Starving Artists, Scissor Sisters, and SEAF

Wow this has been a crazy and full week!  It started with Starving Artists on Parade on Monday at The Noc Noc.  I had the opportunity to perform at this side show type cabaret, hosted by the delightful Twisted Trystan, a local side-show performer who happened to catch my act at another show a couple of months ago.  Trystan runs Starving Artists on the Third Monday Night of each month, bringing together vendors, burlesque performers, dancers, circus artists, and musicians to create a fun dive back into the weekend at the start of the week.

It was a pleasure to performer on the Noc Noc's stage once more, and fun to see the sort of crowd that comes out on a Monday night!  I was honored to share the stage with Trystan himself, as well as The Scandal from Bohemia, Mai Li Pittard, Betty Fish, Cubs McGee, and Ursula Major.  I wasn't able to stay till the end (ah, balancing a performing career with a day job!) but I understand things go pretty intense after I left.  I heard things about beds of nails, screw guns, and elaborately made up drag queens suspended by hooks from the ceiling!  Wow!  The show is a different each month but it seems like its solid entertainment and the Noc Noc always pours strong drinks, so I think folks to check it out next month!

On Tuesday night I had the awesome opportunity to attend The Scissor Sisters' concert at The Paramount.  I love this band and have been talking about wanting to see them for weeks when low and behold one of my buddies said that he had bought two extra tickets thinking there was someone in his circle who wanted to see them, and then remembered it was me!  Sweet!

For those of you who don't know lead singer, Jake Shears is a Seattle-native, and I hope he enjoyed his visit home.  Ana Matronic, a native of Portland, of course got to poke fun at the sibling rivalry between our two cities.

The crowd that came out to see them were a bit tamer than I was hoping, but such is a Tuesday night in Seattle, I suppose. Still the Sisters rocked the evening like a big pre-ki for Seattle PRIDE! Let's Have a Kiki, Keep Your Shoes On and Only the Horses from their newest album were definite favorites (I NEED this album!) but it was a couple of their oldies like Take Your Mama Out, and I Don't Feel Like Dancin were the crowd sing-a-longs.

The Paramount floor was hot, sweaty and crowded but it was a lot of fun and I am super glad to have experienced it.  The Sisters are a fun show, and even though he didn't take his pants off, Jakes Shears is as sexy on stage as he is in all of those nearly naked photos he tweets.  He rocked the dance floor all night, and even though he was looking a little winded by the end, he gave the encore his all.  Awesome.  Their newest album Magic Hour is out, and I believe available on iTunes.  Check them out!

The other major event I had the opportunity to participate in was the Seattle Erotic Arts Festival at The Fremont Studios.  This year marked 10 years of SEAF's celebration of Love and Lust, and it was a blast.  I had the opportunity to perform on the Mainstage, as a Stage Pup and as part of Waxie Moon's finale piece.  The opportunity to share the stage (and dressing room!) with super stars like Waxie Moon, Miss Indigo Blue, Tigger, The Shanghai Pearl, Tamara the Trapeze Lady, and everyone else was a true honor.

The show itself, hosted by Armitage Shanks, was a pretty stellar piece of erotic entertainment.  We had music by The Wet Spots (creators of SHINE!), aerial work, seductive strip tease, a guy wedding a dildo, a mild mannered nurse who become Wonder Woman by night, an auto-erotic experience while cleaning the tub, pole dancing, acrobatic bounding, boys in very little on their hands and knees, and bukkake, and we tied it all up with a rousing anthem the of sexual-spiritual kind.  Both nights I walked home glowing and thanking God that I was born a sexual creature.

As for the remainder of the festival, I had a lot of fun wandering the halls before the show began.  Artwork depicting everything from a clown emerging from a vagina and climbing a massive phallus, to photos of a dazzling array of sexual positions, a history of homo-erotic photography from the 1950s on, a chia-pet vagina, and paintings both bizarre, and beautiful.  There were demonstrations of bondage, strip tease, and other erotic arts, and performances including suspension, body painting, and a rather beautiful piece of sensuality performed by the ladies of Sinner Saint Burlesque.  There were clowns, masters and slaves, guys in drag, and women in leather, masks, and lots of skin.  It was a lot to take in, so to speak, but it was pretty awesome.  If you didn't get to go this year, I would encourage you to check it out next year!

