The Scarlet Curtain

Grab Bag! A Burlesque Revue

2012-02-03T12:40:00.000-08:00

Tonight a new producer has made her mark on the ever growing Seattle Burlesque Scene. Miss Scarlett O’Hairdye, a graduate of the Academy of Burlesque and a founding member of the Sass Boom Bang Burlesque Troupe has launched Unnatural Redhead Productions with Grab Bag! A Burlesque Revue.

Typically the term ‘grab bag’ is one laden with mixed connotations, but the show this evening was pretty solid all around. The evening had elements of glamour, comedy, seduction, and more with the comic styling of Jenny Sayquah tying things together.

From experienced burlesquers Iva Handfull, Whisper De Corvo and Mitzy Sixx to some of Seattle’s newer talent such as Solange Corbeau, Lotti Glitterati, Ginger Julep and Violet Deville, to belly dancer Katana, and of course producer Scarlett, “Grab Bag!” provides a fair variety of burlesque entertainment.

The highlights of the show were most definitely Iva Handfull, whose precision performance and hyper sexuality is among the best in Seattle, Lotti Glitterati, a Burlesque Starlet in the making, and producer Scarlet O’Hairdye whose in your face attitude was a particular crowd pleaser and whose act was good finish to the show.

As far as back bar entertainment goes, you could do far worse than “Grab Bag!” at The Marsbar, and if you don’t already have plans this Saturday evening, I’d suggest you check it out. The Marsbar has decently priced drinks, and for its first show Unnatural Redhead Productions has put together a good line up and a consistently entertaining show.

Grab Bag! A Burlesque Revue

Feb 4th @ 8:00pm and 10:00pm.
Tickets $10 at the door.
Boobs Included.

Loves!

~ Fosse Jack

A Burlesque Double Feature!

2012-01-31T15:49:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends and Readers,

February is going to be jam packed with awesome shows to see. It seems that folks are feeling particularly frisky and amorous what with Valentine’s Day coming up. That being said there are two shows that I would particularly like to recommend to you, and if you are looking for a night out the best thing about them is that they are Two-Shows-In-One, a bona fide Burlesque Double Feature!

The first is Pinups & Pasties, A Cabaret For Our Troops! The Pinup Angels are partnering up with Bachelor Pad Magazine to bring you a bevy of classic babes and burlesque! The line-up will include Miss Kitty Baby, Pidgeon Von Tramp, Inga Ingénue, Lydia McLane and more and will be hosted by Bachelor Pad’s own Java!

Vital Statistics: February 18^th at The Re-Bar; Doors 7:30pm/Show 8:00pm; Tickets: pinupsandpasties2012.eventbrite.com; $12 Advance or $15 at The Door. (Proceeds of the show benefit The Pinup Angel’s care package efforts and USA troops near and far!)

The second follows right on the tassels of Pinups & Pasties! Fosse’s Follies ~ Boys! Bois! Boyz! This Boylesque Revue is brought to you by Jack & Wood Productions and Sir Eddie Van Glam. This celebration of ‘boydom’ will explore many of the myriad aspects of boylesque, from both the male and female points of view! The performers with include: Sir Eddie Van Glam, EmpeROAR Fabulous, Mitzy Sixx, Man Johnson, Dominick, Bolt Action, and me, Fosse Jack; and to wrangle all these rowdy boyz, we have Daddy le Deviant!

Vital Statistics: February 18^th at The Re-Bar; Doors 10:00pm/Show 10:30pm; Tickets: boysboisboyz.eventbrite.com; $12 Advance or $15 at The Door. (%15 of tickets sales of Fosse’s Follies will be donated to Fosse’s charity of choice: Lambert House.)

Now what is this Burlesque Double Feature you mentioned Fosse? Well its quite simple, it’s Two Shows For $20! What more it’s the perfect burlesque night for boy & girl couples! Ladies take your Boys to see the Pinups, and Gentlemen take your Girls to see the Boyz!

We would love to see you there, it is bound to be a highly entertaining evening!

Loves!

~ Fosse Jack

The Velvet Stage

2012-01-13T16:36:00.000-08:00

Velvet is a private club in the Sodo-District that offers an aesthetically unique and genuinely Seattle experience that is perfect for private and corporate events.

Reclaimed from a once abandoned warehouse space, two blocks South of Safeco Field, Velvet combines the rustic qualities of Pacific North West hardwoods, gritty, Old Seattle locale with the softer Old World charms of rich velvets, candlelight ambience and elegant artwork.

“It is like stepping into a New Orleans bordello or the boudoir of one of Old Seattle’s Seamstresses.”

As a private club, Velvet is capable of catering to your individual needs. Whether you simply seek a sultry Seattle locale to host your party, or are interested in putting together a raucous affair with full service bar and food catering, Velvet can help make your vision come true.

Furthermore, Velvet is uniquely positioned to provide a wide variety of entertainment, both tame and exotic to those who would like to spice up their events! With extensive connections throughout Seattle’s rich and vibrant artistic community, Velvet can help you line up entertainment from circus arts and aerialists, DJs and dancers, vocalists and musicians, to some of Seattle’s finest burlesque artists.

Entertain your guests with a choice artist or two, or simply have one of Velvet’s fine DJ connections provide ambiance and dance music to help facilitate social interactions and liven up your event.

Looking to entertain your guests with a full blown show? Talk to us. Our artistic team would be happy to work with you to design a full program that will keep your guests talking long after the event is past!

Velvet is located at 1701 1^st Avenue South, Seattle WA; Second Floor (stair access only). Parking is available (and free) at the back of the building.

Looking for more information? Want to see the space for yourself?

Website: www.velvetstage.com

E-Mail: info@velvetstage.com

Call: 206-380-9576

Personal Note:

The first time I walked into Velvet, I nearly started crying. It was like stepping into a dream, and I am convinced that I am not the only person to feel this way, indeed I am sure that you will too once you experience it for yourself.

It is all class, and charm, grit and rusticity all at the same time. It is the perfect Seattle venue; smart, sexy, independent and determined to be its own thing. Don’t believe me, see for yourself!

Loves!

Fosse Jack

MOD CAROUSEL in Sinner Saint Burlesque's Winter Guests Extravaganza

2012-01-13T00:45:00.000-08:00

Okay, so there are times when writing a review of a show is difficult. One is when you are friends with the performers and the show is not very good (not applicable). Two is when you are a bit intoxicated (admittedly applicable). Three is when the you are friends with the performers and they are so good that they blow your minds (very applicable!). If any or all of these are true is it almost impossible to be objective, there for, I'm not going to try.

MOD CAROUSEL's performance at The NocNoc tonight was f*ing awesome! A show about three super sexy super heroes fighting a 'trio' of pop-diva vixens that would turn half of Seattle's Drag Queens green with envy? How could this not be amazing? Well it couldn't, because it is amazing!

Okay, forewarning, my Boy calls me "Puddles" for good reason... this puddle is just for Mod Carousel. ;-)

The Luminous Pariah has been among my top favorite male performers ever since I saw him perform at Magnum, four years ago (ish). His comedic timing, showmanship and daring would be enough make him amazing. Add that on top of a smoking hot body? Okay... a reviewer should maintain objectivity... not objectify. Two different things. But it's true. Luminous takes the Drag art-form and makes it his own. He lip syncs, and struts about in outrageous costumes, but he is really smart about. I already think David Attenborough adorable, but thanks to Luminous... well I might need my Sweetie on hand next time I watch The Life of Birds.

The Paris Original made me cry the first time I saw him perform. Few women, let alone men, have such mastery of the emotional element of ballet as Paris does, and his skill en pointe is breath taking. What more he blends prima ballerina poise with go-go boy's abandon and that is something even fewer people can do! So whether he is selling a soul wrenching piece of choreo or making me laugh myself silly with a sly look and boyish grin I adore this performer, and am constantly in awe of his skills.

Trojan Original, the "Strong Man" of this super trio is a bon-a-fide stud muffin. With the bravado a premier danseur and the talent to back it up, Trojan is a delight to watch. He is what would happen if a cartoonist captured the disciplined essence of Baryshnikov and the campy styles of a self-aware Schwarzenegger. On a side note, few hetero-guys can do what Trojan does with impunity. I'm serious, a lot of straight guys in burlesque, make straight guys in the audience uncomfortable. Trojan knows how to play his audience. He tugs at the... um, heart strings, of straight women and gay men, and makes straight boys laugh their asses off, cause he's just that good.

Okay so anyone who has heard me gush over one or all of these boys knows that I have a huge crush on each of them, but let me tell you that after tonight that crush extends to their female member as well. Leeni, the hostess and chanteuse of the evening was amazing, and played the roles of three different drag queens with the flare of a true musical theatre maven. I haven't felt this way about a girl since I watched Megan Mullaly perform in Young Frankenstein. Great stage presence, great voice and excellent versatility. Brava diva!

And no I didn't forget you Dona, sweetie! Dona De Cuori, the lovely lass whose task it is to hold down her the fort while her Sisters are off in London rocked it tonight. Dona's blend of dancer and comedienne is solid, and highly enjoyable, and her acts fit beautifully into the story line. Win!

Okay, gushing done, artistically this was a very good show. The individual choreo was superb and even though the physicality of the three male performers did not sync up perfectly in the group numbers, their dedication and joy in the art forms did. As for the show as a whole, it is one of the better examples of a theme show, woven through story, that I have seen in a long time. The individual acts, pulled from existing repertoire were easy to see in the new light of Leeni's comic book plot line.

Ladies and gentlemen, let me seriously recommend this show. Well as seriously as I can knowing that their is only one more chance to see it and I want to go again. :-) Next Thursday at The Noc Noc.

Loves!
Fosse Jack

Upcoming Shows to Start the New Year!

2012-01-04T14:46:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year Dear Ones!

So after a tumultuous end to 2011, I am back and am excited to make my first post of 2012. What better way to start off the New Year with a sneak peak at an upcoming show? Well a sneak peak at several upcoming shows, of courses!

The first coming up is the closing night of DARK MATTER, Sinner Saint Burlesque’s latest burlesque revue. Thursday night will be the last performance of this run, and the last time you will get to see the Ladies of SSB before they jet-set to London for a 2 month run at The Brickhouse! Join host Delilah, and performers Evilyn Sin Claire, Lady Tatas, Jesse Belle-Jones, and Polly Wood as they explore the darker side of the universe, world, and femininity.

DARK MATTER

I know you are asking yourselves: What?! The luscious ladies of Sinner Saint Burlesque are going to be gone for TWO MONTHS? What will we do on our Thursday’s nights? Well the answer is simple, you are going to keep going to SSB’s weekly revue and see some pretty awesome guest artists

! To start this extravaganza of Sinner Saint’s Friends and Family will be another of Seattle’s hottest troupes: MOD CAROUSEL!

Join the Luminous Pariah, the Paris Original, the Trojan Original, and the lovely Leeni, with SSB’s Dona de Cuori rounding out the line up with those luscious hips and shapely legs! With so much sexiness on stage, this is a show you don’t want to miss!

MOD CAROUSEL

Finally, one more show to put on your calendar will be your first chance to see me performer this year! Resolutions: A Burlesque and Drag Review Show is the lasted production by Vixen Valentine and Beatrice Belladona. This one is going to be a performer’s choice show, so anything could happen. The lineup includes: Vixen Valentine, Beatrice Belladona, Ursula Major, Sara Dippidty, Chesty LaRue and more. And hosting this grab bag of burlesque will be The Glamorous Gal With The Golden Gullet, Gams Galore!

Resolutions: A Burlesque and Drag Review Show

A lot can and will happen this year so make sure you get out and make the best of it! Hope to see you at one or all of these shows!

Loves!

~ Fosse Jack

Back Bar Beauties Burlesque

2011-12-09T11:59:00.000-08:00

One of Seattle’s newest troupes, Back Bar Beauties Burlesque, is attempting a new approach to building their audience base. Their holiday show is playing three nights in three different bars, and three different neighborhoods. Last night this gypsy troupe of burlesque performers was at Sonya’s Skyy Lounge in Downtown Seattle. I am a big fan of the traveling show format. Some of my best experiences as an actor have been with such shows, so I am excited to see a troupe embracing this in the burlesque community.

I applaud the Beauties’ for this concept and the guts to go this route with their shows. It is hard work and creatively very challenging. I do want to caution them that they are going to need to ramp up their game if the troupe is going to have staying power.

Individually the acts were all pretty solid, aside from feeling a bit cramped (Sonya’s back bar has a tiny little stage), but as a collection the show felt a bit… lackluster. At first glance the show seems pretty varied. Laela Lovechild’s tap dance routine was high energy and spirited, and I was impressed by her choreography. Tin Pan Sally and Olatsa Assin’s musical theatre themed acts added a lovely element of vocal performance to the show; and Tin Pany Sally's Misery themed piece was pretty darn funny. Madisun Avenue’s wind up doll was a beautiful and fun take on the classic Nutcracker’s Columbine, and Donatella Melies engaged the entire audience with her Christmas tree act. All of this was great!

Where the show lost me was that despite the apparent variety, nearly everything ended the same, followed the same arc of the tease, and honestly there wasn’t enough teasing in the show for me. Stripping and baring a beautiful body is all well and good, but I wanted so much more from these lovelies. I wanted more power on the stage, more confidence, more sensuality. I wanted more costume, more pieces to remove. I wanted more spectacle, perhaps a touch of pageantry.

My final critique is that the group act felt superfluous. It neither introduced something new nor topped what was previously seen. As a finale it kind of dragged. As an encore however it would have worked fairly well. My advice to the ladies of BBBB is to switch the order of curtain call and your group act.

All of this boils down to the structuring of the show. A good burlesque show is itself a burlesque act. There should be an arc, a tease, and a solid finish. The audience should want more but feel satisfied at the same time. This takes practices, trial and error and flexibility to switch things up and if this group sticks with it I think they’ll put together some really fun collections.

Back Bar Beauties Burlesque, with Laela Lovechild, Olatsa Assin, Donatella Melies, Madisun Avenue and Tin Pan Sally, has one more performance of their holiday show coming up at Coppergate in Ballard, December 18th. Help support this troupe and give them some love and encouragement. There is potential here!

Loves!

Fosse Jack

PS: If you continue to use the personable and lovely Miss Anita Goodman as your hostess, remember that Anita is the ‘eye of a hurricane’, the calm within a storm. Don't be afraid to bump it up a notch to provide a stronger contrast with your emcee!

Upcoming Show: Christmas Stockings

2011-12-06T09:39:00.000-08:00

I am the proud brother of a United States Marine. My brother has been an anchor of support for me, accepting me as gay when the larger part of my family has not been able to accept that part of my life. He is clueless of course as to how same-sex relationship work and I have to say I laughed really hard when he asked me if I was the “man” or the “woman” in the relationship, but that aside I cannot begin to fully express my gratitude for him personally or my pride in what he does.

I cannot agree or be happy with many of the choices the US government has made over my lifetime or is still making, but I will continue to lend my emotional and vocal support to the men and women who serve in the Armed Forces. Now I get to help out with more!

Seattle’s Miss Kitty Baby (also a US Marine!) and her Pinup Angels are having their holiday show fundraiser to help raise money for care packages which they will send to US Troops the world over. The show, Christmas Stockings will be held at The Rendezvous on December 17th with a performance at 7:00pm and a second at 8:30pm. The lineup is super sexy and will include Miss Kitty Baby, Lucky Penny and Tamara the Trapeze Lady among others!

I would love to encourage all of you to add Christmas Stockings to your holiday show list (I know there are a lot!) because the cause is a really good one. Whether you agree with government policy or more likely do not, I know that my burlesque comrades won’t be able to say no to supporting the offering of sexy cheesecake and goodies to stressed out men and women!

Help ensure some Angels’ ears will ring and come to Christmas Stockings.

The Pinup Angels present Christmas Stockings: A Burlesque and Cabaret Fundraiser featuring an all-star cast of Seattle talent. All proceeds will benefit our care package fund to send morale to our deployed troops.

Dec 17, 2011 TWO SHOWS!
7:00 PM & 8:30 PM
$15 Advance... $20 DOS
Get Tickets Here!
Loves!

