The Other Paper for interviewing Big Fannie Annie, Satan's Angel and myself for this article, promoting the benefit.</a><br />
<br />
<br />
Once again, I get to perform burlesque with a live band, <a href="http://changeitupcharlie.com/">Change It Up Charlie</a>! If you missed this performance last month, please come to check it out. Or, if you enjoyed yourself, please come again. This is usually a rare occurrence, but I'm so happy to do it again, and so soon!<br />
<br />
I realize that my birthday falls at an awkward time. It always falls either on or near Thanksgiving. Most people travel out of town to be with family, or are busy preparing their own festivities. The following performances can provide an opportunity for you to celebrate my birthday with me, if you are unable to make it to the party on the 23rd at Circus. <br />
<br />
<br />
Here's a list of my performances in November:<br />
<br />
<i>Friday, November 9th</i><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/453502984699798/"><b>BIG BAWDY BENEFIT</b></a><br />
<a href="http://www.theshrunkenhead.net">The Shrunken Head</a>, 251 West Fifth Avenue @ Neil Avenue, Columbus, OH<br />
Doors: 9:30pm<br />
Show: 10:00pm<br />
Cost: $5.00<br />
21+ only<br />
<a href="http://kaisercolonic.tumblr.com">Kaiser Colonic</a> as the MC<br />
Burlesque, Magic, Singing and Lots of Comedy - all with a Blue light!<br />
<br />
<br />
<i>Friday, November 16th</i><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/115437398601816/"><b>BURLESQUE WITH A LIVE BAND</b></a>!<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Changeitupcharlie">Change It Up Charlie</a><br />
Bethel Road Pub, 1375 Bethel Road, Columbus, OH<br />
Doors: 9:00pm<br />
Cost: $3.00<br />
21+ only<br />
<br />
<br />
<i>Friday, November 23rd</i><br />
<b>Creme de la Femme</b><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/circuscolumbus">Circus</a>, 1227 North High Street @Fifth Avenue, Columbus, OH <br />
Doors: 9:30pm<br />
Show: 10:00pm<br />
Cost: $6.00<br />
21+ only<br />
Burlesque, Bands, Comedy - always a great time! Come help me blow out my candles! <br />
<br />
<i><br />
Saturday, November 24th</i><br />
<b>HAPPY BIRTHDAY LADY MONSTER!</b><br />
Hopefully I will be staying somewhere out of town.<br />
This is also the day of the OSU-Michigan game and it's at home. I would prefer not to be at home. Let me know if I can come stay with you!<br />
Lady Monsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376603117327936142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4513419588163764034.post-10011467466409001542012-10-05T15:13:00.000-07:002012-10-05T15:13:27.589-07:00HALLOWEEN!I love Halloween! The veil is thin, the dead are knocking on our doors, tricking or treating, having a good time. The best thing to do, is dress like them, blend in, to be sure everyone has fun!<br />
<br />
I'm posting a song a day from October 2 to November 2 of some of my favorite holiday songs on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/ladymonster">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://www.twitter.com/lady_monster">Twitter</a>. <br />
<br />
Last year, I created my <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ux5_0mS1aq4&list=UUCNmxser-fHFtaAQz434Pfw&index=5&feature=plcp">Burn The S'more</a> burlesque routine for the holiday. This year, I created my <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baphomet">Baphomet</a> routine. I am proud to get to perform these routines at the big show in town, <a href="http://www.traumacolumbus.com/">TRAUMA</a> at <a href="http://liveatthebluestone.com/">The Bluestone</a>. Be prepared to be scared and Shout At The Devil! So much fun.<br />
<br />
On a more serious note, I was asked by burlesque legend <a href="http://www.satansangel.com">Satan's Angel</a> to run a fundraising campaign for burlesque and comedy legend, <a href="http://www.bigfannieannie.com">Big Fannie Annie</a>. I set up an <a href="http://www.indiegogo.com/fannieannie">page on Indiegogo</a>, hoping to raise $10,000 for the down payment on her surgery. After being known around the world all of her life as "The World's Largest Show Girl", she is being told that gastric bypass surgery is her only choice. This controversial surgery needs to be done to lower her need for insulin, and to help her organs function properly again. The money we are raising is only a down payment on the surgery and doesn't go towards aftercare and other medical costs. She is currently bedridden, without health insurance and isn't old enough for medicare. Please donate what you can, leave a comment of love and goodwill or just <a href="http://www.indiegogo.com/fannieannie">share the link</a>. She needs our help, otherwise she will die, needlessly. Big Fannie Annie paved the way for many a plus-sized performer, showing the world that fat people are funny AND sexy. <br />
<br />
I have a lot of different shows I'm performing at this month. I hope you can join me, and more to be announced, so please keep checking in to this page to see what else pops up! Thanks so much for your love and support. <br />
<br />
<b><br />
Friday, October 12th</b><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/159148960892507/">Creme de la Femme</a><br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/circuscolumbus">Circus</a>, 1227 N High St @ 5th Ave., Columbus, OH 43201<br />
Performing burlesque to a LIVE band, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/Changeitupcharlie">Change It Up Charlie</a><br />
Doors: 9:30pm<br />
Cost: $6.00<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Sunday, October 14th</b><br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/events/103222219828393/">The Miss Burlesque World Pageant 2012</a><br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/aspens.escape">Aspen's Escape Club</a>, 2210 E Dublin Granville Rd, Columbus, OH 43229<br />
Doors: 7:00pm (for the pageant, see the schedule for events happening all day)<br />
Cost: tba<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Friday, October 19-21st</b><br />
<a href="http://idke.org/">IDKE (International Drag King Contest Extravaganza) Conference XIV</a><br />
<a href="http://www.clevelandagora.com">Cleveland Agora</a>, 5000 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44103<br />
All Events Package: $40<br />
I will be teaching my workshop, <i>Positively Lovely</i> at this important conference. Date and Time to be announced. <br />
<br />
<br />
Thursday and Friday, October 25 & 26th<br />
<a href="http://www.traumacolumbus.com/">TRAUMA</a><br />
<a href="http://liveatthebluestone.com/">The Bluestone</a>, 583 East Broad Street (btw Washington & Rt 71), Columbus, OH 43215<br />
<br />
<br />