As for today, Pride, well wouldn't you know it, I had to work and I work again tomorrow so no play for me.  Still the I've seen picture of the parade and I know there is a lot going on tonight.  So when people read this tomorrow, or in the days to come, know that I am excited to year your PRIDE experiences this year!

It doesn't matter if you are gay or straight, lesbian or bisexual, transgendered, transvestite, mono, poly, vanilla, kinky, or anything... take PRIDE in who you love and how you love them.

Loves!

~ Fosse Jack

"Blood, Sugar, Sex, Magic"

Sinner Saint Burlesque’s newest show, “Blood, Sugar, Sex, Magic” is one helluva spell. While opening night was not without a few kinks, the over all effects of SSB’s sensual enchantments were strongly and positively felt.

The narrative of this piece follows the individual journeys of six mortal women in their quest to instigate the return of the goddess Ishtar to Earth.  Ishtar, the Babylonian goddess of love, fertility, sex and war has fled to the Underworld in response to the ‘war on women’ agitated by 2012’s loud mouthed sexists in politics.  As a result lust has faded from the world, and with it the drive to propagate has diminished. The world itself stands on the brink of ruin, and the return of Ishtar is the only remedy against the extinction of life.

The story is a clever, if not so subtle piece of social commentary that draws on elements of ancient mythology to make a point.  The classical Ishtar was a powerful and important deity.  As a fertility goddess she was necessary to everyday life, she represented beauty, strength, and vitality, and the story of her descent into the Underworld is one of the most important and famous myths about her. She was also dangerous, as much daemon and deity, and other ancients myths tell of the ruin that came to the men that loved her. Even mighty warriors and fellow gods, lost virility and strength after tasting her love.  She was both loved and feared because she represented the strength, and aggression of women.

Considering the recent political movement against women’s rights, Ishtar is an appropriate icon.  But enough of that… it is not the intent of this article to analyze the politics of the show.  Just be aware that they are there.

While the Sinner Saints has been known for their thematic shows (Animalia being my favorite) this venture into story-based shows is still fairly new.  BSSM is only the second of their new narratives, but the Ladies have honed their theatrical chops since their first run earlier this spring.  BSSM is a strong story, and a more cohesive show.  The benefit of a narrative based show is that cohesion.  It allows an audience member a sense of total immersion.  Conversely, if an act doesn’t quite fit it sticks out a little bit more.  Over all, the acts in BSSM fit rather nicely.  That being said, don’t analyze too much.  A few cultural/geographic references used as introductory material seem out of place, or mismatched with the acts.  These did not take away from the show or individual performances, but for me at least, momentarily dispelled the suspension of disbelief.

BSSM features four of Sinner Saint’s Principles; Evilyn Sin Claire, Dona de Couri, Lady Tatas, and Polly Wood; as well as two new interns, Lotti Glitterati and Nikola Teasela.  Host Dive le Deviant serves in the role of Ishtar, and much to my pleasure the Sweethearts (Briq House and Penelope Rose) are as much a part of the storyline and show as the rest.  (Way to give props to the ‘hardest working girls in show business”!) 

With 6 solo artists, Seattle’s “Bitch in Charge” and the lovely Sweethearts all sharing the stage, there is a LOT of girl power rocking The Noc Noc this run.  The individual performances are all solid, and while opening night had a few costume glitches, and some difficulty with a hanging prop (keep your props simple to rig folks!), the ladies of SSB handled it all like pros. 

The highlights of the show, however, are the group acts.  That’s right, it’s plural!  While SSB has long performed group finales, the addition of an opening group act really gives this show a sexy kick-start!  Would Wicked be nearly as spectacular without its opening number?  How about a classic like Guys and Dolls, or contemporary burlesque shows like Land of the Sweets?  The opening of the show is what hooks the audience, and this show has a great hook!

So Ladies and Gentlemen, if you like stories about love goddesses being seduced into returning to Earth from the Underworld, revel in watching mortals find sexual enlightenment, or just happen to be a fan of T&A, Sinner Saint Burlesque’s “Blood, Sugar, Sex, Magic” is right up your alley.  For you burlesque aficionados, BSSM has a bit of classic, a bit of neo, a spoonful of theatricality, a pinch of punk rock and a healthy dose of raw, in your face sexuality.  I said it before, it’s one helluva of spell, and the Sinner Saints cast it well.