Fosse Jack

Bootleg Burlesque, Top Shelf Burlesque at Recession Proof Prices

2011-12-04T19:08:00.000-08:00

Last night at Happy Ending Urban Mercantile, a store front repurposed for the evening as a performance venue, hosted a theatrical throwback to burlesque’s fringe origins in Seattle. The show, Bootleg Burlesque, produced by Solange Corbeau and Flirty Sanchez, paid homage to prohibition era entertainment and depression era values … doing taboo things on the cheap.

There were two rules that every performer had to follow. 1) They could not spend more than $50 on a costume (which is a feat to be sure!) and 2) any pieces they repurposed or borrowed could have never been used as part of a burlesque act before. So this group of artists stretched the limits of their creativity to create acts that were both visually entertaining AND inexpensively fashioned, and despite these limitations they all succeeded.

The venue itself presented both challenges opportunity. The size of the performance space was a hindrance, and more than once I was afraid a performer was going to crash into one of the nearby pieces of furniture or the audience. Being space conscious myself, it was not a venue I would have felt comfortable performing in, for the sheer fact that from the wall to the audiences’ noses I wouldn’t be able to extend my 6’4” wingspan (damn lanky limbs). As for the audience, I was fortunate to have a good seat and even I lost sight of the performers from time to time. If the producers are going to continue producing here they will need to either reformat the staging or lower the ticket price. The front row had a $15 view, but most everyone else ended up just a little cheated.

That being said if the producers reconsider the staging (perhaps consider doing a floor show in the round?) the space offers some amazing opportunities that almost make up for the disadvantages.

Last night Bootleg Burlesque allowed Seattle burlesque performers to break the last major taboos of our performance community. In an alcohol free venue the legality surrounding nudity is loosened and the removal of a pasty becomes the final reveal that Seattle audiences have yet to experience. I am glad that most of the performers retained their nipple coverings, because it made the couple of times where nipple was bared all the more powerful and sexy.

The cast of performers never failed to impress.

Hostess Diva Le Deviant was in her element in this intimate space, and wearing little save $50 (seriously she had $20s for pasties and a pair of $5s as a merkin!) she titillated the audience with her unique blend of elegance, class and over-sexed bawdy humor. Diva darling, you are a Tigress among future-Cougars.

Musical artist Sara Dippity serenaded us during the pre-show and intermission with some beautifully sung, sultry jazz pieces. It is hard work to entertain an antsy audience during their break, and it can be thankless but Sara took it all in stride and I very much appreciated her performances.

Polly Wood opened the show with her blend of classic bump and grind, silver-screen inspired storylines and musical theatre camp. I love it when a burlesque act tells a clear story and Polly is one of the best storytellers in the art form.

Harriet Scary followed Polly. Harriet is what happens when you take a performance artist, lock them in a dark room and starve it. Than after a couple of weeks you unleash it into a flock of captive audience members. I mean this as both a compliment to the artist and a warning to any future audiences that get to experience this off kilter trany-wreck.

The next performer was new to me, but I will have to say that he can join the trio of plushy-pals on my bed anytime. Gosh I could snuggle with Teddy Bare for hours. Teddy’s act was short, sweet and funny, and he had a mastery of comic self-consciousness that few artists can affect with any level of truthfulness. I hope to see more of him in the future.

Solange Corbeau entertained us with her love of whiskey (which is a real and very romantic thing… I’ve heard her discuss this passion before), in a solid piece of moonshiner comedy. Her opening was the funniest thing of the night, I love it when a performer can make me laugh by doing 'nothing.'

Another performer new to me was the first act closer, Fanny Tragic. With my brief experience of this performer I feel confident in saying that Fanny is the love child Lucille Ball and the Clown from It. There was a little too much time between the first and second parts of her act but the audience seemed to be entertained enough to allow it, so I will too.

The second act was opened one of my favorite camp-artists, Lady Tatas. Tatas performed her Dimestore Diamond act with finesse and flare. Her costume was also the most creatively crafted, using trash bags, beads and other mundane objects to create a rather dazzling show girl ensemble. Lovely.

Watching Madisun Avenue perform is like watching the collision of a group of gossamer clad coryphées in slow motion. She is graceful, limber and mesmerizing. Her three part act structure is also refreshing allowing the audience to bask in her presence for longer than a single song.

Olatsa Assin packs a lot of attitude into her petite frame and her number last night embraced that attitude. I would have liked the act to go for a little longer, because two minutes of Olatsa just isn’t enough. I haven’t seen anyone tie a tie in a reverse strip yet. Hint. Hint.

Flirty Sanchez embraced the repressed energy of Prohibition Era and the drive and passion of the coinciding Suffrage movement in an act done to spoken word poetry. It was fascinating and I couldn’t help but compare Flirty to Catherine Hepburn as her regal presence captivated me. Normally such an act, that is one without a strong musical anchor, would have lost the audience pretty quickly but Flirty commanded them and they obeyed. Brava.

Randi Rascal was the final performer of the night, and her performance will have a lasting impression on me. Like Flirty, Randi used minimalistic movement to convey her message. But while Flirty’s motivation was to simply express the truth, Randi’s was to actively dominate her audience and that she did well. Randi’s reveal of a single bare nipple was terribly sexy, but it was the appearance of a whiskey flask hidden somewhere upon her nearly naked person that brought the house down. She pulled WHAT our or her WHAT? Seriously yo, that was some sexy sh!t.

Last night the performers brought game to a playing field that was far from ideal and they rocked it. I’d like to applaud each of you, and look forward to seeing more of this kind of awesomeness in the future.

Loves!

Fosse Jack

Sinner Saint Burlesque Presents: DARK MATTER

2011-11-18T17:50:00.000-08:00

Sinner Saint Burlesque’s current show DARK MATTER is an exploration of the darker side of the soul; a journey through the “cosmos” in search of something that cannot be found externally because it only exists within our minds. It features a variety of burlesque acts, a few old favorites and several new pieces. Last night Evilyn Sin Claire, Dona Dei Cuori, Jesse Belle-Jones, and Polly Wood performed (Sorry I missed you Tatas!) with internationally known belly dancer, Delilah as host.

As a host Delilah is charming, if a little scattered. She approached the audience with good natured humor and shared some interesting “dark matter” facts. I would have liked a little more introductory info with certain acts, Dona’s especially could have used some extra set up (I thought the Alistair Crowley bit and “the beast” would have been great to elaborate on!). I would have also loved for her to play more with the “woman of the night” and less with the pirate captain schtick, but I have never been able to share Seattle’s obsession with pirates. I also feel that in act three when she let the piratic-affectation go to talk of life and death she seemed the most natural and comfortable. More please! Also more dancing, I very much enjoyed watching you!

Jesse Belle-Jones’ acts, her “Straight Jacket” number and her “Cycles” act (not sure what she calls it) were both exquisite. She explored and embraced the 'dark' aspects of femininity such as the strictures that society and psychology put on the female mind and the fact that women’s bodies rebel against them once a month. I have long believed that by embracing the difficulties pressed upon you, the evils so to speak, rather than fighting them, causes them lose their power over you. These were excellent and beautiful examples of embracing these trials and finding empowerment in them.

Polly Wood’s acts, the “Whore of Babylon” and “Soldier’s Wife” also explored the dark aspects of the soul. In one she delivers death to the “faithful” and finds pleasure in their blood, in the other she prepares both herself and her love for the death that is inevitable. I would have really liked to see a 'body' in the first act, but I'm not sure if thats in the 'sweet hearts' job description. (Hey Polly, let me know if you want to kill me on stage!) The Soldier’s Wife is especially powerful and I am glad she brought this one back. It makes me cry every time I see it.

Dona De Cuori explored the dark side of spirituality (or perhaps spiritual identity?) and the transformative power of death. In her “Beast” act she portrayed a shamanistic revelry or ecstasy as first, she was the beast, and then found her passion in the beast. Her “Black Feathers” act featured a fan powered ‘inferno’ and showed the dark, bestial, side of her being burned away to reveal her humanity beneath. I would have liked for her to take her head piece off, and complete the transformation.

Evilyn Sin Claire showed us the dark side of everyday life, specifically the extent to which our society will seek excuses for ‘illicit behavior’ in this case, Ambien. Fortunately Evilyn doesn’t need the excuse of “the pills made me do it” to tease and tantalize us with those vivacious curves! Her final act, embraces “The End”. An exploration of Mayan eschatology, and the movement toward the end of that calendar and the birth of a possible new age, this act is (and leads into) the piece de resistance of DARK MATTER.

As a whole DARK MATTER is an entertaining, and thoughtful revue. The individual acts are of SSB’s usually professional quality and with some polishing and streamlining of segues the show could be among their strongest.

In case you didn’t know SSB will be leaving Seattle for spell in January 2012 (to grace London with their presence!), so DARK MATTER will be the last run most of us will have the privilege of experiencing till they get back in early March. Check it out folks, this one makes you think! (I also have it on good authority that when Lady Tatas is back, she will be reprising her "Toddlers and Tiaras" act... which is one of these creepiest things I've seen on stage!)

Loves!

Fosse Jack

Academy of Burlesqe 202 Recital

2011-11-14T11:11:00.000-08:00

I don’t normally do write-ups for shows that I perform in, but my classmates deserve the recognition! On Saturday night I joined Man Johnson, Piston Chambers, Summer Lovin, Rip Curl, and the Rhinestone Stud, Sir Eddie Van Glam, on the stage at West Hall for the Burlesque 202 Graduation Recital. Our host? The Man, the Myth, the Mustache, Ernie Von Schmaltz!

Man Johnson: Few recital acts receive standing ovations, but Man Johnson rocked it with both of his numbers. Fearless on stage, he goes places that would make most performers blush. His Leather Daddy Subverted act was superb. His self-confidence and command of the audience made clear at the beginning made his total submission to an iconic Japanese chibi-cat all the more amazingly funny. His act (I will dub) ‘Love Sucks’ was so over the top and committed that our classmates joined in the uproarious laughter every time we saw it. SuPURRRRb, I bow before you sir!

Piston Chambers: You can’t help but love this incorrigible and precocious boi when (s)he busts out his signature, mischievous grin. His first number, which I like to call “It’s F*ck and Bake and I Helped” is a solid piece of burlesque comedy. High energy, and multi-layered this piece will never allow me to look at raw chicken the same way again! Piston’s “Drumline” act was daring, and fresh. It focused not on the strip tease but on the abandon of an artist truly loving what they do, the passion of which lead to the shedding of clothes. Piston always makes me really happy when he performs! Love you!

Summer Lovin: With grace and confidence, Summer Lovin dived head long into this nearly all boylesk group, and I believe made her Seattle debut in the process! Summer’s acts walked a fine line between classic and neo-burlesque. Her “Not in the Mood” act took an anti-glamour approach, and allowed her to focus on a very well played, back and forth tease with the audience. Her “Milk Maid” act likewise was a gift to the audience. Summer Lovin took stereotypical scenarios and turned them on their heads, in a fun and fresh way. I really look forward to seeing more of Summer and what she comes up with!

Rip Curl: Rip is a walking, talking, geek of a teddy bear and I love it! His ability to play a crowd is truly impressive. He asks the audience if they want him to ‘take it off’ and happily obliges when they enthusiastically say ‘Yes!’ His Firefly inspired dinosaur act is high energy, fun, and a definite crowd pleaser. His final reveal at the end made me SO happy and proud! His “Occupy” themed number was likewise popular. Channeling strength and determination, and more than a touch of outrage he both praised and chided unbridled protest. Very nice balance!

Sir Eddie Van Glam: I am particularly proud of the Rhinestone Stud, Sir Eddie Van Glam. Having had the opportunity to serve as friend and mentoring peer, I am truly thankful that he has continued in the art form and hope that he sticks with it for a long time! Van Glam’s first act was truly HOT. A very masculine take on a classic chair dance, Van Glam allowed himself to be sexy and stunned the audience with his strength and control. Later he ‘hammed’ it up with his celebrity crush act, implementing crisp and committed choreography and over the top, cartoon-character bravado. So good, Bud, I am immensely proud!

As a whole the show was amazing, and more than one person said it was one of the best recitals they’ve seen come out of AoB. With such talent as those artists above, and the expert guidance and unconditional support of our teacher, Waxie Moon, it is no wonder that this group rocked it!

I would personally like to say thank you to Waxie Moon for all of his work, and his amazing encouragement, to Miss Indigo Blue for her wonderfully frank feedback, to Ernie Von Schmaltz for an amazing job hosting, Solange Corbeau for being an awesome SM, Lisa for the AMAZING lights, Polly Wood for being her crazily dedicated self (Love you!), and to everyone else who made Saturday night possible.

To the community and amazing audience that showed up on Saturday night, we could not have done this with out you! Thank you for allowing us to share our hard work, and for giving us the energy we needed to shine!

To my classmates, it was truly an honor and a privilege to work with you, and I sincerely hope that we do so again. Each of you posses fabulous talent, and dedication, and I will be endlessly thankful for the encouragement and support you showed me over this course.

Loves!

Fosse Jack

STAGEright Presents G&S Pirates of Penzance

2011-10-29T09:58:00.000-07:00

Gilbert & Sullivan must be rolling in their graves with hysterical laughter thanks to STAGEright Theatre’s current production The Pirates of Penzance! My own response was no less dramatic. The spell weaved by the cast; crew and director of this raucous parody of a sarcastic satire moved me to silence and stillness. Enraptured in a cacophony of G&S music, pop culture references (and appropriated snippets of pop songs), over the top physical humor, brilliant actor “business” and more, all I could do was sit, watch and grin like an idiot.

For those of you who have never seen a G&S production (like me until last night) don’t expect much from the libretto, or plot for that matter. The lyrics are cute but silly, and the plot absurd. As for the music, it is pretty, and parts are down right beautiful, but its number of superfluous notes make Mozart's busiest concertos look conservative. During the lifetimes of W. S. Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan the show’s commentary had some serious bite, but as much as the G&S Society would like us to believe, that dog lost its teeth long ago; at least until last night. Director, Brendan Mack took this classic and in the spirit of its creators turned the traditions on its head. As Bob Fosse did with the musical Cabaret when he directed the film, Brendan Mack "destroyed it to save it."

Drawing from dozens of pop culture references, and parodying of pretentiousness in our own society, this production is a play in burlesque form. A cast of 11 actors, most double and triple casted, play all the roles usually worked by a cast of two dozen or more. On top of that, each actor has created their own personas

The show begins well before the first chords of the scores are played. Actors in unique “hipster” personalities mill about stage, play games, and carry out stories. These relationships resurface throughout the play adding a wonderful, sometimes subtle, sometimes not, layer of complexity. For example, Sophia Federighi the young woman who plays the Pirate King (did I mention this show includes gender bending?) and Paul Linnes who doubles as music director and the Major General spar both as their characters and as their “actor” personas.

Each member of the cast brings something special and unique to the show. Ashley Coates’ ability as an over the top character actor is brilliant and contrasts beautifully with Jordan Melin’s pretty boy pomp and stiff heroic ego. Jordan and Arwen Dewey beautifully rock the score as Frederick and Mabel (respectively), and Katherine Kuntz is one of the most talented young physical comedians I’ve seen in a LONG time!

I could go on and on about how much I really did love this show, but it wouldn’t do it justice. You have to see it to really get it, and even then it might take a little bit of time to let it all sink in. It is play in burlesque form. It takes a concept, strips it down, says something about it, puts its back together with tassels twirling, and through it all there is a storm of proverbial glitter, feathers and fans. There is a LOT to take in friends, but you should seriously try, and if one viewing isn’t enough STAGEright’s “repeat offender” policy will give you the opportunity to see it again.

STAGEright’s Production of The Pirates of Penzance plays through November 19, at Freehold in Belltown on Fri-Sat evenings at 8:00pm. For more information check out www.seattlestageright.org

It’s a Fosse Jack MUST SEE, so I hope you get the chance!

Loves,

~ Fosse Jack

Behind the Scarlet Curtain:: Burlesque 202 (Sneak Peak!)

2011-10-27T10:05:00.000-07:00

Without giving too much away, I want to give my readers a little sneak peak of what is going to come out of the Academy of Burlesque in another two-three weeks. Last week I started Burlesque 202 with Waxie Moon. What makes this class unique is that it is almost entirely a “boylesk” class! Myself, Sir Eddie Van Glam, Piston Chambers, Rip Curl, and Man Johnson make up the bulk of the class. Seattle’s newest import, Summer Lovin from Chicago will provide the sole aspect of burlesque femininity to the class, and she a cutie too!