I am available on Saturday, October 27th through to November 1st. I would love to receive more Halloween gigs. I have offers to attend parties in Athens, Louisville and beyond, but would LOVE to make people happy (and a little scared) with my burlesque routines, lighting my tassels on fire. xo<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Lady Monsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376603117327936142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4513419588163764034.post-47618820712242308032012-09-02T10:37:00.000-07:002012-09-04T10:48:32.439-07:00RevengeI was recently asked to write a poem about Revenge. However, it's no longer a word in my vocabulary. I don't subscribe to vengeance. I would rather put love into the world and let what comes to me, fuel me. Making an exercise of anger, judgment, rage is empty and negative. Sure, we all have our momentary fantasies or times of venting, but I don't waste any time or emotion actually plotting, let alone enacting revenge. If someone wishes me ill or speaks ill of me, I send love back to them. I seek out community, not competition. I work together with others, not against them. <br />
"I forgive you. I am sorry. I love you. I thank you." is <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ho%CA%BBoponopono">the Hoʻoponopono prayer </a>of forgiveness and reconciliation. It changes the energy around someone or a situation, repeating it each time they come to mind. For those that are unable to perpetuate an atmosphere of love, I say this prayer, and hold out my hand. There is another way. <br />
<br />
<br />
Revenge is not in my heart<br />
I move on, move forward, with the truth <br />
I leave behind your dark cloud<br />
The soot of burned bridges blinds you<br />
Surrounded in anger, jealousy and fear<br />
Fueling you like gasoline<br />
Veiling what can be<br />
Walking away<br />
Feeling the heat of the fire behind me<br />
It doesn't touch me<br />
You are the only one getting burned<br />
I wish you peace, love and that you find happiness<br />
Pleasure me with your pulse in my hands<br />
Holding it, leaving vengeance behind<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>September Performances and Appearances</b><br />
<br />
Saturday September 1st<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/events/338806152867650/"><b>Viking Metal Fest</b></a><br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/theshrunkenhead">The Shrunken Head</a>, 251 West Fifth Avenue @ Neil Ave, Columbus<br />
- Thanks so much to The Shrunken Head, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Miss-Theresa/194768310600721">Miss Theresa</a>, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/Winterhymn">Winterhymn</a>, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheConquering">The Conquering </a>and <a href="http://www.facebook.com/kingsbloodmetal">Kingsblood</a> for a great show and super fun time!<br />
<br />
<br />
Tuesday September 4th<br />
<b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/events/338538176239560/">Jello Biafra and the Guantanamo School of Medicine</a></b><br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/theshrunkenhead">The Shrunken Head</a>, 251 West Fifth Avenue @ Neil Ave, Columbus<br />
Doors: 8:30pm<br />
$7.00<br />
18+<br />
- Very happy to be able to help bring Jello into Columbus for this very special show.<br />
<br />
<br />
Friday September 14th<br />
<b>Creme de la Femme</b><br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/circuscolumbus">Circus</a>, 1227 North High St, Columbus<br />
Doors: 9:30pm<br />
$6.00<br />
Burlesque, Bands and Comedy presented by <a href="http://www.facebook.com/StuntmanMike">Platinum Mike Folker</a><br />
<br />
<br />
Sunday September 16th<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/events/114090988738567/"><b>Blowfly</b></a><br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/Doublehappohio">Double Happiness</a>, 482 South Front St, Columbus<br />
Go-Go Dancing with <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Miss-Theresa/194768310600721">Miss Theresa</a> and <a href="http://www.facebook.com/kristakittyrules">Krista Kitty</a> for the Original Dirty Rapper! I've had the pleasure of opening for Blowfly and dancing for him before. Looking forward to reconnecting with him! Thanks to <a href="http://www.facebook.com/paul.bearer.7">Paul Bearer</a> of Rasputin Productions and <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Blowfly/6072703989">BlowFly</a> for the invitation and opportunity!<br />
<br />
<br />
Thursday, September 27th<br />
<b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/cherieblondell">Cherie Blondell</a> presents The ROCK Show</b><br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Garage-Bar/119963194683211">The Garage</a>, 147 Vine Street, Columbus<br />
Burlesque with <a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheOohLaLas">The Ooh La Las</a> featuring the music of Motley Crue and Guns-N-Roses.<br />
- I will be debuting my Baphomet routine<br />
<br />
Lady Monsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376603117327936142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4513419588163764034.post-12637625610374188012012-08-07T00:41:00.001-07:002012-08-09T19:55:18.746-07:00SchoolI am going back to school. I have a few classes to take in order to get my Bachelor's degree, so I'm just gonna do it.<br>
<br>
In addition to learning, I am teaching. My string of workshops has begun at <a href="http://cfwohio.org/">The Center For Wholeness</a> in Clintonville. Every Saturday from 2:00 - 3:00pm. I love this little yoga studio and the ladies that run it. <br>
<br>
And, of course, there's no shortage of shows happening either.<br>
Please come out and support the arts! I am getting to work with some really good people - and throughout 3 states! I'll be in Baltimore (a first for me) for the Femme Conference and in Louisville, Kentucky! <br><br>There's always room for more too! Please <a href="mailto:stephanie@ladymonster.com">contact me</a> to perform or teach in your town.<br>
<br>
<br>
<b>
August performances and classes</b><br>
<br>
Friday, August 10th:<br>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/470236149663055/"><b>Creme de la Femme</b></a><br>
Circus. 1227 North High Street @5th Avenue. Columbus, OH 43201<br>
Doors: 9:30pm<br>
Cost: $5.00<br>
<br>
<br>
Saturday, August 11th:<br>
Lessons With Lady Monster<br>
<b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/182973318502352/">Presenting: YOU!</a></b><br>
A workshop for confidence building, stage presence, and engaging attention.<br>
2:00 - 3:00pm<br>
Center for Wholeness. 3408 Indianola Avenue (@Oakland Park). Columbus, OH 43202<br>
$15.00<br>