You can catch Sinner Saint Burlesque every Thursday night at The Noc Noc in Downtown Seattle, and I suggest you do!  “Blood, Sugar, Sex, Magic” will run through July 26^th! More information at: http://www.facebook.com/events/188558204603273/

Loves!

~ Fosse Jack

Upcoming Shows (June 2012)

Well Ladies and Gentlemen, it's that time again! That is, it's time to get the skinny on what all is going on in Seattle's Burlesque and Cabaret Scenes.  Here is my list!

This first event on my list is a labor of Love.  You may or may not be aware but Seattle lost two long time members of its performance art community in last week’s tragic shooting at Café Racer; Drew Keriakedes and Joe Albanese.  I did not know these gentlemen myself, but many of my dear friends and artistic comrades did. As easy as it would be to give into despair over the shooting and loss, it is so much more important to take heart and cheer on the community as they pull together to put on this first show.

Thursday 7^th, “IT’S BEEN GOOD TA KNOW YA! A Benefit for Café Racer Victim’s Family Fund” at The Neptune
A Concert, Sing-a-long and Celebration of the lives of our dearly departed, featuring members of Circus Contraption, God's Favorite Beefcake and many, many, more!
8pm ($15 donation)

Help us celebrate the lives of our dear friends with music and dance, while helping the victims' families with financial assistance.  Proceeds will directly benefit the families of the victims, the surviving victim, spouses left behind, and Cafe Racer.  Money left over will be used to create a living memorial for the victims and scholarships in their name.

Event Page - http://www.facebook.com/events/460622400633279/

The fan boy I am is excited to announce Sinner Saint Burlesque’s newest show will also launch this Thursday!  SSB performs every Thursday night at The Noc Noc, and are Seattle’s longest running weekly revue.  Here are the deets:

Thursday 7^th (and every Thursday Night), “Blood Sugar Sex Magic” at The Noc Noc

Sinner Saint Burlesque presents a narrative-cabaret experience that travels you along the path of six mortal maidens in pursuit of sexual enlightenment, and allows you to behold as they transform into supernatural sex-goddesses before your very eyes.

Supremely hosted by Diva le Déviant and starring the supernatural sensations Doña Dei Cuori, Evilyn Sin Claire, Lady Tatas, and Polly Wood. Also featuring the otherworldly talents of Lotti Glitterati, Nikola Tease-La, and the Sinner Saint Sweethearts.

Doors 9pm, show 9:30; Tickets $15

To reserve seats email Info@SinnerSaintBurlesque.com

Friday 8^th, “The Sexiest Catch: An Undersea Adventure” at The Jewelbox

The Tempting Tarts Presents “The Sexiest Catch”. Get ready to set sail on the S.S. Tart as we take you on a nautical adventure through the glittery waters of burlesque! It's gonna be a magical, rainbow-colored journey through the sea! What will be the catch of the day!?

Event Page - http://www.facebook.com/events/239461822835433/

Back in January I started hosting a monthly cabaret at The Can Can.  For one night a month I get to channel Joel Grey, tell stories, and take people on a journey into a dark and hazy world.  It’s a blast and I’d love to see you there sometime!

Sunday 10^th, “The Sound and Smoke Cabaret” at The Can Can

Return to an era of decadence and debauchery, as our little band of misfits explore the pre-WWII German Cabaret Er...a once again! New acts, some new performers and a perfect way to end your weekend and get home early on a Sunday night!

Event Page - http://www.facebook.com/events/184345585026953/

Ladies and Gentlemen, an era is coming to an end this month! Cabaret Scene Celebrity Anita Goodman has been hosting her variety show at The Rendezvous for years, and this month will mark her last production there.  Where is she going from here?  Knowing this “crazy (like a fox) blonde bombshell” it could be anywhere!

Thursday 14^th, “The Anita Goodman Experience Season Finale” at The Jewelbox

The Anita Goodmann Experience returns for its final appearance at the Rendezvous Jewel Box Theater at 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 14, 2012 . The Rendezvous is located at 2322 2nd Ave in Seattle’s Belltown Neighborhood. Tickets are $10 and available at the door.