If you are a familiar with at least two of these performers you can get an idea of how varied the acts are going to be. Piston Chamber’s campy, high energy, boyish charm contrasts beautifully with Sir Eddie Van Glam’s mature, metrosexual aura and robust masculinity. Rip Curl’s geek-chic concepts and goofball stage presence, and Man Johnson’s unabashed kink factor and shy slutiness will add some serious humor and definitely up the level of “sick” awesomeness. Finally, Summer Lovin’s classic burlesque beauty will provide the essential “hard points” for the audience to grasp on to.

As for me? Well, as always I will strive to add my own flare and style to the show. There will be some fun dance moves, some sultry attitude, and like many of my shows some sort of anthropomorphic animal. ;-P

As a teacher Waxie Moon has been incredibly encouraging and supportive, and his insights to our numbers have been amazing! I am so excited to get pushed to my limits as a dancer and as a burlesque performer in this class. I am also very excited by the insights and feedback others in the class have been providing. I must admit that I talk WAY too much, but it is nice to have the opportunity to contribute, and my classmates have yet to tell me to shush up. Of course there are two weeks left (yikes! Only two weeks left!) so we might get to that point soon.

A few words and phrases to tease and tantalize your imaginations: milk bottles, celebrity crushes, marching band, vacuum cleaner, “Occupy…” and my “special sting.”

The recital is on November 12th, with performances at 7:00pm and 9:30pm. You can purchase tickets from students in the class for $10 each. Let one of us know if you need tix and we hope to see you there. It’s gonna be all sorts of sexy.

Loves!

~ Fosse Jack

Fosse's Journal; Burlycon 2011, Thursday

2011-10-24T12:43:00.002-07:00

And so Burlycon 2011 begins; or rather it did at noon-Ish today, Thursday October 20th, 2011. Like many good theatrical presentation on opening night it was not a perfect opening. With computer systems down, the staff scrambled to manual check people in. Attendees took it in stride however, and it didn’t take long to get the events rolling.

I had the opportunity to attend a lecture given by Jo “Boobs” Weldon. Her passion for the story and purpose behind the museum (and pageant) of the Burlesque Hall of Fame was an excellent mood setting for my initial Burlycon experience.

Afterwards I spent most of the afternoon working alongside burlesque composer and performer, EmpeROAR Fabulous!!! as one of the Con’s merchandise hawkers. It was fun watching people look over the tee-shirts and rhinestone encrusted tank-tops, and marvel at just how small a “women’s large” is nowadays. (I don’t blame them, those tees where pretty tiny!)

The evening would eventually lead to the “Vintage Meet & Greet,” a crowded get together in the Hospitality Suite. It was fun to see everyone together, but to be perfectly honest it was a bit overwhelming. After making my rounds, sampling a few of the delectable snacks provided by Zephyr Paquette, and trying in vain to remember any names I had tried to hear during introductions, I retired to the hotel lounge for a burger and martini with fellow performer (and Burlycon roommate) Ella Titsgerald.

My hunger sated I find myself drifting into a state of pseudo exhaustion; the sort of weariness that comes from working 10-days straight before diving into a fun but rather intense series of social events. So instead of attending the peer reviews this evening, I felt it would be better to actually decompress just a little and maybe, just maybe be well rested enough to make it through these next exciting days.

To any performers being reviewed tonight, I apologize for not support you. It is, I assure you, nothing personal… I’m simply beyond my capacity for the evening.

Dear Burlycon and all of my friends and compatriots attending this weekend, I am immensely pleased to share these days with you and I hope we make some very fond memories together.

Loves!

~ Fosse Jack

Fosse's Journal; Burlycon 2011, Friday

2011-10-24T12:43:00.000-07:00

Day two of Burlycon draws to its close. Still the evening is not yet spent, for I will shortly leave the relative comfort of my hotel room and head out to the evening’s Peer Reviews. I am particularly excited for this.

Today I had the opportunity to immerse myself in the educational activities of the Con. I began my day an 8am with a workout and dance session with DANCEBELT members Ruby Mimosa and Inga Ingénue. The class was fun, and a good way to get going in the morning.

From there I went straight to the day’s history class. Scott Ewalt, a man who has been involved with burlesque since he was twenty and fresh faced in NYC, shared his passion for the art form and in this particular case for the male aspects of burlesque. I didn’t realize that the male side of the art form had such a rich history, dating back to the 1890s and Henry Dixie! Scott’s slideshows and his intimate knowledge of the subject were intoxicating, and immensely challenging. I could have sat there for hours more, and I have MUCH more to do.

After a shower, and a light breakfast would be a PANEL on Touring Shows (very informative) and a class taught by Miss Rosie Bits (gosh, she is just adorable!) about Getting Sponsorships (very encouraging!), followed by a bit more time helping out the Burlycon staff at Merch.

The Keynote address, attended by a large portion of those at the convention brought Indigo Blue, Scott Ewalt, Miss Astrid and living legend Ellion Ness. There were moments of tender remembrance for those performers who have been lost recently, and a great deal of encouragement given to those in the hall. Ellion was particularly touching as she got all flustered with joy. It is so amazing to me to see the legends that are still with us. Our fore-mothers and such, those who have helped to truly define the burlesque art form.

Tack on a VERY crowded class photo, and a fun and rather raucous parade to the pool (through some very confused hotel patrons), and you have the bulk of day two. The crowds would slowly make their way up to the canteen on the pent house floor and soon after begin to disperse. Very shortly now some will gather to review colleague’s performances and act in progress, and I am very much excited for this.

Well friends, I’m off. I fully intend to end up at Denny’s tonight so I will think of you when I am killing myself with chicken fried steak. :-P

Loves!

~ Fosse Jack

Fosse's Journal; Burlycon 2011, Saturday

2011-10-24T12:42:00.000-07:00

It is Saturday night and in the room above the bulk of the Burlycon attendees prepare for the evening festivity, the Neon Party. I find myself inclined to spend my evening in the hotel lounge, my netbook in my lap and spending some time in reflection. It’s not that I don’t like a good party, but I am fairly certain that the combination of neon-clad burlesquers and thumping dance music may be more than my sensually saturated psyche. ;-P

Today began with an excellent class by Waxie Moon. The exercises he showed us were simple acting tools about physical energy points and ways to ground ourselves. I have used similar exercises in acting before, but it was great to put them to work as a burlesquer. In fact I think these exercises an even more useful in non-verbal performance like strip tease. In any case, it was a lot of fun and an excellent refresher course.

From Waxie’s class I moved into the vastly crowded session with Kate Valentine AKA Miss Astrid. In a jam packed room we got to here from one of the movement’s best emcees. She echoed various sentiments that I have actually developed, which was encouraging. She did so in a fantastically matter of fact, and witty fashion. Just listening to her teach I can see why she is such an excellent emcee. She knows her job, does her job, and is not afraid to speak her mind, and all the while she is the model of professionalism.

From Miss Astrid’s class I moved back to the Burlycon merch table where I proceeded to struggle against insetting lethargy, while chatting with Ruby Mimosa, J Von Stratton and other vendors. It was an entertaining afternoon, if a bit slow.

I got to visit my favorite ladies, Sinner Saint Burlesque at hospitality with Lady Tatas made me feel terribly naughty by giving the Eucharist in her sexy-Madonna, Mother of God, outfit. There may have been some shirtless time among a handful of the boy-lesk boys, instigated by David Bishop (the Bishop of Burlesque), and maybe some naughty pics with a bunch of “Virgin Marys.”

Lydia McLane’s class on book keeping was extremely informative and made me realize just how disorganized I am as a business person. I got to know Lydia a bit more as we worked together on blowing up balloons for tonight’s party. Finally I stopped into peer reviews and caught a few acts before my need for supper drove me to Jack in the Box.

All in all the day has been excellent. I am tired, but in a good way. Tomorrow I will wake up early to catch Dancebelt’s next class and then it on to class and some final work time at the merch table. I look forward to posting my “journal” entries when I get home tomorrow, but even more, I am excited to spend just a little more time with the friends I’ve made these past few days.

Loves!

~ Fosse Jack

Fosse's Journal; Burlycon 2011, Sunday

2011-10-24T12:40:00.001-07:00

And so Burlycon 2011 is complete. I could sit and talk all about how wonderful and amazing the experience was, but that will have to wait for another entry. For now I shall I continue with my simple journal entries.

The day began with Dancebellt’s Madonna workout, where we learned Vogue. Okay, so I didn’t enter pop music till the late nineties so I missed a lot of Madonna, and I hope I won’t be stoned when I say the first time I heard Vogue was at this workshop. :-P Anyway, Ruby and Inga were, as always, awesome teachers and I very much enjoyed the show and have some new choreo to play with!

After this I skipped across the hall for the first bit of Waxie Moon’s dynamic staging. I couldn’t stay for the whole thing as that class period was the only time I had to pack before working merch that afternoon. Still what little I sat through was just amazing! I love seeing tools I learned for other art forms being applied to burlesques, but as Waxie said burlesque is just dance, acting and sex so it makes sense that acting tools are so easily applied!

After this I packed my bag and lugged them to the vendor rooms. Aside from a few crazy bursts, the afternoon was fairly slow so I got a chance to bond with some of the vendors; Ruby, Jamie, Foxy Tann and the others.

Then it was off to the Closing Ritual, a moving event that was both sentimental, reverent, silly and truly touching. In a phrase it was “bittersweet and frosted.” (Imagine a DARK chocolate cupcake with pink caramel icing.) I won’t go through the details, sometimes you can only understand by experience, but I will say I got to share some beautiful intimate moments with some amazing performers. At the end I walked away with encouragement to continue my work as a performer and perhaps more importantly as a producer. The need that was I was given by one of my peers was the need to provide opportunity to performers, and perhaps in other ways to put myself out there and perform elsewhere as well. I am motivated!

Then I joined the staff and remaining volunteers to breakdown Burlycon. Breakdown had the sense of making the bed after an amazing night of passionate love making, and snuggling with you lover… tender and satisfying. I parted ways with Burlycon after many hugs and thanks and smiles, and I will always treasure this weekend and work my hardest to live up to what the community needs of me!

Loves!

~ Fosse Jack

Burlesque, Autumn 2011, Recital

2011-10-16T17:55:00.000-07:00

Last night saw a new class of performers graduate from Miss Indigo Blue’s Academy of Burlesque. As per the course, some of these performers will simply move on, post their diplomas on their walls and giggle when they remember it, others will continue on and join the active ranks of Seattle’s burlesque community. Whether they go on to perform elsewhere or not, each of these performers should be proud of their performances last night.

I could go through the list and recap the entire show, but honestly considering the size of this particular class that could constitute an entire series of articles. Instead I will focus on the “honor students” and their performances.

The first I want to mention is Aurora Airyolas, the performer I will lovingly dub “Class Clown.” Her act to Brick House by The Commodores was by far the most fun of the evening, and reminded me of something you might have seen on Pee-Wee Herman’s Playhouse… only not creepy, and ridiculously sexy.

Unlike other performances I have seen to this song, Aurora provided a literal interpretation, and for the first third of the act was actually a dancing brick house in bellbottoms and platforms… imagine a disco version of Baba Yaga’s Hut. Her choreo was crisp and well executed, and her energy fun and over the top. It was ridiculous in a Saturday morning cartoon way and I loved every moment of it.

Performer Blithe Night earns Fosse’s Fan-Boy Honor of “Salutatorian”. Her act was slow, drawn out and she held the audience (and Mis/ter Waxie Moon!) rapt. I am not typically interested in “gore-lesque” but Blithe’s serial killer act was pretty awesome. I love it when performers take their time, and really dominate the audience and that is what Blithe did.

Every move was calculated, and there was nothing superfluous. Her choreography was simple but well executed and the images she evoked were chilling. The innocence of the blonde in white, the world “Velma Kelly” esque brunette in black silk, and the washing of the hands gave the whole things the feel of Dexter meets American McGee’s Alice. Loved it!

The honor of Fosse’s Fan-Boy “Valedictorian” goes to performer Nikola Tease-La. Aside from having the cleverest name in the class (in my opinion), Nikola had the stage mastery and polish that bumped her to the top of the class. Her timing and choreography were spot on, and though her sexy science experiment was nothing new conceptually her execution was one of the best I’ve seen.

On a side note, she also had a fantastic recovery on stage, after falling off one of her heels, she rolled through it, continued the number and deftly kicked her remaining shoe off when appropriate. Turning a potential dangerous accident on stage into a part of the choreography takes talent and I was super impressed. (I only know it was a accident when comparing first and second performances, but brava diva!)

Honorable mentions have to be made as well. Angelina Allure’s performance to Maneater had the best revel of the evening and Crimson Royale’s popcorn number was the kitschy-est and Crimson herself had some of the best audience contact moments.

Again, every performer last night should be proud of their work, and of the standing O they received at the end of the second show. Know that your tutors were glowing with pride last night (gotta love seats next to the teachers!) To those of you who go on to work as performers in Seattle and beyond allow me to wish you a heartfelt “Merde Mes Amis!”

Loves!

~ Fosse Jack

PS: I LOVE Miss Indigo Blue as a Emcee. She is so good!

The Burlesque Social Club @ Velvet

2011-10-04T09:44:00.000-07:00

Last night brought the inaugural session of the Burlesque Social Club at Velvet! It was an intimate affair with Velvet owner, Michelle, Fuschia FoXXX, Piston Chambers, Kitty Baby, Sir Eddie Van Glam and myself. Two others, Karen and Autumn showed up later. It was simple, low-key, low-stress and a lot of fun. We got cozy on a comfy couch, sipped wine and PBR and munched on popcorn while watching Kitty’s pick, The Producers (the musical re-make with Nathan Lane and Matthew Broderick).

The opinion at the end of the night was summed up by a unanimous, goofy grin, and considering the emotional state the event was intended to evoke, I would call the Club meeting a success. Fuschia, Michelle (and myself) are hoping that the club will take off, and grow. Velvet is ideal for intimate events but the unique atmosphere of the space channels energy in a positively intoxicating way. The more people we get together, the sweeter the buzz!

The meeting also provided a chance for some informal networking and for some industry education. Kitty Baby shared her connection with a burlesque Legend, Novita. We watched a clip of Novita’s very first burlesque number; a b&w film of a night club floor show. It was fascinating… and a little funny. Floor show chorus girls are rarely Follies caliber. Notvita however was splendid and I am thankful to Kitty for introducing me to a bit of burlesque history. Awesome!

So ladies and gents, let me just say that I hope you get a chance to attend the Burlesque Social Club. For now we are planning to go ahead and meet on a weekly basis (hosts' schedules and time permitting), and so the next opportunity you have is NEXT Monday night. I’m not sure what the film du jour will be but I bet there will be a couple of options! Whatever it is, it’s gonna be a lot of fun! (And I'm going to make cookies!)

Hope to see you at Velvet!

Loves!

~ Fosse Jack

The Beebo Brinker Chronicles (Play Review)

2011-09-18T12:59:00.000-07:00

On Thursday, October 15th “queer” history came to life at The Re-Bar. The Beebo Brinker Chronicles opened to an enthusiastic house that included Queen of Lesbian Pulp Fiction, Ms. Ann Bannon, herself. Featuring the talents of Rhonda J. Soikowski as Beebo, Polly Wood as Laura, Tom Stewart as Jack, Christopher Dodge as Charlie, and Opal Peachy as Beth with appearances by producers Cherry Manhattan, Sasha Summer Cousineau and Donna Stewart, The Beebo Brinker Chronicles, is a hot and sexy piece of dramatic camp.

Okay, so what exactly is “dramatic camp”? You know it took me awhile to figure that out but if you go to the show with that descriptor in mind if will save you a touch of confusion. The show walks a fine line between real and over the top. This was off putting (for me) at first. A “drama queen” at heart, I like having my heart tugged on at shows, and the back and forth took me by surprise. Still when I realized, “Duh! This is pulp fiction” it all made sense. It is a genre of art we are no longer familiar with and to see it on stage, well it took a few scenes to get used to. Still once you’re on that train with Laura, the ride is pretty smooth.