Advance ticket sales: <a href="http://ladymonster.eventbrite.com">http://ladymonster.eventbrite.com</a> <br>
<br>
<br>
Saturday, August 18th<br>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/375615632484152/">FEMME CONFERENCE</a><br>
10:30am: Workshop: <b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/105535786258715/">Positively Lovely</a></b> at Inn At Colonade<br>
7:00pm: Burlesque Performance at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/341780435908302/"><b>FemmeWERQ</b></a><br>
Ottobar. 2549 North Howard Street Baltimore, MD 21218<br>
Doors: 7pm. Show: 8pm SHARP <br>
Cost: Free for Femme Conference Registrants, $15 otherwise.<br>
<br>
<br>
Saturday, August 25th<br>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/411120915597490/">Lessons With Lady Monster</a><br>
<b>Advance Crafting Techniques</b>, taught with <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Miss-Theresa/194768310600721">Miss Theresa</a><br>
A workshop to demonstrate how to work with beads, sequins, rhinestones, fringe, elastic, leather and more. No craft making will take place. This is a skillshare. <br>
2:00 - 3:00pm<br>
Center for Wholeness. 3408 Indianola Avenue (@Oakland Park). Columbus, OH 43202<br>
$15.00<br>
Advance ticket sales: <a href="http://ladymonster.eventbrite.com">http://ladymonster.eventbrite.com</a> <br>
<br>
<br>
Sunday, August 26th<br>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/104678863009221/"><b>We Three Fire Queens</b></a><br>
Myself, Sweet LillyBee (Minneapolis) and HOT DAMN are the three fire queens, performing together for the first time, all performing our unique fire burlesque acts.<br>
Mag's Bar. 1398 S 2nd St. Louisville, KY 40208<br>
Doors: 9:00pm<br>
Cost: $5.00<br>
<br>Lady Monsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376603117327936142noreply@blogger.com0Columbus, OH, USA39.9611755 -82.998794239.766445000000004 -83.3146512 40.155906 -82.682937200000012tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4513419588163764034.post-26176249093061274672012-07-03T13:41:00.000-07:002012-08-15T02:00:04.617-07:00Lessons With Lady MonsterPRESS RELEASE<br />
<i>FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE</i><br />
July 3, 2012 <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m8sgtp2R4d1rs8eapo1_500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJDYQHjt2RjpwEqaOGjRv_cctKMxsOIYr3Kcnm-eZ0ZehbSvx_jIJ6K0cCQ8puO_9y1oElkGrP7g7qb73RG9xejTykH-ZRCjLHTKiMwq2L_6w3acUb7BbaFGvfVoi_7cTPdE6jK20NpQE/s200/Flyer2012v2.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<b>LESSONS WITH LADY MONSTER</b><br />
<br />
Lady Monster marks her triumphant return to Columbus, teaching workshops and advanced performance classes.<br />
<br />
<br />
Every Saturday from 2:00 – 3:00pm<br />
at <a href="http://www.cfwohio.org/">Center for Wholeness</a> in Clintonville<br />
<br />
<br />
Unearthed from the basement of Acme Art Gallery in 1992, Lady Monster has become a Tour de Force artiste.<br />
<br />
Voted one of the Top 100 Burlesque Artists in the world by her peers, she performs in a variety of capacities.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.ladymonster.com/Home.aspx">A Queen of the Fire Tassels</a>, <a href="http://www.ladymonster.com/burlesque.aspx">Burlesque</a>, <a href="http://www.myspace.com/lady_monster/music/songs/electric-26547542">Poetry</a>, Performance Artist, <a href="http://www.ladymonster.com/CD.aspx">Recording Artist</a>, <a href="http://www.ladymonster.com/Actress.aspx">Actress</a>, <a href="http://www.ladymonster.com/model.aspx">Model</a>, DJ, <a href="http://www.ladymonster.com/productions.aspx">Producer</a>, <a href="http://www.ladymonster.com/workshops.aspx">Teacher</a>, and Philanthropist<br />
<br />
<br />
Lady Monster left Columbus, Ohio eleven years ago, wanting to expand on her talents in San Francisco. She was able to do that, and so much more – and ready to once again taking the city by storm.<br />
<br />
She read her erotica and sexual stories with a variety of spoken word artists throughout the 90s, including co-founding Circus of Cool with Don “The Pope” Pavelcik and passing the torch to <a href="http://www.theotherpaper.com/article_87c36e94-82f8-5ff2-90be-75343ced2deb.html">Krista Williams</a>. <br />
<br />
Once in San Francisco she began a long-term relationship with the Dead Kennedys singer and Green Party presidential candidate, <a href="http://www.alternativetentacles.com">Jello Biafra</a>. They worked together on his last four spoken word albums. <br />
<br />
In 2005, she joined the first national touring plus-size burlesque troupe, <i>Fat-Bottom Revue</i> led by the former, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heather_MacAllister_%28performer%29">Heather MacAllister</a>. Once part of this troupe, she opened for national acts like <a href="http://www.candyekane.com">Candye Kane</a> and was photographed by Star Trek icon, <a href="http://www.rmichelson.com/Artist_Pages/Nimoy/pages/Leonard-Nimoy-Gallery.html">Leonard Nimoy</a> for his book, <i>The Full Body Project</i>. <a href="http://www.rmichelson.com/Artist_Pages/Nimoy/pages/MaxBeaut.htm">These images</a> have been featured in galleries around the world, on The Colbert Report, The View, in the New York Times, TIME magazine and beyond. <br />
<br />
Upon the book's release (2007), Lady Monster became the spokesmodel and was interviewed with Leonard Nimoy on a number of occasions, including being invited to speak and perform at the release event, <a href="http://www.rmichelson.com/artist_pages/nimoy/pages/Symposium.html">Full Body Symposium</a>. <br />
<br />
Lady Monster also appears on the <a href="http://www.revoltingcox.com">Revolting Cocks</a>' album “<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cocked_and_Loaded">Cocked and Loaded</a>” with the song she wrote and performs the lyrics, “<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7jrslzR_QH8">Revolting Cock Au Lait</a>”. Appearing on their 2006 tour at various House of Blues venues, she danced live with the band nightly. <br />
<br />
Lady Monster's burlesque career has had a number of successes, including performing in <a href="http://www.margaretcho.com/tag/sensuous-woman">Margaret Cho's The Sensuous Woman</a> shows in Los Angeles and San Francisco. <a href="http://www.satansangel.com">Satan's Angel</a>, a legendary burlesque performer, created FIRE TASSELS in San Francisco in the mid-1960s. In 2008 she began to teach this art form to a select number of performers around the world. That year, Angel chose Lady Monster as her protege. Lighting her tassels on a regular basis across the country, into Canada and overseas in Europe, Lady Monster has found her talent. She is the only person in the Western Hemisphere to be able to teach this art , besides Satan's Angel herself. <a href="http://www.bettieblackheart.com/">Bettie Blackheart</a> (Helsinki, Finland) is the only other person with this ability. There are currently only <a href="http://www.satansangel.com/Fire_Tassel_Queens.html">12 women worldwide</a> with this gift. <br />