Event Page - http://www.facebook.com/events/365202463532990/

Shameless plug alert!  You should come see me in this next event…

Monday 18^th, “Starving Artists on Parade” at The Noc Noc

Starving Artist on Parade is a variety night of true proportions. We look all over the Seattle area looking for up and coming talent here in Seattle. Every third Monday at the Noc Noc you can come and see the very best of what Seattle has to offer, live music, burlesque, bellydancing, magic, mayhem and more!! Each month we provide a wide gamut of talent from performers to vendors; eight performers, four vendors, all for the low price of only $5!!!

Tuesday 19^th, “Tuesday Tease: An Evening of Burlesque with Live Accompaniment” at The LUCID

Tuesday tease is Seattle’s only bi-monthly burlesque revue with live musical accompaniment!  The show brings together the musical styliens of the Lurid Spectacles (Meg van Huygen, Tyson Lynn, Jono Green, Jeff Myers and Jen Nelson) and a rotating cast of Seattle’s best burlesque artists to create an evening of eye-popping and toe-tapping entertainment.  Tuesday Tease takes place at LUCID in the U District on the 3^rd Tuesdays of the month, in April, June, August, October and December.

Hosted by Sailor St. Claire, June’s show features burlesque by Sir Eddie Van Glam, Lola Lockeheart, and Bitsy Rini!

Event Page - http://www.tuesdayteaseseattle.com/

Okay this one isn’t a burlesque show, exactly, but there will be a lot of ‘showing’ going on, including some burlesque, and just a whole lot of interesting, sexy, and just plain weird stuff. J  If you like burlesque, or happen to be a fan of sex in any or all of its many varieties, it’s worth looking into!

Thursday 21^st, Friday 22^nd, & Saturday 23^rd “Seattle Erotic Arts Festival”

Enjoy an immersive experience of world-class visual art, erotic short films, glittering performances, captivating literary art, interactive installations, vibrant after-parties, enlightening lectures and workshops, a wildly popular Festival Store, and so much more.

Event Page - http://www.facebook.com/events/211593818957526/

I have had the great fortune of lending my talents as an emcee to this quirky &  macabaret (I’m coining that phrase, but feel free to use it!).  The Blackmoor Travelling Picture Show is like The Addams Family crossed with an Old World Troupe of Minstrels, and maybe the B-52s.  Fun right?  You should check it out!

Thursday 28^th, “The Blackmoor Revue” at The Can Can

Join the Blackmoor Travelling Picture Show as they present a wild cabaret of twisted performance and music. Featuring new material and some very special friends, each show will be a unique event you won't wanna miss!

Event Page - http://www.blackmoorshows.com/

Thursday 28^th, “Westside Burlesque Revue” at The Skylark

For those of your on the Westside, here is an opportunity for some ecdysiastic entertainment.  The 4^th Thursday of every month bring the Westside Burlesque Revue at The Skylark Café.  Producer Whisper De Corvo imports artists from across the water (well the bridge at least) to put on this show.

Intimate, fun, and affordable, this show is a great night out for you West Seattlelites!

Event Page – http://skylarkcafe.com/calendar.html

Calling all Seattle geeks, nerds, sci-fi fans and anglophiles, this next show is meant for you!  Ever wonder what happens inside that blue box? Some of Seattle’s geekiest burlesquers are coming together (snerk) to share their TARDIS inspired fantasies with you.  The Doctor is in… but which of his Companions is receiving?  Is it Rose Tyler or Sarah Jane Smith? Maybe Donna Noble (nah, they’re just mates!)? What about pan-sexual Jack Harkness, or the incorrigable River Song?  It might not look it from the outside, but behind the blue door there is room for them all!

Friday 29^th & Saturday 30^th, “Behind the Blue Door” at The Annex Theatre

Behind The Blue Door: A Dr. Who-inspired Cabaret is our sexy, silly take on the Whoniverse. Join us for an evening of burlesque, dance and more as we shimmy, shake, tease, and twirl our way across time and space with the help of a tarted-up TARDIS. With eleven Doctors, multiple companions, several spin-off shows, and an entire universe to explore anything can happen!

Event Page - http://www.facebook.com/events/238888586215972/

As you can see there is a LOT going on this month, and there are even more awesome opportunities coming up later on in the summer, so stay tuned! I'll be keeping you tuned in!

Loves!

~ Fosse Jack

Want a personal recommendation? Send me an e-mail or look me up on Facebook.  I’d be happy to chat with you help you pick your ‘ideal show.’

Are you a performer or producer in the Seattle community and have a show coming up later this summer? Send me the details and I’d be happy to pass them on.