The show started off with a classic “noire” scene between the characters of Beth and Laura. Laura wants Beth to run away with her, and Beth leaves her for Charlie. This ‘betrayal’ sets the story in motion and the unresolved romance will haunt both characters through the next nine years. We see the first repercussions of this in some fairly intense dramatic scenes between Beth and her husband, Charlie. Beth is a confused, closeted lesbian, who in my opinion is little more than a selfish child. Charlie is a caring if naïve, all-American boy who knows his wife is ‘queer’ but has hoped throughout their marriage that his love and their children would be enough to hold her. As the story unfolds we find this is not the case.

Immediately however, the show shifts from drama to light hearted camp. We are introduced to Laura and Jack, and shortly after to Beebo. T. Stewart as Jack is an over the top eccentric and interesting contrast to the seriousness of his “Mother.” Polly Wood as Laura is a serious tortured soul, caught up in her romanticized college relationship with Beth, and at the same time coming into an awareness of her sexuality. Soikowski as Beebo is charming, boyish and in a word incorrigible. The three form a sort of ‘love’ triangle, and through the rest of the play the journey and changing relationships provides the major story arc.

Producers Cherry, Sasha and Donna all make appearances in the show. The scene between Marcie (Cherry) and Laura was heart wrenching (and I am told spoke deeply to a number of young lesbians in the crowd), Donna as Lili was a total scene stealer (loved it!), and Sasha as a tortured lesbian author was smoldering, callous, calculating and terribly funny. Each added some wonderful moments in the play, providing motivation for growth and change.

The primary actors each brought talent and heart to the table. Rhonda was delightful, sexy, pitiable and frustrating all where she needed to be. Erin drew the audience in, and really made them feel. Opal expertly portrayed the frustrated, slightly unstable, and childish Beth. Her performance was fine enough that I didn't much care for her by the end of the night, and I really should get to know her because I understand she is actually a lovely person! It was easy to sympathize with Christopher's Charlie. BTW, Christopher also played the character of Burr, and his portrayal of both the positive and negative sides of the naive/egotistical straight boy was nicely done. As a certified "Dutch Boy" I relate with the character of Jack, and though I would have liked him to easy up on the bluster once in awhile, I enjoyed Tom's take on Jack.

The play itself is not a perfect construct. It is three books condensed into a two hour production; and as such, there are gaps that I wanted filled, character development I wanted elaborated on, etc. I’d like to see someone take the source material and put it on the screen, a mini-series would be appropriate… someone pitch it to HBO. With the exception of the ladies in this production no one does staged sex better (and yes there are some hot sex scenes in the play). The staging and sporadic narrative bits gave the play a sort of graphic novel feel that I found very interesting and intentional or not, approaching each scene like a graphic “panel” was smart. Kudos Katjana, for choice or instinct!

At its heart The Beebo Brinker Chronicles is about growing up through heart break. Laura matures through the loss of Beth, her experience with Marcie, the trials with Beebo and relinquishing her stubborn self-dependence. Beebo matures, when for the first time in her life she experience lasting love than suffers true loss. And Beth, well… the play ends with the hope that Beth too can grow, and learn from her own heartbreak.

Ladies and gentlemen, I do hope you get a chance to see The Beebo Brinker Chronicles, playing at The Re-Bar every weekend through October 9th. It has the power to make you laugh, cry, and most importantly to remember and think. As Ms. Bannon shared in her post-performance address to the audience, this play and the passion its members bring to it would have shown her friends who had struggled through the real life trials of 1950/60s gay life, that their hardships would not be forgotten and perhaps even been worth it. We are not where we need to be, but we are worlds apart from where we were. That is thanks to people like Ann Bannon and the women (and men) she knew in her youth. Brava divas!

Loves,

Fosse Jack

PS: I wish that Stage Manager, Leslie Manning was in the Re-Bar booth more often. The technical aspects of the show went off without a visible hitch.

The Burlesque Social Club!

2011-09-08T09:13:00.000-07:00

Bonjour Mes Ames! Gutten Tag Meine Freunde! ‘Ello Mates!

I am really excited about a new weekly event that is coming up at the beginning of October. I’ve been given the opportunity to help put this puppy onto the course and I’d love to have you be a part of it! The Burlesque Social Club “produced” by Miss Fuchsia FoXXX, is going to happen every Monday night at Velvet in SoDo.

Have you heard about Velvet? Wow, so much to tell. Okay, so Velvet is a new private club just south of Safeco Field and it is going to be THE new hot spot in Seattle. A constantly evolving piece of reclaimed industrial history, Velvet is raw sensuality incarnate: rough, hard wood floors, bare beams, sexy art and antique finishes and all of it dripping with red velvet, silks and lace. It’s like walking into a New Orleans bordello or Old Seattle ‘seamstress’ abode. If my descriptions aren’t enough consider this, Fuchsia FoXXX helped design it. Sexy huh? No, seriously y’all it’s awesome.

Velvet’s going to be having some pretty cool events coming up, so I highly recommend checking them out! www.velvetstage.com. Also, look them up on Facebook!

Okay so now you know where it is, I guess I should explain more about what it is. Well simply put its “Fancy People Relaxing.” The hardworking girl that she is, Fuchsia knows that there is a definite need for folks in our community to have a retreat, a place for performers to just hang out. I LOVE working, doing shows, getting ready for shows, etc but a big part of that love is the people I work with. It’s you!

Now because we are all a bunch of workaholics (often broke workaholics), setting aside time and money to go out and socialize is not always on our priority list. Fuchsia and Velvet would like to change that.

The Burlesque Social Club is a day of the week set aside for socializing, talking shop, informal networking, hanging out, or just relaxing with friends, all in a really awesome space. Fuchsia is lining up ‘entertainment’ in the form of “Performers’ Picks” movie nights. Whether it’s a community showing of a local work, a piece of historical burlesque or artistic inspiration, you’ll get to see some local artist’s favorite films. I mean what better way to watch “A Wink And A Smile,” “Waxie Moon,” some classic Betty Page, or really anything, then with a group of burlesquers?

That’s the point of The Burlesque Social Club. It is an event FOR burlesquers and those that love them. It’s for you! And the kicker is that there’s NO COVER. Seriously, Velvet is opening its doors to the community. There will be some complimentary beverages, some snacky type food, and lots of awesome folk.

The Burlesque Social Club goes up on Monday, October 3rd and is going to happen every Monday afterwards! Again, that’s October 3rd, 6:00pm (movie at 7:30pm) @ Velvet; 1700 1st Ave South (it’s on the second floor, so more details to come about getting up there). Show up, hang out, chit-for-chat, and then will watch a movie! What movie you may ask? Well to get us started we’ll have Miss Kitty Baby sharing one of her favorites!

Loves!

~ Fosse Jack

Upcoming Shows: Sinner Saint Burlesque

2011-08-29T12:09:00.000-07:00

My name is Jim and I’m a Furry.

You might say that the first step in exploring your kinks is to admit you have them. I’m gonna admit the hell out of mine!

I’m a Furry. I use words like yiff, yiffy, scritch, pounce, paw and furpile. I have a fursona, a fictional incarnation of my inner critter. His name is Ash, and he’s a Vulpine. I think Anthros are sexy. When gene-tech is advanced enough I am seriously considering getting a tail, an upswept little number that matches my hair… the verdict is still out on the sheath… that’s a bit more ‘re-constructive’ than I’m ready to tackle.

Anyways, do you get it? Do you understand what a Furry is? Do they scare you? Well they shouldn’t because we aren’t scary. We’re a friendly bunch, and for the most part are yiffers not fighters.

If you understand my kink, you’ll better understand my excitement as I recommend Sinner Saint Burlesque’s next show: ANIMALIA!

SSB first performed the show about a year and a half-ago and my boyfriend and I went to see it (Qevin’s a total Furry too). We loved it. Seeing some of my favorite ladies rocking fur, feathers, scales and what have you, will be something I will always remember, and my tail is wagging furiously at the thought of seeing this show again.

From Jesse Belle-Jones’ purr-worthy, puma, to Lady TaTas delightfully goofy flamingo, and Polly Wood’s adorable fruit bat, to Dona de Couri’s own take on history, and Evilyn Sinclaire’s celebrity impersonation, it’s gonna be a yifftastic furpile of burlesque babes!

What’s even cooler is that, according to my intel, Flirty Sanchez is hosting this run. If you haven’t seen Flirty host, you should! She is amazing and I am really looking forward to seeing what she comes up with. Will she rock an inner critter? I hope so, cause I want to see what hers is! I’m thinking Coyote, personally but we shall see!

So ladies and gentlemen, friends and lovers, I do hope you get to see Sinner Saint Burlesque Present ANIMALIA! It opens this Thursday night, 9:30pm and will run for several weeks at The Noc Noc, Downtown. (Tixs are $15 at the Door.)

Scritches!

Fosse Jack

Behind the Scarlet Curtain - Beebo Brinker Pulp Cabarets

2011-08-28T16:25:00.000-07:00

I sit in the empty room of ACT’s Bullitt Cabaret. I am early. It is not unusual, I’ve been early all my life. I like it this way. I like the chance to sit in a lonely room, with only the shadows of performances gone by to keep me company. It is a special time for me, who so longs to be among others, to find peace in a moment of solitude.

I think back on last night, the opening of this wonderful cabaret series I have had the fortune to be a part of. I think back to the laughter, the cheers and applause, and most gratifyingly the rapt silence. It is a wonderful thing to remember. It is not solely what is on stage however, that will make these memories special. It is the interactions backstage that I cherish above all. To have moments with those I love, and moments where I come to love others, is a blessing that in this uncertain age is more precious than petroleum.

From snuggling with my dear friend Polly Wood on the chaise backstage, to talking shop with Jesse Belle-Jones and Lady Tatas, enjoying some mutual “love, love” with Diva Le Diviant, and getting to know one of my burlesque idols, Ms. Lilly Verlaine, I will always treasure the memories of the Beebo Brinker Cabarets!

(written on 26 August 2011)

The experience with Beebo Brinker, first at Re-Bar and then this past weekend at ACT, has been a wonderful blessing in my life. Through it I have come to know individuals within the community better, come to see friends become dear friends, and learned more of and participated in ‘queer history.’

In meeting Ms. Ann Bannon last night, I was introduced to a part of history that I had never before known. Yes I have known older gay men, but they have rarely spoken of those days. Perhaps it is harder for them to remember. But to meet a pioneer, a woman strong enough and brave enough to at first be a part of it, and then to relive it, that is truly special.

I would like to thank Katjana, Donna and Sasha for this amazing opportunity. I would like to thank Leslie and Lauren, and our Stage Kittens for all of their hard work. I would like to thank Donna and Rhonda for making our scene HOT, and I would like to thank everyone who came to see the show. It would not have been possible without you. Thank you all, and thank you to the wonderful performers who shared this opportunity with me: Fuschia, Lily, Polly, Jesse, Tatas, Angel, EmpeROAR, and everyone else.

Finally, I must thank Ann for having the courage to do what she did. Because of you and those like you, I need not feel ashamed of the Love that I CAN name.

Loves!

~ Fosse Jack

Upcoming Shows: rePRODUTION!

2011-08-16T12:31:00.000-07:00

As you know this has been a chaotic year of hesitant steps forward (DADT) and racous slides backward (just about everything else Congress has pulled). Now in the "American spirit" of rebellious-getting things done-ness, a local powerhouse team of producers: Heidi VonHaught, Randi Rascal and Wiggy Stardust are producing a burlesque benefit for Washington's NARAL Pro-Choice, the state's leading pro-choice advocacy group.

This evening of burlesque and raunchy political satire is in response to recent infringements upon the sexual and reproductive freedoms made by legislaters this past year. Specifically: the legal redefinition of rape and incest; changes in legislation that encourage violence against abortion providers and allow for misinformation regarding birth control options; and attempts to strip health care providers such as Planned Parenthood of their funding.

The line-up is as diverse as it is talented. Bella Bijoux, Evilyn Sin Claire, Heidi Von Haught, Iva Handful, Jenny Penny, Randic Rascal, The Shanghai Pearl, Wiggy Stardust and Reigning Queen of Burlesque 2011, Miss Indigo Blue are the ladies that will be heling you stay a "breast" of current events, politics and reproductive controversies. Tiny Reedlet's Sexy Puppet Parade will be there (puppet sex!). And representing the men will be Sylvester Stiffbreeze and the incomparable ladies' man, the myth, the mustache Mr. Ernie Von Schmaltz.

Wow, there are some hot, hot, hotties in this lineup! From the only woman ever to make me want to sit back on my haunches and beg for a treat, to the glam-rock wet dream goddess, to My Leige and Lady? Yikes. Gosh, not to mention Sylvester (ladies' I'm envious), and Ernie (I bow before you sir!); this is going to be a crazy show.

And like I said it is for a great cause. Defending freedom its Seattle Burlesque!

From the makers of That F*cked Up, comes rePRODUCTION! and it is coming up soon, this Friday, August 19th at Theatre off Jackson (ToJ is the place to be this weekend). The show starts at 8:00pm. Tickets available at http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/190010

Loves!

~ Fosse Jack

Upcoming Shows: Under Construction

2011-08-13T12:32:00.000-07:00

Next Saturday night, at Theatre off Jackson, Discontinued Trim Productions presents a new show that brings together some of Seattle’s hottest fresh faces and established entertainers. This show, called Under Construction, is a mix of burlesque, aerial performance, Bollywood dance (seriously y’all!) and more. As its name implies the show is about performers building, renovating and remodeling themselves. It should be pretty awesome.

Producer and performer, Iva Handfull is the sensuous smarts behind the show, and I am supper excited to see her bring together these artists. Tamara the Trapeze Lady, Pinky Shines, and Elsa Von Schmaltz represents some Seattle’s sexiest senoras, while Lotti Glitterati, Solange Corbeau and Sir Eddie Van Glam are some of the young guns just starting to make some noise on the scene.

Other performers include: Host Rebecca M. Davis, Nikolai Pirak (he’s one sexy juggler!), and Rebella Revolver. Hottie McNaughty, Foxglove, Renten, Vanadium Silver and Peter McCarthy will also be making appearances.

And if a bunch of superheated mammas, glittery girlies, and hunky boy toys all showcasing their tantalizing talents is enough to get you out to ToJ, then consider the veritable cornucopia of rhinestoned goodies you could shop for! Haute Under the Collar, TwirlyGirl, The Epic Bath and Kelly Brownlee Illustrations will all be vending at this event!

Again, Theater Off Jackson, Saturday August 20th 8pm-10pm show (doors at 7pm). Get you tickets early at: http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/188971 or just hit the ticket booth on your way in!

Loves!

~ Fosse Jack

Ask Fosse Jack: Burlesque Etiquette

2011-08-12T16:49:00.000-07:00

Dear Fosse Jack,

Last night I went to a great burlesque show in Seattle. The performers were working really hard and were really sexy! But it was really hard for me to enjoy the show because the audience was so rude! There were like four parties going on and they wouldn’t stop talking. One large group came in late, made a lot of noise and walked out early. Is there anything you can say to burlesque audiences in Seattle to get them to exhibit some form of common courtesy?

Sincerely,

Disappointed In Seattle Spectators' Egregious Disrespect

Dear DISSED,

I agree whole heartedly. There is nothing more disappointing than a good show being hijacked by bad audiences. That being said, I want to assure you that your experience while more common than it should be, is not the Seattle norm. For the most part, Seattle audiences, while more casual and listless than other cities’ theatre going crowds, are relatively polite. They may be hard to get vocally excited, but they appreciate the work performers do on an internal level.

As to your request, I do have some things to tell the average audience member, here in Seattle. The first is a reminder, courtesy of Firefly's Shepherd Book, that there is a very special level of hell, “A level they reserve for child molesters and people who talk at the theater.” Remember Jesus is in the room with you, and he doesn’t like it when your antics distract him from the hot girls and boys taking their clothes off on stage.

This brings me to a comparison. Burlesque is just like any other form of theatrical performance. Yes we take off our clothes. You might talk and be rude to the hard working boys and girls that work at “strip joints” but you are not in a strip joint. You are in a theatrical venue. It may not be as grand as the opera, or the ballet, but it is a theatrical performance none the less. Burlesque performers work hard to produce the product you buy. And just like buying a meal in a restaurant doesn’t give you the right to be ass-holes to your servers, buying a ticket to a show doesn’t give you the right to be douche bags either.