<br />
Lady Monster has appeared in the following films: <i><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MNM7qdblYu4">Phone Sex</a></i>, <i><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4BEHMY-AatI">Watch Out</a></i>, <i><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bRHpUxYwSs0">Stuck</a></i>, <i><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o8Jn_bbMKIY">The Craving</a></i>, <i><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qrCwRud-s7k">Satan's Angel: The Movie</a></i>, April Flores' <a href="http://www.carlosbatts.com/ar/film.htm"><i>Dangerous Curves</i></a>, etc. She has also made her mark in multiple <a href="http://www.loveartlab.org">Love Art Lab</a> weddings created by Annie Sprinkle and Beth Stephens, in publications, on recordings and a variety of online entertainment.<br />
<br />
Lady Monster has amassed a wealth of information about performing and how to achieve results on stage. Hoping to provide some inspiration and tutelage, she will be teaching classes on a regular basis. These lessons are open to anyone – all ages, sizes, genders and bodies – whether you are a performer or not.<br />
<br />
Taking place at:<br />
<a href="http://www.cfwohio.org/"><b>The Center for Wholeness</b></a><br />
3408 Indianola Avenue @ Oakland Park.<br />
Located on the #4 bus line<br />
Near the 71 and 315 exits for N. East Broadway<br />
Next door to the <a href="http://www.wildflowercafe.biz">Wildflower Cafe</a><br />
Wheelchair/Disabled Accessible<br />
<br />
Regular Time: 2:00 – 3:00pm for each class.<br />
Each class costs: $10.00/person<br />
All Four Classes: $35.00/person<br />
Advance tickets: <a href="http://ladymonster.eventbrite.com">http://ladymonster.eventbrite.com</a><br />
<br />
<i>Every First Saturday, beginning August 4th:</i><br />
<b>POSITIVELY LOVELY</b><br />
This is a body image workshop. Lady Monster has worked with size-positive/body activists such as Leonard Nimoy, Candye Kane, <a href="http://fatso.com/">Marilyn Wann</a> (<i>Fat!SO?</i>) and <a href="http://www.anniesprinkle.org">Annie Sprinkle, PhD</a> to create this workshop. It is a visualization to learn to infuse love to every inch of your body. Lady Monster has taught this class at a variety of burlesque festivals and events across the country and in Canada. This is a seated class, please come as you are. <br />
<br />
<i>Every Second Saturday:</i><br />
<b>Tassels HO!</b><br />
This class teaches anyone how to twirl tassels, and how to make a good tassel and pastie. It also teaches the importance of good construction and technique to save breast tissue. Please wear comfortable clothing. We will be up and moving during the class. Pasties with Tassels will be available for purchase at the class. <br />
<br />
<br />
<i>Every Third Saturday, beginning September 15th:</i><br />
<b>STRIP FOR YOUR LOVER</b><br />
Beginning techniques on the art of the striptease. Learn about being sensuous, playful, engaging and most of all - THE TEASE. Please wear comfortable clothing. We will be up and moving during the class. <br />
<br />
<br />
<i>Every Fourth Saturday, beginning August 25th:</i><br />
<b>ADVANCED CRAFTING TECHNIQUES</b><br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Miss-Theresa/">Miss Theresa</a> co-teaches this class with Lady Monster. Together, they bring a wealth of information on how to work with rhinestones, beads, sequins, fringe, elastic, leather and more. There will not be any actual craft work completed during the class. This is a skill share workshop, to learn more about your materials. This is a seated class, please come as you are. <br />
<br />
<br />
For more information about <b>Lady Monster</b> and <b>The Lessons With Lady Monster</b>, please: <br />
<br />
<b>CONTACT</b><br />
Lady Monster at <a href="mailto:stephanie@ladymonster.com">Stephanie@LadyMonster.com</a> <br />
415-216-6038<br />
<br />
# # # <br />
Lady Monsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376603117327936142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4513419588163764034.post-82876576298912373732012-05-24T19:52:00.002-07:002012-06-08T18:23:53.088-07:00SUMMER!AHHHHHHH!<br>
It's SUMMER - another season - and I am enjoying feeling the heat and humidity of warmer weather. <i>(Ask me again in August though. haha)</i><br>
<br>
Things are settling down. I am beginning to invest money into costumes and props again, working on routines and continuing to travel about the Midwest for shows. Hopefully soon I can begin applying to perform at festivals again, as I get more on my feet. <br>
<br>
Here is my current <b>Calendar of Events</b>. <br>
I'll be adding more information (and hopefully more dates as they are confirmed) in the coming weeks. <br>
I am ready to hit the road and do a lot more shows (hint hint). <br>
I have renewed my fire insurance and become a member of <a href="http://www.nafaa.org/">North American Fire Arts Association (NAFAA)</a>.<br>
<br>
<b>May 26</b> - Burlesqueoke! at <a href="http://www.theshrunkenhead.net">The Shrunken Head </a>. Lots of audience participation is required for this show. Come up and sing your song while the burlesquers perform an improv striptease. Or, watch the performers dance and sing. Or, well, who knows. It's a party and a lot of fun.<br>
Show: 9:30pm. Admission: $5.00<br>
<br>
<b>June 2</b> - Private Party <br>
<br>
<b>June 16</b> - <a href="http://www.stonewallcolumbus.org/ ">PRIDE!</a><br>
<br>
<b>June 21</b> - <a href="http://www.fiercequeerburlesque.com">FIERCE</a> TOUR Pre-COMFEST Party @ <a href="http://www.brothersdrake.com">Brothers Drake Meadery </a>– FREE SHOW! <br>
<br>
<b>June 22-24</b> - <a href="http://www.comfest.com">COMFEST!</a> <br>
<br>
<b>June 30</b> - Burlesqueoke! at <a href="http://www.theshrunkenhead.net">The Shrunken Head </a><br>
<br>
<b>July 20 </b>- TWO SHOWS<br>
Rock-N-Roll Burlesque with <a href="http://www.cherieblondell.com/">The Ooh La Las</a> at The Garage<br>
Red Light Lounge at <a href="http://www.wallstreetnightclub.com">Wall Street Night Club</a><br>
<br>
<b>July 28</b> - Burlesqueoke! at <a href="http://www.theshrunkenhead.net">The Shrunken Head </a><br>
<br>
<b>August 17-19</b> - <a href="http://www.femme2012.com">Femme Conference</a><br>
I AM PERFORMING BURLESQUE and PRESENTING MY WORKSHOP: <a href="http://www.ladymonster.com/workshops.aspx">POSITIVELY LOVELY</a> at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/375615632484152/">FEMME2012: PULLING THE PIECES TOGETHER</a><br><br>
<b>MORE TBA!