My advice to the aspiring burlesque spectator is to behave like you would in your crazy aunt’s Pentacostal church. Sit or stand when appropriate. Cheer (hell, say amen) loudly when the spectacle evokes it. I would avoid speaking in tongues, most Seattle-ites frown on that, but if the spirit moves you, show your appreciation raucously. Don’t chat with your neighbor, girlfriend, etc when the one up front is talking, singing, telling a humorous anecdote or taking off their clothes. It is rude, and you will, eventually, burn for it.

I hope this helps DISSED, and do feel free to show this to your friends and anyone you feel like taking with you the next time you go to one of Seattle’s glittering plethora of burlesque performances.

Loves!

~ Fosse Jack

Do you have a question for Fosse Jack? Feel free to e-mail them to fossejack@gmail.com

Upcoming Show: The Best of Beebo Brinker at ACT

2011-08-11T16:18:00.000-07:00

I am tickled pink to announce that I have been asked to join the stellar cast for The Beebo Brinker Chronicles' three night engagement at ACT. First, as an actor, performing at ACT is an awesome milestone for me. Second, as a burlesquer working with this crowd again makes me feel like a total pro.

For those of you who have not made it to the Beebo Brinker Pulp Cabarets over the past four months, this is you chance to see the best and sexiest acts that have been put together as part of the six-month ongoing theatrical event.

OMG, I just realized that I'll be in the same show as Lily Verlaine! Meep! I'll have to remember to bring a paper bag, cause I just my hyperventilate back stage.

Okay, so back to the main course of this dish. Headliner Fuschia FoXXX will be there, as will several of the cast members of the actuall play, The Beebo Brinker Chronicles, including Rhonda Soikowski (Beebo Brinker) and Polly Wood (who will be playing Laura). As Beebo Brinker, Rhonda is one sexy butch. I mean, she reved my engine a little and thats saying something. As for Miss Polly Wood; words cannot express how excited I am to see my dear friend on stage in an acting role again.

The performer list also includes my fairy godmother, the Sexual Intellectual, Jesse Belle-Jones, the Debutante of Derriere, Lady TaTas, and the Exposing Composer, EmpeROAR Fabulous!!! Of course the glitter soaked trifecta of producers: Diva la Diviant, Lyla Le Coeur and Cherry Manhatten will be strutting their stuff. I did mentiion Lily Verlaine, didn't I. Swoon.

As for my involvement, come see an encore reading of hot lesbian sex as voiced by a pseudo-twinkie gay male. I mean come on, how often to you get so get to see something like that?

It's coming up soon friends. Three nights at ACT, August 25th, 26th and 27th. Hope to see y'all there!

Loves!

~ Fosse Jack

Behind the Scarlet Curtain: Beebo Brinker

2011-07-29T13:09:00.000-07:00

Last night, I had the amazing opportunity to be a part of the Beebo Brinker Pulp Cabaret at The Re-Bar. Producers, Diva le Diviant, Lyla la Coeur, and Cherry Manhattan invited me to prodvide the voice to the character of Jack Mann, Beebo Brinker's lesbian-savvy gay male friend. It was a great honor to be a part of this ongoing theatrical event, and I am excited to see the events coming up in August (a three night engagement at ACT!) and September (the premier of the Beebo Brinker Chronicles).

This show marked a milestone in my burlesque career, as my first appearance on The Re-Bar stage (well the first performance... my first time on that stage was getting frisked by Tricky Dick, ;-P) and the experience was super exciting. The talent that I worked with last night was amazing. Jasper McCann, Polly Wood, Trojan Original, Miss Elaine Yes, and more. I loved every moment backstage. The sense of camaradiere in this community is genuine and heart warming, and I am constantly humbled by the talent that surrounds me.

That being said, I am constantly amazed at how technically challenged The Re-Bar can be. Every show that I've seen there has suffered from sound and lighting 'malfunctions'. It makes me so mad to see people I respect and care for watch their hard work crumble when a music cue is fumbled, or they are left in the dark. As I have already said though, I am part of an awesome group of professionals who handle said malfunctions beautifully... I just wish they didn't have to deal with this sort of sloppiness every time.

Ok, that's off my chest... back to the otherwise positive experience.

The 'dressing room' was exactly how I imagine old cabarets, and jazz clubs being like. Buzzing with performers getting ready, mirrors scattered haphazardly, chairs, couches and tables along the red, gold flecked walls, and an atomosphere filled with grity-romantic energy. It was thrilling, and I could barely contain my excitement.

The crowd was large and excited, the energy in the bar intoxicating, and the response at the end was thoroughly satisfying. (Lily Verlaine complimented me! Swoon!) The scenes that Lyla la Coeur, Rhonda Soikowski and I performed together went over very well. The over the top physicality, and hot girl on girl action provided by these two beautiful women, were definite crowd pleasers... as were The Trojan Original's efforts to distract me during the second reading. Good Lord, my knees nearly buckled when he grabbed my hair. Haha!

I am super excited to see more of the Beebo Brinker events. August 25th, 26th and 27th at the Central Heating Lab, ACT are the dates for the Best of the Cabarets! Fuschia FOXXX, Polly Wood, Jesse Belle Jones, EmpeROAR Fabulous!!! and Miss Lily Verlaine will all be performing. Then in September the crew returns to The Re-Bar for the Seattle Premiere of The Beebo Brinker Chronicles (a play!) staring Rhonda Soikowski as Beebo Brinker, with Polly Wood as Laura. It is going to be awesome!

Loves!

~ Fosse Jack

Upcoming Shows: Ready for the Rapture...

2011-07-27T17:16:00.000-07:00

Remember back in May (or was it April... I can't remember, meh) when we were told that the world was going to end? Remember how, the prophet who declared the end, shrugged and said he must of gotten the math wrong when it didn't happen? Well ladies and gentlemen, wether or not you remember that I hope you remember this show coming up in just a couple of weeks.

Ready for the Rapture: The Second Coming of the Second Coming is brought to you by K.A.O.S Art's Collective, including Seattle burlesque-maeven Evilyn Sin Claire. The show promises to be a wild night of strip tease, circus arts, and something about a wizard? (I'm intrigued.) The spectacular line up of talent includes: Inga Ingenue, The Harlequin Hipsters, Evilyn Sin Claire, Randi Rascal, Polly Wood, Lady Tatas, Whisky Bliss, and Jenny Penny. K.A.O.S. is particularly excited to have Seattle boylesque legend, ULTRA, performing for this one night engagement.

Wait... a show about the end of the world, (apocalypse, Age of Aquarious, Mayan calendar, etc) with the Wild Child herself at the creative helm? This could be seriously intense. And looking at the performers, I think the intensity might just rock the world; well at the very least it is going to rock The Re-Bar and all of the party animals that attend.

Ready for the Rapture is a labor of love, for Evilyn, and all of the performers with K.A.O.S, a group consisting of fire performers, circus artists, metal workers, visual artists, DJs and party catalysts. The proceeds of this show will go to repairing, and outfitting the collective's van, "The Kackle" for its upcoming trip to the 2011 Burning Man Festival "Rites of Passage."

Date: AUGUST 5th, 2011

Time: Doors 7:30pm, Show 8pm, 21+

Place: Re-Bar
Advanced Tickets: Only $12! ($15 VIP)

http://www.strangertickets.com/events/3562252/ready-for-rapture

At the Door: $15 / $20 VIP

It looks like this sucker is going to be party central on August 5th, and the expected turn out continues to grow. If you want to attend, I highly recommend buying tickets early.

Loves!

~ Fosse Jack

Melancholy Play by Sarah Ruhl; Seattle STAGEright

2011-07-17T11:22:00.000-07:00

On Friday night, local theatre company STAGEright celebrated the opening night of their fifth production; a delightfully absurdist comedy by playwright Sarah Ruhl. Melancholy Play both celebrates and pokes fun at a dying state of mind.

Today when a person sighs deeply, and spends long hours lying on a couch or staring out a window, we call them depressed and we medicate them. We do not value this bittersweet sadness that is a part of the human psyche. Melancholy makes happiness sweeter, joy more complete. When we cannot experience the darker side of human emotion how can we fully appreciate its brighter side? That being said, (and as one medicated for depression can attest to) we must realize that while necessary, melancholy is not a state that we should strive to maintain. Melancholy separates us from others, and this solitude can cause us in time to be so removed from our fellow humans that we may as well be 'almonds.' This is the message that Sarah Ruhl seems to be making in Melancholy.

Accompanied by the sweet sad sounds of the cello, played by Rachael Beaver, the cast of STAGEright's Melancholy Play sighs, cavorts, laughs, falls in love, falls out of love and experiences the full gamut of human emotion among a simple set of white windows hung against a black backdrop. A simple fainting couch, window bench and a couple of stools make up the remainder of the set. Lighting is subtle, and imperceptibly executed.

As Tilly, the melancholic maiden whose bittersweet sadness lures others to fall in love with her, Megan Tyrrell is natural in her sobriety. While this state seems to suit her, the others that fall into her dark world seem over the top in comparison, with Mike Jones, as Lorenzo the psychologist of "unspecified European" descent, as the master of campy melodrama.

An ongoing theme of the show is obsessive love. Jordan Melin, as Frank, and Anna Townes, as Frances, and the previously mentioned Lorenzo all fall in love with Tilly. This love seeks to consume the her. Her melancholy is a drug and they are addicts. Jenn Owen, as Joan, Frances' older partner, too comes to love Tilly, but their is more of a friendship of kindred spirits. Melancholy is a thing that experience teaches us, and Joan as the oldest of the characters may have already had her share. For the others it is a new thing and it is intoxicating.

Melancholy Play is playing at Freehold Theatre (2222 Second Avenue, Suite 200,Seattle, WA) one block south of The Rendezvous in Bell Town, with shows Friday (8pm), Saturday (8pm), and Sunday (5:30pm) through July 31st. Tickets are $15 and available at http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/178876.

Directed by Lexi Clements Deschambault, Melancholy Play is funny, it is campy, but it is also challenging. It dares us to feel like Tilly feels; both her sadness and her ecstasy. Do you dare? I hope you do!

Loves!

~ Fosse Jack

Sass Boom Bang Burlesque; Women At Work

2011-07-15T12:23:00.000-07:00

The Marsbar on Eastlake Ave E is not the last place I’d expect to find a burlesque show, though I was a bit skeptical when I first arrived. The venue is set up for live music, a rough stage, and hand wrapped sound tiles bolted to the walls in one corner, and I’m sure it is a great place to hear a local band play or maybe have an open mic event. As a burlesque venue it leaves something to be desired, still… if the ladies at Sass Boom Bang Burlesque continue to perform there they have a unique opportunity to play with the space.

Last night’s show, Women at Work, the ‘virginal’ performance of SBBB, was set up in cookie cutter presentational form, and in a venue like The Jewelbox, the Re-Bar, or other ‘theatrical’ space this format would have worked. It did not work as well here. The use of a simple dressing screen did little to ‘hide’ the performers, and I think it would have been better to lose it all together and embrace the fact that the audience can see you. Take your moment in the wings and flirt with the audience. The tease begins before you step foot on stage. It begins the moment you can see your target.

In a burlesque revue like this, the emphasis should be on the contributing individuals but remember that the format, the structure is the foundation upon which you build. (One suggestion, line up wise, I would recommend opening with Solange Corbeau… let teacher set the mood.)

As for the individual performers, Sass Boom Bang brings together fresh talent; young women with good ideas, talent and mixed levels of finesse/polish. A few of the acts left me wanting more, a few left me satisfied and one or two truly earned the hoots and hollers that we as burlesque artists strive to evoke.

Lotti Glitterati, whose concept was simple and execution beautiful, was a personal favorite. Lotti should be a poster girl for Indigo Blue’s Twirly Girl line of pasties. I mean it! She had those tassels going like a pro, in more ways than one. I also very much like the nonchalant attitude she had, “yeah I work with heavy machinery, got a problem with that.”

Scarlet O’Hairdye was also particularly strong, and clever. Working off partner, Bolt Action as the overwhelmed, well hung ‘wimp’, Scarlet was a crowd favorite as a boundaries challenged personal trainer. Her use of an exercise ball was particularly well liked.

As a cabaret singer, Olatsa Assin adds variety to the troupe; her sing and strip act blended class and camp. As a burlesque performer she has a strong, almost defiant energy; as a singer she has some definite pipes. Still I would like to see her find “Olatsa’s voice.” Once her persona as the Scintillating Scandinavian really takes shape she will secure her place in the burlesque community.

Host Luke Thighstalker, was clever and concise but will need to ditch the cue cards eventually. His jokes were witty, but would have seemed even wittier had he had them memorized. As a host balancing scripted and adlibbed banter is important (and difficult, believe me I know how tricky it is). Keep going and you will get a feel for filling the time your stage kittens need to clear and set up. Oh and don’t be worried about the time, the show was a bit less than an hour, start to finish, so stretching things out between outros and intros would be good.

As a troupe Sass Boom Bang has a good amount of potential. I think it will take them a couple of shows to really find their stride but for a first production Women at Work is pretty good. The audience (a pretty packed house!) was well entertained, and was forgiving of the few technical issues. If you are free this Saturday night, I think SBBB is worth checking out; and I hope you can get out sometime to support this group of gals.

Sass Boom Bang Burlesque Presents: Women At Work is playing for one more night at The Marsbar. Saturday, July 16th @ 9pm. Cover is $10. http://www.cafevenus.com/indexa.html

Loves!

Fosse Jack

Upcoming Shows: July

2011-07-03T10:58:00.000-07:00

July is chock-full of shows for the eager burlesque fan, so I thought I'd compile a list and give folks access to all the basic info in one place! Hope you like it it. Loves ~ Fosse Jack

VERSUS: "Our world is steeped with conflict. The injustices of reality have been mirrored in both mythological lore and comics of today." Heroes and Villians is the theme of Sinner Saint Burlesque's current show: VERSUS (play through August 11th). Evilyn Sin Claire, Jesse Belle-Jones, Lady Tatas, Polly Wood & Dona Dei Cuori will be joined by a rotating cast of guest hosts on Thursday nights at The NocNoc; 9:00pm-11:30pm. Tickets: $15

Intrigue: Summer Seduction: "an upscale night of dancing and drinking" "where the sweat turns to glitter and the surreal becomes real." These are descriptors posted by Seattle's Goddess of Glitter, Peresophone Illyri. Artists include: Evilyn Sin Clair, Whisky Bliss, and Boom Boom! L'Roux. Music and dancing to follow. Wednesday, July 13th @ Mona's Bistro & Lounge; 10:00pm-1:00am; Cover $7 (drink specials available).

Women At Work: One of Seattle's newest troupe, Sass Boom Bang presents this show of labouring ladies. Artists: Ginger Julip, Lotti Glitteratti, Mahogany Sparkles, Mimi Je Mange, Olatsa Assin, Scarlett O'Hairdye, Randi BoomBoom, and Violet DeVille. Thursday, July 14th AND Saturday, July 16th @ The Mars Bar/Cafe Venus; 8:00pm-10:00pm; tickets $10

Sideshow Sirens: A Valkyrie Peepshow: A "sinister and sensual peek behind the big top" presented by Minetta Lane & Violet Tendencies. Artists: Fannie Beaverhausen, La Petite Mort, Kutie LaBootie, Kylie Koyote, Tin Pan Sally (& The Shanghai Pearl), the Trojan Original, and Seraphina. With Candy Apples & Laela Lovechild. July 15th & July 22nd (with special guests Mercury Troy and Iva Handfull) @ The Jewelbox Theater/Rendezvous; 8:00pm. Tickets $15 @ http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event184343 or $18 at the door.

Whedonesque Burlesque: An evening of Joss Whedon Inspired Burlesque. Artists: Heidi Von Haught, Polly Wood, Mercury Troy, Miss Elaine Yes, Lexi Luthor, Sister Piston, Mae Kim Beg, Electric Fanny, Raven Mad, Rip Curl, Whisper De Corvo, Legs Montana, The Norse Goddess, Rachel Jackson, Miss LIttle Piza Paradise, Billy Corazon, The Fighting Women fo Performers' Forge, EmpeROAR Fabulous!!! July 15th, Theater Off Jackson (SOLD OUT)

Tempting Tarts Burlesque Presents: CIRCUS SIDESHOW SPECTACTULAR: Artists: Sailor St. Claire, Morgan LaMay, Bitsy Rini, Pepper Patootie, Le Jumeaux Faux, LuLu Bell, Rose A'Lee and special guests Vixen Valentine, Aaron Wheeler, and Persephone Illyri with host Dickie Gazoonie. Thursday, july 21st @ The Jewelbox Theater/Rendezvous; 7:00pm-10:00pm; ticket info available soon.

Stars and Garters: A Purple Devil Production, this "evening of bemused reverence, bawdy reflection, and perhaps a little smidgen of political commentary" is a burlesque/variety show themed on the USA, and patriotism. Artists: Miss Violet DeVille, Gams Galore, Octavie Sexton, Dahlia Ste. Cyr, Ms. Vixen Valentine, Miss Scarlet Marie, Mimi Je Mange, Fosse Jack (that's me!) and host Mitzy Sixx. Saturday, July 23rd @ The Jewelbox Theater/Rendezvous; 7:00pm; $15 at the door or, $12 https://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/182158.

Westside Burlesque Revue: The Skylark's monthly burlesque show, produced by Miss Whisper DeCorvo, and hosted by Mr. Bawdy will feature: Jacqueline Hyde, Sailor St. Claire, Pinky Shines, Deliria Du Laine, Scandal from Bohemia, Peitie Mort, Deb O Naire, Mikki and Boom Boom L'Roux. Thursday, July 28th; Skylark Cafe (West Seattle); 9:00pm; tickets $7 (I think).

Beebo Brinker Pulp Cabaret: The next installment of the six-month Beebo Brinker project will be on Thursday, July 28th @ The Re-Bar. This month will feature the talents of Polly Wood, the Trojan Original, and more! More information coming soon! (I'll be in this one!)

AFTERHOURS: Highlighting the 'seedier side' of burlesque, this show by Vixen Valentine and Beatrice Belladona will take place on Saturday, July 30th at The Jewelbox Theater/Rendezvous. More information to come. (I'll be in this one too!)

Melancholy Play: While not a burlesque show, this is a piece of fringe theater that I reccomend you see. Presented by Seattle STAGEright Theatre, this play by Sarah Ruhl, is about an irresistable melancholic and the people whose lives she touches. When she suddenly become happy it wreaks havoc in the lives of those around her. Opening July 15th @ Freehold Theater. Check out http://www.seattlestageright.org/ for more information.

*Do you have a show that I don't know about but want added to the list? Do you have projects coming up in future months that you want to add to future lists? Did I post incorrect information, or incomplete information? Please contact me at fossejack@gmail.com and I will be happy to alter the post or publish an update.

FREEDOM FANTASIA

2011-07-03T00:13:00.000-07:00

"A liberty encrusted, justice soaked, apple pie scented pagaent of patriotism." This is the tag line for Freedom Fantasia, a DeLaRue production, playing for just one more show at West Hall, Oddefellows Building. As the tag line suggests it is a spectacle of glitter, rhinestones, American flags, and more... so much more.

Burlesque as art, not in it's highest form but in it's most important one. That's is my heart felt response to this show. As entertainment it is superb, and if that's all you want out of it, you will love it. It is campy, gay, and energetic with fun, upbeat choreography excelently executed by a star spangled cast. But art does more than entertain, it makes a statement, it forces us to think, it challenges us. Like a fun house mirror held up before self importance, Freedom Fantasia distorts our view of history; showing us the truth behind the myth but doing so in such a way as to hide it from conscious perception. Okay, so maybe I'm letting my words get carried away, but it's true.

Producers BenDeLaCreme and Kitten LaRue have filled this funny, sexy, glittery show with stinging commentary. It pokes fun at the "blind patriotism" so often endorsed by the media, and clung to by much of America. It laughs at the concept of a "united" country, even calling out civil rights activists who want "their people" liberated but not necessarily "those people." It reminds us of the sad truth that all men (and women) are not yet equal in the eyes of the State. Finally it makes the statement that the true American spirit is that of the rebel, that as 'patriots' we should continue to be ourselves and live the ideals of equality and liberty, even when they aren't given to us... if that fails, we can always blow stuff up. (That song is going to be stuck in my head all night.)

BenDeLaCreme is witty, charming and bubbly; a hostess who just wants to wave Old Glory, and see life through star-spangled lenses. LaRue's character brings a biting cynicism, that adds a bitter note to the fluff, and her act at the end made me cringe in all the right ways. Cherdonna and Lou, Lucky Penny, Jim Kent, and Markeith Wiley are equal parts hilarious and impressive, showing off some mad dance skills. Major Scales, and Jinxk Monsoon ramp up the camp with their musical numbers. Furthermore, I have to say that Jinxk Monsoon... oh my God, girl, I think I'm in love. Those pipes are ... meep.

I truly wish this show was going on for another weekend, at least, because this is a MUST SEE in my book. It says what needs to be said, and it says it in the most fun way that it can think of. Laughter is a powerful medicine, and everyone needs a dose of this one.

Loves, Fosse Jack

Beebo Brinker Chronicles; June Pulp Cabaret

2011-07-01T15:15:00.000-07:00

The ongoing saga of the Beebo Brinker Chronicles continued last night at The Re-Bar, in the third of four Pulp Cabarets. This month’s show focused on the character of Beth, a woman who left her husband and children to be true to herself in New York City, and to seek her long lost lover, Laura. Instead of Laura, however, she finds Beebo. A lusty affair ensues. With author, Ann Bannon looking on, the cast of performers explored the themes of self discovery, denial, repression, self loathing and the ever present threat of legal repercussion against lesbians and other gay people during the 50s.

Cherry Manhattan as the hostess is charming, witty, and elegant. Lyla La Coeur’s emceed with a breathy sweetness that bordered on mischievous naiveté. The evening’s dramatic reading, narrating the meeting between Beth and Beebo was delivered by Miss Elaine Yes and acted out (in comic melodrama style) by Diva la Deviant and Randy Andy. Gun Street Glory, provided musical embellishments, and entertainment; and though the lead singer’s vocal style made me fear for her voice, her showmanship was impressive.

The evening’s other entertainments included burlesque by Violet Tendencies, Minetta Lane, Miss Kitty Baby, and Jess Belle-Jones. EmpeROAR Fabulous!!! offered an emotionally charged piece of spoken word poetry and Daddy-O channeled beatnik culture in a capella style. Finally, Fuschia FoXXX returned to the stage, bringing us back to the central themes of the show; overcoming self-loathing, and embracing the blurred lines of gender.

Something this time around that did not click as well as it did for me at the first cabaret, was the convention of introducing the performers as characters from the books. Whether it was the subject matter, or the writing, I’m not sure, but many of the introductions felt forced into place. It worked. It just didn’t flow as smoothly as it could have.

Still, the show was very well put together. It had a nice mix of style and art form; and it had some good comedy. It never quite reached the level of dramatic engagement where I felt like I was in that Greenwich Village speakeasy, but it was enough that I could forget I was sitting in a bar… until I picked up my pack and found it coated with someone’s spilled beverage. Meh.

The moral of the story? If you aren’t good to yourself, you are no good to anybody.

The Beebo Brinker project is an ongoing series of events that will continue next month with the final Pulp Cabaret. Following the cabaret series there will be an engagement at ACT’s Central Heating Lab of the best of the series, and will finally lead into the Seattle premiere of the theatrical adaptation of The Beebo Brinker Chronicles which will play at The Re-Bar in September-October.

Loves,

~ Fosse Jack

Go New York! or Marriage; The Foundation of Civilization?

2011-06-25T17:18:00.000-07:00

Allow me to take a moment and deviate from the purpose of this blog.

Yay New York! :-)

Ok, so same sex marriage doesn't have much to do with burlesque but a lot of burlesquers would like to have something to do with it, so I guess there is a connection. Where there will be a disconnect in this post is that my message is not to fans of burlesque but to the detractors of same sex marriage... a largely useless exercise because none of them read my blog. Meh. Still here we go.

Having grown up in a Christian home, and for a good part of my life having planned on becoming a Pastor, I have had a lot of contact with all sorts of people who lay claim to the title of Christian. Some are hate filled, biggoted jerks. Some are open minded, loving, and truly Christ-like individuals. Most are some where between those two. Unfortunately the biggoted jerks tend to be louder than the Christ-like Christians so guess where the majority lean towards? Well we all know this. The media is full of it. Even liberal Democrats get hung up on the rehtoric of some of these hard liners, at least where it comes to same-sex marriage.

"Oh it is fine if they want to be together..." (or in more vulgar terms - "I have no problem when boys or girls f*king each other...") "...but marriage is sacred and should be between a man and a woman!"

A number of these voice have shouted out in the wake of NY's legalization of same-sex marriage; Sen. Ruben Diaz for one (a Dem). The Catholic bishops of NY went so far as to release a statement saying that the law changes "radically and forever humanity's historic understanding of marriage." (Thank you NPR)

My response to them, as a gay man, an individual who grew up in a Christian home, AND and student who has studied Christian doctrine and theology for most of my life is a resounding: WTF mate?!

Seriously, do people have any idea what the historic understanding of marriage is? Hell, if it wasn't for Paul, Christianity would have died out years ago because Christians by the earliest tenants of the faith should be celibate. During the day of Jesus and before, marriage could exist between a man and really as many women as he could financially support. True custom (not doctrine) often limited this in some groups, but really the contemporary view of one man one woman marriage is less than two-thousand years old... hardly an historic view for "humanity".

And more where Christianity is concerened, Jesus openly distanced himself from marriage, claiming that marriage has no place in the Kingdom of Heaven. Why? Because when it boils down to it, marriage was, has been, and is still about property. Who owns what? Who owns whom? And according to Jesus, ownership is not part of Heaven.

The Church adopted a concession uttered by Paul in his regards to marriage and made it into divine edict, and now considers it God's design for marriage. Really Paul was just saying "not everyone is as good as me, so I guess you can get married... BUT keep it to one person, so as not to be ruled by lust." (He was SO a closested homosexual but that is a whole other discussion.)

Ok, so this is not an academic paper, more like an emotional rant, so forgive my all caps when I say, seriously guys, Christianity HAS NO CLAIM TO MARRIAGE! Get it? Marriage is a thing of the Earth, not of Heaven and as such keep theology out of it. If you want to live like God in Heaven, be as "the angels, who neither marry nor are given in marriage." Go join a convent, or monastery, or live in a hippie commune. (Strangely Jesus didn't talk much about sex... he just had issues with marriage.)

If gays, lesbians, bisexuals, transgenders, etc. want to enter into the marriage contract, than it is purely a thing of the state... and if the canonization of divorice, multi-racial unions, women wearing pants etc. haven't ruined "forever, humanity's historic understanding of marriage" than a bunch of gays and lesbians tying the knot, certainly will not.

Go New York! Go every state that has taken this step toward equality. Go God for wiring my brain to go nuts over cock. Go every one of my brothers and sisters who takes the opportunity that has been given them to tie yourself to pre-nuptials, joint tax filing, and all of the other sordid things that go into a contemporary marriage. Most of all, go out and be who you are; love who you love; and don't be a douche. To quote, Santa Gaga (Our Lady of Freedom), "baby, you were born this way."

Amen,

~ Fosse Jack

Rock'N Roll, An Alumni Spectacular

2011-06-19T22:32:00.000-07:00

Finishing a year of Alumni Shows, the power house production team of Bella Bijoux, Wiggy Stardust, and Juniper Gin, presented Rock'N Roll, An Alumni Spectacular. This, like other AoB, alumni shows, was equal parts class reunion, talent showcase, and ongoing education. Over a dozen former students of Miss Indigo Blue's Academy of Burlesque appeared on the stage of West Hall last night, and they brought with them acts based on the rock roll themes of rebellion, independence, and "not your grandmother"'s brand of entertainment.

The performance ranged in type, style, extravagence, and production polish, but all benefited from the granduer of West Hall. Performances just feel more epic on that stage. With the great blue curtains, good sound, better lighting then most venues can boast, and a full sized stage, it gives performers the opportunity to be bigger and challenges them to really fill the space. That being said, some fill the space better than others.

While all of the performer reached the bar a few were ahead of the class in their concepts, choreography and performance values.

Flirty Sanchez, the evening's emcee, was the performer I enjoyed the most. With quirky charm, and a clever tongue, Flirty made good use of innuendo, 'tat for tit' tactics, and self depracating humor. Many hosts beat you over the head with boobs, but Flirty was just that... a flirt and it worked beautifully.

Lila Dread and Sir Eddie Van Glam made a great duo, as a sexy school marm, and a horny juvenile delinquent. Sir Eddie, brings a certain sexy camp to anything he does, and Lila's serious, dom energy provided a nice contrast. I would have liked to see this number go a little further, a good sign as the pair left the audience wanting more.

Piston Chambers roots for the underdog, and in his number last night he brought a comedic underdog back into the spot light. In a parody of the "Where are they now?" style television show, Piston portrayed the character made famous by Will Ferrel on SNL (cowbell anyone?)... that being said Piston is a far sexier man then Ferrel has ever been; and was surprisingly good on the makeshift set of drums. You got to love multi talented performers. Piston's prop heavy performance are best suited to larger venues like West Hall, so when you have a chance, check this Guy out.

Donatella MeLies is one of the few performers I've seen turn trash into art. This lady made Hefty bags haute. Her initial emergence, tearing her way out of a big black trash bag was particularly brilliant. This number is a bit impractical (as she seemed to destroy her costume), and would probably make recycling nuts cringe, but as a one shot performance piece it was spectacular!

Iva Handfull is proof that with dedication, and drive you can go far, having recently competed at Exotic World and won some much deserved acclaim. While practicing for her performance in Las Vegas, Iva, a legendarily meticulous performer, discovered that her Firestarter fan dance sinched up comically well with very different song. While I can't remember the name of the song, I will say that watching Iva perform this rather intense act, to a power ballad was ridiculously awesome.

I could go on, and on, commenting on each and every performer but for the time being will stick with this highlights. It was a good show, and I applaud each of the performers, and the producers who put it together. I look forward to seeing more of the alumni shows, and to seeing each of these performers again sometime.

Loves!

~ Fosse Jack

Disney After Dark

2011-06-19T01:53:00.000-07:00

In previous reviews I have made comments concerning "themed shows." They either work, or they fall apart. While most of the shows I've seen come close to falling apart, Stripped Screw Burlesque's current production, Disney After Dark, does not.

Techincally speaking the show has a few weak points. The sound track, though clever, is roughly cut together and sudden breaks in the music seem accidental, and can be distracting... especially when they land in the middle of a performaner's train of thought (action). The disembodied narrator is inconsistent, introducing some but not all numbers; and when the voice of "Granny Screw" is present it doesn't add much.

That being said the remaining production values, and performance standards of this show are fairly high; good burlesque with a few truly outstanding pieces woven in. The show is built on the journey of an "unconventional princess" and the search for true love. With anchor points, begining, middle and end, bringing you back to the main plot line, and the character of the "princess" and her guide, the Blue Fairy, serving as pick-up artists, you are fully immersed in the story no matter what the next performance is.

Each act is based on a classic (or new) work of Disney, which is promptly turned on its head, revealing the naughty bits hidden beneath the fluff. Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, Snow White, Alice in Wonderland, Bambi, Pinnochio, Peter Pan, Lady and the Tramp, Winnie the Pooh (seriously!), Beauty & The Beast, and even an Award Winning Pixar Film (I won't ruin the surprise!) are featured in this show. No childhood memory is sacred.

Stripped Screw's Primaries and Guest performers, bring a wide variety of performance styles. While Minetta Lane, Kylie Koyote, Bella Bijoux and Roxie Moxie each provide their own take on classic and neo strip tease, Randi Rascal brings some electric fun, Stella D'Letto explores shoe lust, and newcommer Kutie LaBootie thumps the audience good with her charming blend of cuteness and filth. Violet Tendencies pairs up with The Trojan Original to bring you a beautifully executed, and terribly depraved pas de deux (giggity). The Paris Original, rocks the stage en pointe, lending his usual comedic charm, and incomparable grace to the show (swoon). Wiggy Stardust ... is ... Brilliant!