</b>Lady Monsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376603117327936142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4513419588163764034.post-38192485263825139362012-04-17T11:56:00.005-07:002012-04-17T12:22:20.577-07:00Take Five<span style="font-weight:bold;">Take Five</span><br /><br />It’s half-way through April and I’m just now starting to breathe. The roller coaster started at the end of March and finally, I’m <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nzpnWuk3RjU">taking five</a>. <br /><br />I teetered between homes and whether or not to have a nervous breakdown. I dropped out of the band so that I could focus on finding a place to live. I had to cancel three performances (the first time I’ve ever had to cancel). It took everything in me to not cry at work.<br /><br />I cried on the shoulders of those that I loved, and some turned me away, not wanting the burden as things avalanched. My family provided monumental support. I don’t know what I would have done without them. <br /><br />Last week I finally found my own apartment. No roommates and plenty of room for my things. I can afford it with my job and the job is looking more secure every day. I’m beginning to unpack and to find furniture and regular household items, the things that I gave away or threw into the trash (and recycling) in San Francisco. I tried to make eggs Saturday morning to discover I have no spatula. I cooked up a chicken breast to discover I have no knives (except a butcher and paring knife). Little things that add up. I tried to hang curtains to realize I had no chair to stand on. Thankfully I have a lot of boxes of books.<br /><br />If you're doing some spring cleaning or having a garage/yard sale, please let me know. I bet I could use it.<br /><br />My head is up. I am not looking back. I am not focusing on blaming or making excuses. I want to use my experiences to forge ahead. <br /><br />Including, I’ve focused on creating a new costume for my HEADLINING performance in Chicago with <a href="https://www.facebook.com/vivalamuerteburlesque">Viva La Muerte</a> and her Hot & Heavy show on Friday, April 20th. Also, for a routine I’ll be performing at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/viva.valezz">Viva Valezz</a>’ annual breast cancer fundraiser, HOT PINK at Wall Street on May 12th. <br /><br />TWO NEW ROUTINES and COSTUMES that I’m making by hand. Thanks so much to my partner in handstitching and hatching new plans, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Miss-Theresa/194768310600721">Miss Theresa</a> for all of your excellent work and ideas!<br /><br />I am also very excited to announce I will be performing with the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BurlesqueAPades">BURLESQUE-A-PADES</a> on their stop in Columbus. I’ll be making S’MORES with a LIVE BAND! This will be a very rare treat, so please don’t miss out! <br /><br />Here are more details about where I will be performing:<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Friday, April 20th:</span> Hot & Heavy Presents: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/256755811066192/">Terminal Tease – A Burlesque Tribute to Industrial Music</a><br />Stage 773, 1225 West Belmont, Chicago, IL<br />Purchase Tickets In Advance Here: <a href="http://www.stage773.com/Show?id=60">http://www.stage773.com/Show?id=60</a><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Sunday, May 6th:</span> Burlesque-A-Pades with the World Famous Pontani Sisters and the Brian Newman Quintet<br /><a href="https://www.facebook.com/skullysmusicdiner">Skully’s Music and Diner</a>, 1151 North High Street, Columbus, OH<br /><a href="http://www.ticketmaster.com/event/0500485C8B33AD10?artistid=1546787&majorcatid=10001&minorcatid=60">Click Here For Tickets</a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Saturday, May 12th:</span> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/268824426540492/">HOT PINK</a> – Velvet Hearts’ Annual Breast Cancer Fundraiser<br />Wall Street Night Club, Columbus, OH<br /><a href="https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=VLKXZEEAE94FW">TICKETS ARE NOW ON SALE!</a> Tables are limited. Get yours before they're gone. Show featuring Crystal Swarovski from DC, The Royal Renegades, Crimson Kitty from NYC, Cherry La Voix, Geegee Louise from Boston, Cory Strips, Lady Monster, the Velvet Hearts! What an amazing lineup!!! <br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Wednesday, May 23rd:</span> <a href="http://www.fiercequeerburlesque.com ">FIERCE – The First Queer Burlesque Festival – TOUR</a> featuring Viva Valezz, The Velvet Hearts, The Incredible, Edible... Akynos, Crystal Swarovski, Twinkletoes McGee, Pandora Foxx, Crimson Kitty, Geegee Louise and more! <br />Wiley’s Comedy Nightclub. Dayton, OH<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Saturday, May 26th:</span> Burlesqueoke – It’s a burlesque show! It’s Karaoke! It’s a wild time.<br /><a href="https://www.facebook.com/theshrunkenhead">The Shrunken Head</a>, Columbus, OHLady Monsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376603117327936142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4513419588163764034.post-51018131424931633432012-03-10T12:43:00.007-08:002012-03-10T14:45:45.380-08:00HappyThat's not a word that stayed in my vocabulary or outlook for long when I lived in SF.<br />I struggled a lot there - financially, with friendships, with being a performer. I had many happy moments, but just before I moved I was pretty miserable. I knew moving from SF was inevitable because of not having enough income to get by. It was not something I wanted to do because I fell deeply in love with the city and did not want that relationship to end. But, when it's time to move on, you pick yourself up and get out of that situation and hope that the next one is better.<br /><br />I moved on, back to Ohio, back to my hometown of Columbus, on Christmas Day.<br /><br />And, it is immensely better for me: <br />Financially - I GOT A JOB!, my rent is AWESOME!<br />Friends and Family are supportive and so loving.<br />Performances - I am booked to perform about once a week, coming up - and not just in Columbus. <br /> <br />The past several weeks have been a time of transition. Trying to get it through my head that I cannot: <br />a) take the bus to the beach<br />b) walk over to the next block for a $20 mani/pedi with parrafin wax treatment<br />c) find a produce store with cheap and plentiful fruits and vegetables within just a slight stretch from my apartment, or <br />d) seeing so much sexy goodness in so many forms available every night of the week. <br /><br />At least, I am now learning different ways and means that sexiness exists in Columbus. It's no Baghdad By The Bay, but there is a lot of beauty and art. <br />When I talk with others, I can honestly say, "I am happy". Things are good here. <br /><br />I have a lot of ideas on ways to add to my happiness and am working on a few of them now. Receiving so much support from friends, family and fellow performers is a welcome change too. Walking into a room and having people say, "I am so glad you moved back into town. Getting to see you on a regular basis has made me so happy.", makes not having an ocean at the ready alright. <br /><br />Here are some of the things that are happening for me right now:<br /><br />I was the first featured guest on The Sound of Plaid at their new Columbus studio.<br /><a href="http://evolution-control.com/index.php/news/concert-and-performance-dates/10103-this-weeks-special-guest-lady-monster">You can listen to the archived podcast here.</a><br />Thanks so much to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TradeMarkG">TradeMark</a> and <a href="http://evolution-control.com/index.php/bio/members">Frillypants</a> for inviting me. I curated the crazy track list, so enjoy the sounds of SPRING!<br /><br />I am a back-up singer for the new band, <a href="http://www.reverbnation.com/dirtybiscuit#">Dirty Biscuits</a>. Headed by Beth Hunter (Slick Scoundrels) on lead vocals and Craig Dunson (Thomas Jefferson Slave Apartments, Thee Invaders, Righteous Buck and the Skull Scorchers, etc) on guitar. Other members are Brian (Slick Scoundrels) on drums and Sam on bass. Staci is also joining us on back-ups. There will also be go-go dancing with the vocals! Blues/Garage/60's - you know, like <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Thee-Headcoatees/109764295717261?sk=info">Thee Headcoatees</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Holly-Golightly/108655345825522?sk=info">Holly Golightly</a>, and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Sonics/19898321650">The Sonics</a>.<br /><br />I am also posting my performances on my fan page: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/theeladymonster"><span style="font-weight:bold;">facebook.com/theeladymonster</span></a> . Please "LIKE" me. <br /><br /><br />Hope to see you at one or more of the following upcoming shows.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">March 22nd (Tentative)</span>: <a href="http://oneeyeddayton.com">One-Eyed Jacks</a>, Fairborn, OH (Thanks to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/viva.valezz">Viva Valezz</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">March 24th</span>: OhEmmyGee Productions Presents: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/186671728101150/">Va Va Voom In The Cambridge Room</a>! at <a href="http://www.houseofblues.com/venues/clubvenues/cleveland/">The House of Blues</a>, Cleveland, OH. <a href="http://bit.ly/zQ5LBx">Tickets are on sale</a>! (Thanks to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/oh.emmy.gee">Emily Gerson</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">March 30th</span>: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/124564787665346/">The Booooooob Train: A Funky Tribute to Don Cornelius</a> at <a href="http://www.kobolive.com/">KOBO Live</a>, Columbus, OH (Thanks to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/viva.valezz">Viva Valezz</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">April 1st</span>: Broadway Brunch on the Upper Level. <a href="http://www.levelcolumbus.com">Level Dining Lounge</a>, Columbus, OH (Thanks to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/viva.valezz">Viva Valezz</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">April 7th</span>: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/309055099149959/?ref=ts">BURazzle-dazzLESQUE</a> at <a href="http://www.theshrunkenhead.net/">The Shrunken Head</a>, Columbus, OH <br />*<span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="font-weight:bold;">I WILL BE ROASTING EASTER PEEPS WITH MY FIRE TASSELS!</span></span>*<br />(Thanks to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/cherieblondell">Cherie Blondell</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">April 14th (Tentative)</span>: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/232106970209433/">Dangerous Liaisons</a> at <a href="http://wallstreetnightclub.com/">Wall Street Night Club</a>, Columbus, OH (Thanks to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/viva.valezz">Viva Valezz</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">April 20th</span>: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/256755811066192/">Termination Tease: A Burlesque Tribute To Industrial Music</a> at <a href="http://www.stage773.com/">Stage 773</a> in Chicago, IL (Thanks to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/vivalamuerteburlesque">Viva La Muerte</a>)Lady Monsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376603117327936142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4513419588163764034.post-63799870241520618972011-12-28T10:25:00.000-08:002012-01-04T12:49:08.253-08:00ColumbusOn December 25th I spent my Christmas moving from San Francisco to Columbus, Ohio. I was born and raised in Central Ohio, living in the OSU district from age 19 to 32. Then I moved to San Francisco. I lived in SF for over ten years. I moved on August 30, 2001 to begin a more serious relationship with <a href="http://www.alternativetentacles.com">Jello Biafra </a>and to join <a href="http://sfsi.org/">SFSI</a> (San Francisco Sex Information).<br /><br />While in Columbus I volunteered for a few years on the hotline, outreach and newsletter for their former sister organization Columbus, Ohio Sex Information. What was supposed to be temporary housing at Biafra's, I ended up living there for nearly 4 years. I moved out and into my studio in the TL and remained there until the 25th. Living at that apartment is the longest period of time I have ever lived in one place. <br /><br />Moving out has been one of the most traumatic, heart-wrenching, exhausting and brutal experiences for me psychologically. I am so grateful for my friends: Nicole, Marlon, Melinda, Malakkar, the burlesque legend Isis Starr and my she-ro Annie Sprinkle for being there and helping me SO MUCH. I couldn't have done it without your love, strength and goodwill. Thankful too that my father has been an extraordinary source of assistance. He and my family are very glad to have me home. <br /><br />Why did I move? I have been looking for permanent work for 2½ years. I've had temporary assignments, independent contractor positions and worked very briefly for a very eccentric and verbally abusive elderly multi-millionaire. Then, my unemployment benefits were cut down to $200/week and I didn't feel like I could manage a living in SF on such a low income. Not only was this lack of income and work difficult financially, it took a toll on me emotionally. I moved to give myself a break and do some much needed healing and preservation. I have a meeting with an Executive at <a href="http://limitedbrands.com">Limited Brands </a>in January for a possible job. Right now, I don't care what job I get, as long as I can afford where I am (my rent is A THIRD of what it was in SF).