Saying more would give away some really fun twists and surprises, so let me finish by saying that, Disney After Dark is a great show and one that I strongly encourage my readers to see. It will be playing one more weekend, June 24th (8pm) and 25th (7pm AND 8:30pm) at The Rendezvous/Jewelbox Theater.

$15 at Brownpapertickets.com/event/178342

Loves!

Fosse Jack

The "BGB" and The Cog Days of Summer

2011-06-12T11:30:00.000-07:00

Some time ago the world experienced what could be described as a Big 'Glitter' Bang, an explosion of creativity and sparkles that dazzled and delighted. Today, as the material of the BGB continues to spread, and coalesce into new performers and pieces, we are nearing the time when performers will need to solidify and become true celestial bodies if they are going to survive. We won't all be stars, but we can become satellites of these giants, both reflecting and being nourished by their radiance. Hey planets are pretty amazing things even if they aren't seen as clearly or prominently as stars. Until the time when these things take shape however, we will have to deal with the debris of the BGB and the often unfinished products that emerge from it.

Ok, setting the astronomical metaphor aside, my point is this. There are a LOT of new burlesque artists out there. They have some good ideas, some talent, and some moxy. What they often lack is guidance (yes I do hold to an Intelligent Design Theory of Burlesque), and the direction needed to move from proto-performer to artist. Here in Seattle, we are lucky to have Miss Indigo Blue (congratz luvs!!!!) and the incomparable Academy of Burlesque to get things started, but after graduation many performers start to fray around the edges. New works are not polished, and sometimes not fully thought through.

Last night I had the opportunity to see a show produced by the delightful Violet DeVille, called the Cog Days of Summer, a steampunk themed show. First, let me say that I love the steampunk aesthetic, and the play on words is clever. Second, allow me to remind you of my feelings on themed shows. They are either awesome and mesh up well together, or they feel thrown together. It is HARD to do a themed show, which is why I avoided it at all cost with Jack & Wood. It takes careful planning, and a lot of artistic jimmying to make it work. If your seques aren't planned to the letter, to help things fit... it just kind of falls apart.

Cog Days... skirted the line of falling apart; awkward scene changes, technical difficulties (juggling cds... also HARD), and a new emcee who while entertaining didn't quite know the genre well enough to guide us down the back alleys of the a steampunk world. That being said, it had a lot of potential... it just needed a week of dress/tech rehearsals.

I feel so guilty saying this because I can't tell you how many times I have put on shows without enough rehearsal, and I work with actors who volunteer there time! It is exspensive to pay artist rehearsal time. It is expensive to rent rehearsal space. It is expensive to hire a sound egineer to design your run list. It is a damn shame that new producers with clever ideas have to settle for unfinished products because they don't have the capital to build something more exceptional. And often times it boils down to that. Burlesque artists are broke.

My general feelings expressed, I want to offer a few pieces of constructive criticism to the artists I saw last night. Take these with a grain of salt, and know that I truly want you to excel.

The Guitarist of Deseo Carmin... chill dude! Getting angry at the sound tech on stage detracts from the fact that you have some skill with that instrument of yours and your flamenco inspired vocalist is working her little tush off to be heard. The aucousitics of the Jewelbox are wonky, and there is no real moniter on the stage, deal with it.
Chesty LaRue, sweetie you were funny. I loved the clowning, and the alcoholic stashes where cleverly placed. But why are you taking your clothes off? What is your character's motivation? Strippers take their clothes off because it is expected of them, burlesque artists have to find the reason beyond of the audience desire for T&A.
Scarlet O'Hairdye, I really enjoyed your act. It was clever, and it fit the theme very well. The music was a rough choice though. It looked like there were jokes written into your choreo that were lyric based and the audience couldn't really hear or understand the lyrics. I've run into this problem before. There is nothing wrong with the music itself, and in an ideal world it would work beautifully. Just be aware that the audience will only rarely get lyrics based jokes. Especially since your vivacious glitter soaked bod is distracting. :-)
Dahlia Ste. Cyr, honey, you have a great idea! You might want to approach it from a different angle. Also, have you considered revealing the device itself? Teasing the audience by slowly revealing an industrial strength vibrator? It could be really good. Let's talk sometime!
La Petit Mort, this is the strongest burlesque piece that I've seen you do, and I LOVED the science trick. Science is sexy! My one piece of advice is don't stop using those feminine wiles when your lover makes his entrance. You are standing there in next to nothing... seduce him! Play up the kink of waiting to pounce and pleasure your lover when they get home from work (or wherever). Work with that stud of an assistant to add a little duet movement or stage acting to the finish of the act.... (also having him collaps upstage of the table would probably be a good idea... easier to clean up. :-)
Beatrice Belladona, darling, I love you. I love the contrast of prim and proper mistress and down and dirty Mistress. I love the contrast of Victorian meets Rammstein (is that right?). I just want to pass on a note that directors have given me for years... stillness can be powerful. You have very clear movements in your reveals, and a lot of strength, but the constant back and forth lessens your power. Use that imperious statuesque majesty that you generate and really dominate the audience.
Violet DeVille, I loved your act. You make use of the most graceful parts of your range of movement. You know your body and you use it well. You are clever (the gear wheel pasties... BRILLIANT), and are a natural performer. Also, having danced the automaton before, waiting for music to start can be excruciating and you handled it like a pro. That's all.

And with those pretentious two-cents comements, I am all but through with this article. One parting remark however. Burlesque is entering the mainstream theatrical world. It is reaching a broader audience base, and as such we will have to clean up our acts a little to keep those audience members coming back. Yes T&A are awesome, but we have to give them more than that, we don't have to give them high art, (most of them don't want high art) but we have to start offering more polished pieces.

If any of this is helpful use it. If it isn't then ignore it. In either case know that I love you all.

~ Fosse Jack

The Gorejess Mimi Montgomery Presents: A Celebration of Pride

2011-06-04T01:17:00.000-07:00

This evening I had the opportunity to guest on a show produced by The Gorejess Mimi Montgomery, featuring her Gorejess Gals at The Syndicate (formerly Vela) downtown. The performers; Cherry "Killer" Tomatoes, Pixie Parcelle, Flirty Sanchez and Flora Burns brought a mix of performance concepts and styles, but each one focused on an aspect of Pride; self pride, geek pride, pride in ones appearance, and of course gay pride.

The evening began with a piece by Cherry "Killer" Tomatoes. Cherry's performance as a Bible-thumping, sign toting, closested lesbian who finds self acceptance and a new take on life was an upbeat and comedic first act. Cherry's use of the picketing signs as fans was innovative and fun. The one thing I would recommend is that during the opening number/introductions, she appeared in only half of her costume. Having already given away part of the prize, the reveal was less powerful. Maybe add a robe or overcoat to the costume? Just a thought. Cherry would return at the end of the show with a classic balloon number. These acts are hard to sell because the concept behind the act is not one many people get today. Cherry did very well by emphasizing the pleasure and enjoyment she got out of popping the balloons or better yet having some one else pop them.

The pocket sized performer Pixie Parcelle performed a number as a geeky science girl, who through the use of a chemical cocktail finds the courage to let go and become the woman she longs to be. Pixie's physical performance was beautifully awkward, and her facial expressions priceless. I want to see this number again, as I see a lot of potential in it. Unfortunately I think it suffered from the rather small space, for even though Pixie is pocket sized herself, she has a LOT of energy and would benefit from a slightly bigger playing field.

The Gorejess Mimi Montgomery would offer up her own piece of pride, and that is pride in a job well done and in making a difference going from housewife to empowered WWII riveter. I have seen several Rosie themed acts, and each in its way has been good. I particularly liked that Mimi explored the psychology of the "woman at home" and the "woman at work". We all want to make a difference, and feeling that we actually can and do leaves us stronger for it. Mimi would also emcee the show, exuding a bubbly charisma and light hearted sex appeal. As a host, Mimi played well with the audience. She was not too easily distracted but not so focused on the next thing in the lineup that she couldn't banter a little. From experience I can tell you that it is a difficult balancing act, and I am happy to say she did it well.

Flora Burns, provided an abosolutely fantastic piece to Bannana Phone. I had never heard the song before, but now I want to look it up. With corded telephone (that she later peels) and a dress that came undone in a similair manner, Flora was funny, sexy, and she rocked this neo-take on the classic housewife act. I especially liked her pasties which used telephone cord instead of tassles... and she still spun them rather deftly. Brava!

The final performer of the evening was Flirty Sanchez. Like most of the ladies tonight, I had not had the opportunity to see Flirty perform before this show. I want to see her again. Her first act was a lovely classic piece, a strip tease out of an evening gown, that had a final twist when she first removed the false breasts from her bra and second revealed a hidden package in her underwear. I thought it interesting that she did not go down to pasties for this one but it made sense when I realized she was playing a man, playing a woman. Very Victor/Victoria. Her second number was another gender bender. Entering stage as a Spanish matador, Flirty reveals that she is not the man she appears to be. Removing facial hair, false 'junk' and adding earring and lipstick, she unveiled her feminity. The crown of this number however was the unbinding of her breasts. Wrapped tight, and in many layers, Flirty shows the audience just what a woman once had to do be accepted in a male dominate world. The rhinestone nipple pasties where a nice touch, though it was the thought "behind the pasties" that I was most impressed with.

Over all the Gorejess Gals provided a nice variety of acts, and the audience seemed very well pleased. I was honored to be able to perform with these talented young ladies, and would be happy to attend another of their shows either on stage or in the audience. Their next show July 1st will have a USA theme and I am curious to see what these clever ladies come up with for that show.

Loves,

Fosse Jack

Behind the Scarlet Curtain: Fosse Jack (Part I)

2011-05-21T14:53:00.000-07:00

My name is Fosse Jack. At least it is in some circles. To others I am James or Jim (even Jimmy if you’ve known me long enough), but I would greatly appreciate it if you never call me Jimbo, or make clichéd Star Trek references concerning the deceased. I don’t find it humorous.

I am a dancer, an actor, a singer, and a burlesque performer. I am a producer, a director, and a theatrical writer. I am a friend, and lover; a brother and son. I am a social idealist, and think communism is a really cool idea. I believe in loving your food, and treating both animals and the environment responsibly and humanely. I consider myself a spiritual disciple of a man shrouded in myth.

I love Burlesque and Musical Theatre; Lady Gaga, and Jason & DeMarco; soccer and hiking; Hiyao Miyazaki and C.S. Lewis; Tennessee Williams, and Mary Zimmerman; Dungeons & Dragons, and video games. I am a knight in shining armor, a bleeding heart idealist, and a fashion loving urbanite. I am gay, in both the contemporary and archaic senses of the word, “vanilla chai” and poly. I am many things, and I am always discovering more about myself.

I grew up in the south eastern United States, Georgia to be specific. From the tender age of 5 I lived in the college town called Statesboro, connected Georgia Southern University, than in a rural suburb of said college town. I started high school in a farming community called Brooklet (I kid you not), and I spent most of my summers on the Gulf of Mexico. It was a pleasant way to grow up; if hot, muggy, and entirely too filled with biting critters. I had good friends, suffered less than my fair share of childhood torment, and had a family that loved, supported and expected a lot of me.

Within our southern, Bible Belt community, my family was considered ‘moderate’ … or in PNW terms, not-quite raging conservatives. Born into and raised in the United Methodist tradition I was a firm if naïve Christian.

I loved the stories in the Bible, and could tell you many of them by heart. I loved the poetry of Genesis 1, the stories of David and Jonathan (Jonathan is still my favorite biblical character), the imagery in Ezekiel, and the stories of Jesus. I embraced the teachings of love, forgiveness above all, and could never stomach the idea of eternal damnation, and argued against the concept of a loving God who could willingly condemn someone to suffer forever. It just wasn’t right.

Still, I was socially conservative. I frowned on alcohol, thought heavy metal music just a little bit evil, and couldn’t understand why anyone wouldn’t like Jesus. I felt that sex belonged in the realm of marriage, not because marriage was necessarily holy, but that sex was and belonged in a ‘temple’ of sorts. I followed the main stream Christian stance on homosexuality, and marriage, but in truth I had no real concept of what it meant to be homosexual. I just thought… they are doing something kind of icky. What that “icky” stuff was, exactly, was beyond me. In fact if you had asked me if I knew any gay people, I would have said no. I probably was friends with several, and just never assumed or understood. I still don’t like making assumptions about people, but back than… I couldn’t. I had no reference. I was so far in the closet, that I was “in Narnia” and I had no intention of leaving that place anytime soon.

My family moved to the West Coast when I was a sophomore in high school, to a little town called Hoquiam. A place more socially backwards and depressing that the tiny farming community I had lived in, in Georgia. It was a place where ‘rednecks and hicks” did not have the excuse of actually being farmers. It was a place where I grew disgusted of liberals who abused the system, and conservative who were afraid of the system. There was no idealism, and no tradition. It felt like a lost world.

I finished a year of high school in Hoquiam before enrolling in the Running Start Program and attending class at the local college, almost exclusively. My goal was to be done with Hoquiam quickly.

After graduating with my HS Diploma and AA Degree, I made the decision to attend Seattle Pacific University. My plan (since I was ten or twelve) was to go into Christian ministry, and SPU was the next step in that plan.

Little did I know that Seattle Pacific University, a conservative Free Methodist school populated largely by conservative Presbyterian students, would be THE turning point in my life. My journey from here would take me to where I am today, not through the backlash that conservatism can sometimes induce, but through a gentle opening into a wider world and the removal of the blinders I had long permitted myself to wear.

[Behind the Scarlet Curtain is a monthly blog series that looks at the lives of people in and around the Burlesque Community. What drives us to do what we do? Where do we come from? Are we different from everyone else? As I get to know people in the community I find that I want to get to know them ever more. If you are interested in being interviewed for this series of biographical shorts, please contact me at fossejack@gmail.com.]

Match Game: Cher Wars

2011-05-16T12:40:00.000-07:00

Ok, so last night I had the opportunity to go see Match Game at The Rendezvous, for the first time. Wow! What a delightful cluster f*ck of personalities and bad humor. Mimicking the old 60s/70s game shows, Match Game pits audience members against each other to see who can best get into the minds of the "celebrity" panelists.

Hosted by the amazingly cheesy Richard Rugburn, Sunday night's theme was a awkward mash up of pop culture references: Cher and Star Wars... which expectedly please both gays and geeks alike. The match game phrases developed where largely absurd, but that was the point! The celebrity panelists came up with some pretty ridiculous answers (again... the point) making it hard for the audience participants to get inside their heads.

The highlights of the show included the wit and humor of Glamazonia, and a character by Steven Stone called Lando Caucasian, a charismatic if slightly sleezy Star Wars themed politician. References by Lucky Penny as Barbraleia a mash up character of Princess Leia and Barbarella were perhaps to obscure for the majority of the audience but she committed to them, and it was fun to watch Richard drool over her awesome go-go boots. Bravo girl! :-)

The rest of the panelist seemed to be there to be crude, and as a show built around parodying an often risque game show of yesteryear, it worked. For those of you who have not made it before, look it up. Apparently they have only one more show, ending its 5 year run (this is an awesome achievement!) that will be coming up in early summer. It's wacky, it's tacky, and it's a lot of fun.

Loves, Fosse Jack

Upcoming Show! Floozies & Fairytales

2011-05-10T14:55:00.000-07:00

Saturday, May 28th at The Redezvous/Jewelbox Theaer I will be joining Vixen Valentine, Beatrice Belladona, Violet DeVille, EmpeROAR Fabulous and more for a fairytale themed burlesque show! I love fairytales, and I love the act I'm developing for this show. Here is a fairytale teaser, and I hope to see you there!

***

Once upon a time, there was a boy named Fosse Jack. He was not a bad boy. He was not a good boy. But he was a nice boy. One night he decided to go on an adventure. His mother did not want him to go, but he said "I am a man, mother. I must see the world!" She did not stop him but she said, "Be careful my son for the world is full of faeries, and they will lure you with glitter and booze and you will be lost forever." Fosse Jack kissed him mother and went on, heedless of the warning she had given.