<br /><br />My life in SF was magical and not only did I make my dreams come true, I exceeded them far beyond anything I could have imagined in Ohio. I am bringing that magic back with me, and continuing it with the scene here. It a progressive and very queer town. There is a lot of art, music and burlesque happening and I'm excited for what the future holds. I am within a day's drive of NYC, Chicago, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Michigan, Tennessee and more. I feel like I have a lot of room for growth with all that surrounds me. <br /><br />Part of my vast network of support includes my friends and fellow performers. I have moved in with my old roommate in Clintonville with my cat Annie and am looking very forward to being part of the scene here. I already have several performances lined up for the next month. I look forward to reconnecting with old friends and acquaintances and creating new art with them. <br /><br />Please send me <a href="mailto:stephanie@ladymonster.com">an email </a>if you need my new mailing address. <br /><br />In the meantime, the chapter for <a href="http://www.NakedGirlsReading.com/SanFrancisco">Naked Girls Reading: San Francisco</a> is closed. It is up to Michelle L'Amour when/if a new chapter is opened with a new director and cast. <br /><br /><strong>Wednesday, December 28th: </strong><br /><a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/263609570367700/">Circus of Cool</a>. Celebrate Krista Kitty's birthday at Dick's Den with live jazz, poetry, burlesque and MORE! <br /><br /><br /><strong>Saturday, New Years' Eve:</strong><br />Viva Valezz and the Velvet Hearts present: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ladymonster?ref=tn_tnmn#!/photo.php?fbid=10150458348296888&set=a.128268306887.103754.30633096887&type=1">Red Light Girlie Lounge</a><br />Wall Street Night Club, 144 N. Wall Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215<br />In the club's 2nd level loft. 2 shows. 11:30pm and 12:30am.<br /><br /><br /><strong>Friday, January 13th and Sunday, January 15th: </strong><br /><a href="http://www.sexapalooza.ca/shows/columbus_2012">SEXAPALOOZA</a>. <br /><a href="http://www.sexapalooza.ca/shows/columbus_2012/directions">Franklin County Veterans' Memorial</a><br /><br /><strong>Saturdays, January 14th and 28th: </strong><br />Rock-N-Roll Reunion<br /><a href="http;//www.facebook.com/aceofcupsbar">Ace of Cups</a>. 2619 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43201Lady Monsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376603117327936142noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4513419588163764034.post-7091686931706824672011-12-12T13:34:00.000-08:002011-12-12T13:43:13.437-08:00MovingI am moving to Columbus, Ohio.<br />I can no longer support a lifestyle in San Francisco.<br />Currently I'm unclear about the date of departure, but I have a plane ticket for December 23rd and it's my goal to be able to have it all packed up by then.<br /><br />My rent was raised and my unemployment benefits cut in half. Without work, I cannot maintain a living here.<br /><br />My family is in Ohio and a vast network of support. I have an opportunity to move in with my old roommate and begin working with <a href="http://vivavalezz.com/">Viva Valezz</a>, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/people/Arturo-De-Leon/1037380744">Arturo DeLeon</a> and many others for collaborations and productions.<br /> <br />I have a few performances lined-up in December and I hope you can be there to say "Good-Bye".<br /><br /> - <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/166367346795249/"><span style="font-weight:bold;">Saturday, December 17th</span> at Center for Sex and Culture</a> for International Day To End Violence Towards Sex Workers. This has always been an important event to me. I have created a group performance that includes myself and up to 8 others. Please email me for more information if you would like to join me.<br /><br /> - <a href="http://www.loveartlab.org/cal.php?cal_id=158"><span style="font-weight:bold;">Sunday, December 18th</span> at the top of Bernal Hill</a>, at Sunrise. Annie Sprinkle and Beth Stephens are having a Wedding To The Sun as a finale to their Love Art Lab projects over the past seven years. Weather permitting, I will be twirling fire tassels and roasting marshmallows with my tassels as my offering to them and to the Sun. For more information about this event, please check out their invitation.<br /> <br /> <br />If anyone would like to assist me in minimizing my belongings for the big move, I would really appreciate any assistance. And, of course, you are welcome to help yourself to anything on the donate/sell pile. Here is <a href="http://sfbay.craigslist.org/sfc/gms/2747170558.html.">my ad on Craigslist with details for some of the bigger items</a>.<br /> <br />I am sad to leave this beautiful city. It has brought so much to me for the past ten years. I am also looking forward to re-connecting with old friends and all of the incredible burlesque, music and art that is happening there too.Lady Monsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376603117327936142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4513419588163764034.post-23905022862583320162011-11-06T22:18:00.000-08:002011-11-07T00:32:31.652-08:00AustinOctober was a heavy performance month for me, and included some things that weren't mentioned in my last blog.<br /><br />For one, I was hired by Bobcat Goldthwait to be the only performer for Robin Williams' bachelor party. They asked me to perform <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l74RRxK6kS8">my tribute to Peter Sellers</a> as they wanted funny. After my performance (in the backroom of a restaurant with a dozen comedians), Robin and Bobcat both approached me, thanked me and asked me to stay and have dinner with them, perhaps I could do a second number after dessert. I heard more jokes and great backstage stories than I could ever remember to repeat. And, I had the pleasure of sitting next to Mort Saul. It was a magical night and they were absolute angels to me. Best wishes to you Robin and your new nuptials. Thank you again Bobcat, I'll never forget getting to twirl my tassels for all of you.<br /><br />For another, my friend Mark Farmiloe, aka Loopus passed away suddenly. He was the singer for the Columbus, Ohio bands Pica Huss and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=417-VWotDMw">Econothugs</a>. It's taken our entire community by surprise and storm. A group on Facebook was created so people who knew him could share stories, photos and grieve. There are now nearly 800 members of the group, all sharing. Benefit shows for his wife have been planned and many bands are getting back together, raffle items are being donated. Our little family is being re-knit into a tight, lovely circle of misfits. We are all realizing how special and unique our community was, how much good art and music was being created. As part of my grieving process, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X7eBqKgR6j0">I created a video</a>. Pica Huss only had a cassette and a split-7 inch with Girly Machine. Thankfully someone <a href="http://minimumtillagefarming.blogspot.com/2010/06/pica-huss.html">uploaded all of the music from the cassette</a> and I was able to download it (I have the cassette, but there are bare spots from playing it so much). I have volunteered to share my many memories and stories of being part of the scene and being one of the writers of an upcoming book about it.<br /><br />Back to Austin.<br />I am traveling there for a number of reasons.<br />1. To celebrate my birthday. It falls on Thanksgiving Day this year. So, in lieu of trying to get people to celebrate my birthday on Turkey Day, I'm celebrating it early and on my own terms. <br /><br />2. To see the <a href="http://newbombturks.com/official/info.html"><span style="font-weight:bold;">New Bomb Turks</span></a> perform a <a href="http://do512.com/event/2011/11/12/new-bomb-turks-high-tension-wires-grand-champeen">reunion show</a>. With families and careers, it's harder and harder to get them together again, and it's usually in Ohio or NYC or Europe. So, I'm taking advantage of them venturing towards the West and getting to check out Austin for the first time too.<br /><br />3. To see my oldest friend, Chad. Chad and I went to high school together and bonded over our love of weird music. Chad introduced me to Pica Huss and the New Bomb Turks as new friends when he got a job at <a href="http://www.singingdogrecords.com/">Singing Dog Records</a> after high school. About the same time I moved to San Francisco, he moved to Tokyo. He moved back to the States after the earthquake and tsunami, and it will be my first time seeing him in many years. I'm really looking forward to us getting caught up.<br /><br />4. Another old friend that I met in Flagstaff, Ricardo Acevedo lives in Austin now. He just published a beautiful book of his photography, <a href="http://polymarketpress.net/books/interloper/"><span style="font-weight:bold;">Interloper</span></a>. He also has an art show at the New East Art Gallery as part of the East Austin Studio Tour 2011 (while I'm there!). <br />Here's a self-portrait with Ricardo's book: <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6UH0pIRorJ93wM3qWfzOAJrEHsO1mKFEU2qiZifJHm82QeFbZ-PDNJp3-rvkCUDzOhFbJY8WLml8rxAAs_zU3kZ14X6u-cQbzYZZfjYLqF6VPDO4o5_GfTdU3femjWqKR8mU4lx7PQYM/s1600/Interloper.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6UH0pIRorJ93wM3qWfzOAJrEHsO1mKFEU2qiZifJHm82QeFbZ-PDNJp3-rvkCUDzOhFbJY8WLml8rxAAs_zU3kZ14X6u-cQbzYZZfjYLqF6VPDO4o5_GfTdU3femjWqKR8mU4lx7PQYM/s200/Interloper.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672168292851161090" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />5. I GET TO TEACH WORKSHOPS at <a href="http://www.cocolectric.com">Coco Lectric</a>'s <a href="http://www.cocolectric.com/Site/Austin_Academy_of_Burlesque.html">Austin Academy of Burlesque</a>!!<br />I am so excited for this opportunity. I will be teaching two workshops on Sunday, November 13th from 3:00 - 6:00pm. <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Positively Lovely</span>. A body image workshop open to all sizes, ages and genders of people. Includes a visualization exercise and ends with telling your love story with your body. Inspired by Annie Sprinkle, Candye Kane and Marilyn Wann. Beginning at 3:00pm, the class lasts about an hour, depending on the number of participants. $10.00<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Science of Spinning</span>. Teaching <a href="http://www.satansangel.com">Satan's Angel</a>'s methods of making pasties with spinners and rolling your own fringe tassels. Also, learn the physics of a well-constructed pastie, the impact of a good tassel and how together they save breast tissue. Class includes all materials. You walk away with a set of pasties, two sets of tassels and a quick lesson how to twirl using isolations (no bouncing). Please bring a glue gun and if you have specific materials you want to use. Class begins at 4:00pm. $25.00<br /><br />Classes take place at: Galaxy Dance Studios. 1700 Lamar Blvd., Austin, TX 78704.<br /><br />To attend both workshops, the cost is only $30.00. Tickets available at the door or discounted online. <a href="http://ladymonster.eventbrite.com/">http://ladymonster.eventbrite.com/</a><br /><br />For more information, please go to:<br /><a href=" http://www.ladymonster.com/"><br />http://www.ladymonster.com/</a><br /><a href="http://www.cocolectric.com/Site/Austin_Academy_of_Burlesque.html">http://www.cocolectric.com/Site/Austin_Academy_of_Burlesque.html</a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK1php4dlZYOV29qxPu2dHCZrZWGHUbXvcxxacBFr0FaLo6bzwehTq9mp-P85Nd-PP0mdIBVhHyJe5upmVfl5BwV4Z39BNiUbiHRLg_6Wx-acp7RZOon3omtcKpcz4rVnwtEl-xOAL0aU/s1600/AustinWorkshops.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 134px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK1php4dlZYOV29qxPu2dHCZrZWGHUbXvcxxacBFr0FaLo6bzwehTq9mp-P85Nd-PP0mdIBVhHyJe5upmVfl5BwV4Z39BNiUbiHRLg_6Wx-acp7RZOon3omtcKpcz4rVnwtEl-xOAL0aU/s200/AustinWorkshops.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672166825634123602" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAw7lTt8lKdBLsPq1HAVSSc8H0yZQgzlFhFvJZhYfX7i5_Klm3pAzWe3lbtES_yi6jvfDB1SalgDHVjMbaZ6Hod2gFbNDoC5vKD241n4dNcCI5p0qfxjSwL7je3b-A9jy8TulgaxboBh4/s1600/Positively_Lovely.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 134px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAw7lTt8lKdBLsPq1HAVSSc8H0yZQgzlFhFvJZhYfX7i5_Klm3pAzWe3lbtES_yi6jvfDB1SalgDHVjMbaZ6Hod2gFbNDoC5vKD241n4dNcCI5p0qfxjSwL7je3b-A9jy8TulgaxboBh4/s200/Positively_Lovely.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672167011628795938" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8oRrPxlAMbJmPLfWUMc3oHmmCuQihHRO53VEfzuqSayfXBh-Ju63j1pljKLQytWKMYyLc89kSQVAWCj7m6LxDFdQToy1q_XaOlC5v8fYOPUtyunYHsdDefkywTrLjhvdp7gx1Y3PxM4A/s1600/ScienceOfSpinning.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 134px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8oRrPxlAMbJmPLfWUMc3oHmmCuQihHRO53VEfzuqSayfXBh-Ju63j1pljKLQytWKMYyLc89kSQVAWCj7m6LxDFdQToy1q_XaOlC5v8fYOPUtyunYHsdDefkywTrLjhvdp7gx1Y3PxM4A/s200/ScienceOfSpinning.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672167199211344354" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />As I take some time off from performing burlesque, I will be spending time writing, teaching, being with old friends and still trying to find a permanent job.Lady Monsterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376603117327936142noreply@blogger.com0