His mother had good reason to warn him, for Fosse Jack was a changeling child, a faerie himself, and she feared that once he found out he would never return.

Fosse Jack went into night and he met many wonderful faeries. He danced, and he drank, and he got covered in glitter.

When the moon was full over head, Fosse Jack met a giant. A big beautiful lady giant with long blonde hair, and adorable little cat ears. She smiled at him and because he was tired she offered him food and rest. Fosse Jack thought she was a "nice giant" and he snuggled his head in her giant bossoms.

Morning came, and the giant made him breakfast. Hickory Farms sausage with Ego waffles with gallons of syrup. By the time his appetite was sated, Fosse Jack was sticky all over. The giant told him, that she must go out but before he left he could use her shower. He smiled and thanked her.

Fosse Jack scrubbed and he scrubbed and he got the syrup off of his lithe, pale body. Afterwards as he looked for his clothes he spotted something that filled his eyes with mischeivious glimmers. Remember that he was not a bad boy. But seeing that the giant's beautiful shoes fit him just right, he proved that nice boys CAN be naughty.

Into The Woods

2011-05-10T13:33:00.000-07:00

So I am going to take a few moments to break from my burlesque blog and inset a bit of my first love, "musical theatre"!

This past weekend I had the opportunity to see one of my favorite shows at one of my favorites Seattle theaters. Seattle Musical Theatre, up in Magnusun Park, is currently running a production of INTO THE WOODS. Written by Stephen Sondheim, the show combines various fairy tales and takes you on a journey from "I wish!" to "Happily Ever After" to After Happily Ever After. The journey takes you into "the woods" a magical realm that tends to play tricks on the mind, and changes all who pass through it.

I could go on and on about the "deeper meaning" and all that jazz, but I'd prefer to do that in person so if you are interested, look me up and we'll have tea and talk theatre. The purpose of this review is to pique your interest in some fantastic talent and a well constructed production.

First allow me to say that Into The Woods, like many Sondheim shows, is a difficult piece of theatrical material. The music is unneccessarily complex, and at times sounds wrong (though I assure you it is right). Complicated rythms, fast words work and more make Into The Woods a challenge for any actor or singer that approaches it, but it is that complexity and challenge that makes a well done production all the more impressive.

I will admit that I had second thoughts when I first came into the auditorium. The "books" set on stage, to signify the three main stories that we would follow where painfully crafted projections. But as the lights dimmed, the Narrator stepped on stage, and Cinderella uttered the first notes of the show, I let myself forget the projections (at least until intermission).

With very few exceptions the talent on stage Saturday night shined. The actors brought depth, conflict and meaning to characters that can be easily turned into one-dimensional storybook cut outs.

V.J. Orduna and Britt Boyd as the Baker and his Wife, Collin Madison as Jack (from Jack and the Beanstalk) and Julie Drummond as Little Red Riding Hood set the bar for the show. V.J.'s soft-spoken performance emphasized the uncertain nature of the Baker. Britt's jazzy-grit gave earthiness and spice to the Wife, a bored woman who finds passion in the woods. Colin deftly explored the full range of Jack's youthful innocence, from playful to unconditionally caring to the edge of razor sharp wrath. Julie, as Red was sarcastic, bitey and to the point, and she wielded her words like the knife her Granny gave her.

These four played their roles well, and brought life to the archetypes upon which the show is built, working together they formed the heart of the show.

As Cinderella, Ashley Coates provided the "wings" that allowed that heart to soar. With excellent comedic time and some very good pratt falls, Ashley played the lovable clutz running from a Prince she didn't ask for. When the time called for it however, Ashley drew deep and revealed the bittersweet soul that lay beneath both peasant girl and princess. Her vocal performance was stunning, and hearing her sing "No One Is Alone" is reason enough to see the show!

Dallas Milholland excelled as the Witch. Comically energetic (ever seen a fairytale hag rap?) to begin with, she becomes stately when her beauty returns. Dallas provided one of the most haunting moments of the show as she sung Last Midnight directly to the Baker's son, a chilling lullaby and an excellent directing choice by Victoria Webb. The Witch is far from a stereotypical villian, but can be played as such. Dallas did not shirk from taking her character farther then the paper doll antagonist and explored every inch of her humanity. Brava.

The best performance of the night was given by Josh Ryder who doubled (as is tradition) as The Wolf to Little Red, and Cinderella's Prince. Josh is no stranger to SMT's stage, and I have enjoyed his performances each time, but these two roles seem custom made for him. As the Wolf he is both intensely sensual and he so strongly channels the animalistic energy of a wolf, that he manages to play the sexual predator without being creepy. As Cinderella's Prince, Josh is refined, charmingly flamboyant and comically snobbish, whats more he is human. In his confrontation with Cinderella in ACT II, he reveals a self-knowledge and understanding that makes him sympathetic to the audience. He can't be what Cinderella wants, he can't even be what the kingdom wants; so his solace... get lost in The Woods and just take it, moment by moment. Josh can sing (and has a howl that made my mouth water), dance, and act. If I didn't have a huge crush on him, I'd be jealous. :-) Amazing work!

The remaining aspects of the show all met the standard I have come to expect from SMT. The small intrumental ensemble directed by Paul Linnes worked well together, and provided a quality of sound that I have seen much larger music pits lack (even at higher budjet theatres). The scenic shifts where smooth, as trees moved quietly through the muted lights and colors of The Woods. The sound was a little unbalanced, with SFX levels being inconsistent but vocal volumes where steady enough that the audience could hear the actors sing, and really that is the most important thing.

With my critiques and praises shared, let me just say that I thoroughly enjoyed this production and I want to recommend all of my readers to go see it if you have a chance. Despites its reputation as a show that "performers love" (SMT had to add two whole nights of auditions because so many people wanted came out for it... that

s 5 nights of audtions!), but does not have the best box office ratings, SMT's production is selling so don't wait too long. Tickets can be purchase at http://www.seattlemusicaltheatre.org/ or call 206-363-2809. INTO THE WOODS will be playing for two more weekends!

Beebo Brinker Pulp Cabarets

2011-04-30T16:26:00.000-07:00

This past Thursday marked the launch of a six month series of events which will include four monthly cabarets, a special engagement at The ACT (Central Heating Lab) and finally the Seattle premiere of the theatrical adaptation of the collected pulp-fiction novels of Ann Bannon, called The Beebo Brinker Chronicles. The events collectively promise to be "THE gay event of the summer." Thursday night's cabaret showed that it does have the potential to fulfill that promise.

The theme of the evening was Greenwich Village of the 1950s. Lyla la Coeur, Diva le Deviant, and Cherry Manhattan (the driving production team) brought together musical, theatrical and burlesque talent, including the Hot Pink Motion Machine, Fuschia FOXXX, the cabaret's headliner. Other performers included Whisper De Corvo, Ginger Snapz, Angel Alabaster, and jazz artists The John Terpin Trio which along with its featured performances provided instrumental riffs when necessary (a nice touch).

The highlights of the evening began with the pre-show video. Looping through clips of Betty Paige dressing Tempest Storm, old black and white commercials for cosmetic products, an "educational" film telling us that girls who date around aren't as popular as they think they are, and waiting at home for your one guy is the mark of a desirable female (not to mention instructing men to ask their sweeties out well in advance so they have plenty of time to spruce up), juxtaposed with girl on girl wrestling and ending with an dance performance of a Hindu goddess slaying a demon in battle; the film made a clear statement about social expectations.

The first solo act of the evening was Whisper De Corvo, who debuted a new number, which I'd like to call Whisper's Cotillion. The act blended grace, comedic pantomime, and of course, sexy strip tease. For those of you who have never seen Whisper perform, allow me to make some comparisons. With a face like Audrey Hepburn, the stature of Bea Arthur, and the curves of Marilyn Munroe, Whisper fills the space with both her statuesque frame and her cheerful personality. Her style is comedic, playing to the audience's lighter side, and her strip techniques skirt the boundaries of innocence and down right dirty. Her performance on Thursday night was well played, and the audience seemed to truly enjoy it. Evoking laughter and cat calls, Whisper was a good choice for the opening burlesque act of the show.

Speaking of pantomime, the most "artsy" piece of the night was a three part installment that blended a sensual reading of some of the novel's sexier bits, by Rebecca Olson, and the light hearted, teasing, interaction of two 50s "housewives" as portrayed by Lyla and Cherry. The first two pieces also included Fuschia FOXXX as an awkward (very awkward) young woman who struggled with her attraction to Lyla's character. Funny, and in some ways sad, the story told in these scenes was one that highlighted the socially taboo nature of lesbian lust.

Fuschia would return to the stage in the second act to close the show, presenting a sideshow classic , a "hermaphrodite " number. Dressed as both the French maid and her employer, Fuschia made good use of a feathered fan to hide one half of herself while each character performed. The physical nature of this piece was intense, and both halves of psyche anima and animus showed their strength through movement. This number was both artistically impressive and a definite crowd pleaser, and was an excellent close to the show.

One last thing of particular note was the continuing usage of the Beebo Brinker literature to introduce the various performers. Diva, in a cherry print dress that hugged her curvacious frame and red, 50s style glasses, read selections of the novel with excellent use of flare and breathy accentuations. In each case she inserted the performer into the role of Beebo's lover. This was a brilliant vehicle, expertly driven by the Diva, and I hope it is one that will return in the following cabarets.

Early on the bar was set, the standard high but achievable, and the performers met all expectations. The few critiques I would have to offer are largely things out of the control of the performers. I do hope that the producers will talk to the spotlight operator whose constant fidgeting with the light was more than a little distracting. Sound was decent though at times the pauses between introduction and "music go" were uncomfortably long. Those technical matters aside, Thursday's show was quite strong, and I look forward to attending the future installments.

The Beebo Brinker Pulp Cabarets will be playing through July at The Re-Bar, with the next scheduled for Thursday, May 26th. The guest artists? Fuschia FOXX will be joined by The Shanghai Pearl and Lady TaTas. For those who missed the first cabaret, I recommend that you mark you calendars now.

Loves,
Fosse Jack

The Anita Goodman Experience

2011-04-29T10:33:00.000-07:00

You cannot go long as a member of the Seattle burlesque community without meeting or at least hearing about local drag-personality Anita Goodman and her co-host/producer and BFF Cassie O'Hara. These Ladies have been regular performers in Seattle cabarets for the past four years or so, and for several years have produced and hosted their own show: The Anita Goodman Experience.

Last Thursday night, I had the opportunity to attend the latest installment of this show, a tax-day hangover themed extravaganza of drag/burlesque/comedy/improvisational chaos. At least that it was it appears to be at first glance. Starting off with a formulaic structure consisting of original theme music, and dry, witty comedic monologuing by Cassie O'Hara, the show quickly becomes more complex. Guest performers both on and off stage add layer upon layer of material until it is hard to tell where the show is going. Improvised interruptions often throw the audience (and sometimes the performers) for a loop, and may appear to be out of control (example ... about two hundred used Starbucks cups being unexpectedly dumped on stage!). Yet through all of this the audience has an anchor. Removed from the chaos, standing like a pillar in the storm, Anita holds the show together.

The Tax-Day show included performances by:

The ever-clever cabaret singer Gams Galore, performed one of her witty parodies, than spent the remainder of the show working her tush off as Anita's "fluffer" and impromptu pick up artist
Improv maestro Andrew McMasters brought "The Sheen" to the stage as only he can, and tangled with one of his biggest fans, Gary Gloryhole.
Lydia McLane harassed Anita and the audience as an uptight agent of the IRS, with her mascot the 1040FU faithfully sic'ing tax dodgers.
Brendan Mack, a regular performer on The Jack & Wood Show, brought the over medicated, crazy, trany-wreck Helen Hitchcock to Anita's show, immersing himself so deeply in the character that a young woman attending the show actually thought he was an unstable homeless woman and gave him a monetary handout!
The evenings burlesque guest, forgive me but I cannot remember her name, performed a piece as a business woman who while doing her taxes realized that she could make more money in stripper's heels than at her desk job.
Cassie performed a lip-sync piece to "The Ladies Who Lunch". I don't normally enjoy lip sync, but Cassie's facial expressions are masterfully timed and quite funny.
Anita closed the show by singing (Anita actual sings, and well, something few drag-artistes do) a song to Charlie Sheen, a strong finish and final anchor point to a delightful evening of sensory overload.

For those of you who have never been The Anita Goodman Experience, your first time may be a bit much for you to take in all at once but like a "Where's Waldo?" book it is a lot of fun to explore and see what sort of jokes are hidden within the chaos. The next show will be on Thursday, June 9th at The Jewelbox Theater/Rendezvous in Belltown and I highly encourage you to check it out.

It's fun y'all!
Fosse Jack

"Let My Bunnies Go"

2011-04-16T14:02:00.000-07:00

Last night I had the opportunity to volunteer at "Let My Bunnies Go" a show produced by Miss Indigo Blue (The Academy of Burlesque) and Heidi Von Haught, featuring Dangerous Curves from NYC. The show, combined (loosely) elements of both the Jewish Passover and the Pagan/Christian Easter celebrations with acts from Dangerous Curves' spring tour. Hosted by Miss Indigo Blue, the show was equal parts irreverence, raunchy humor, and sexy fun.

Dangerous Curves, the troupe consisting of GiGi La Femme, Anita Cookie, Clams Casino, Darlinda Just Darlinda, and Minni Tonka presented a variety of pieces both neo and classic, comedic and sexy.

Anita Cookie's first act fit in with both Orthodox and Catholic traditions of Easter (though it wasn't presented as such) and Lent. Mixing dough on stage, flour, sugar and beer, Anita indulged in sensual preparation of a staple of life, only to reveal to the audience that it was a guilty pleasure a thing she longed for but was for her a forbidden thing (just ask anyone on a no-carb diet). Taking a real life situation and finding the sex and the tease in it, Anita's act was, in my opinion the most clever of the evening.

Anita would return to the stage later in the show with Clams Casino, to perform what was definitely the funniest act of the night. Re-enacting the sex/pottery scene from the movie Ghost, these two ladies quickly won the crowds approval. Slow, sensual and hilarious (especially considering the Charlie Brown ghost costume), the act was an excellent pop culture reference. Then taking a page (perhaps unintentionally) from Family Guy, they turned it on its head by adding a bit of Ghostbusters (and Minni Tonka) into the act. Fortunately for the audience, the Ghost won, and the pair teased once more while going in for the girl-on-girl kiss only to break away to bow to the house.

Another crowd favorite was GiGi La Femme's second act, a fetish piece that left her cheeks red. GiGi's simple but sexy costume came off fairly quickly, for it was the reveal of the leather paddle and its intended use that was the climax of the act. GiGi teased the audience by teasing herself, making good use of the typical burlesque goers voyeuristic tendencies. My one suggestion to GiGi is that she can slow her choreography down. While stripping her movements were frenetic, and while well timed seemed nervous. Sometimes less is more. She has a great figure and stage presence, and it would have been nice if they could be better appreciated; the audience allowed to savor it just a little.

Another "tease the audience by teasing yourself" act was a performance by Darlinda Just Darlinda, and was, in my opinion, the most intriguing (and dirtiest) act of the night. Her gown, open in the back, displayed her assets nicely, and was a beautiful nod to early modern dance. Her isolations, chair work, and later floor work were all beautifully executed and when she was done, I felt as though I had just watched Martha Graham masturbate (vigorously) on stage. That being said.... I am glad that I have never actually seen Martha Graham masturbate on stage, but I did actually enjoy Darlinda's performance.

It was evident that the Passover/Easter theme was contrived by our local producers, and at times it felt that the acts performed were forced into place, even to the point of adding bunny ears to a performer's costume just to fit the theme. The major exceptions to this were a performance by The Schlep Sisters (sp?), Darlinda Just Darlinda and Minni Tonka, that enacted through comedic interpretive dance, and simple strip tease, the Exodus of Israel from Egypt, a piece that felt custom tailored for the show, Indigo's Seder Plate piece, and Heidi Von Haught performing the "passion" of Jesus to "F*ckin' Rock n' Roll". (Which was a surprising mix reverence and irreverence; a nice balance and that more then impressive.) While it did not detract from the show, and Indigo made good use of non-sequitur to keep things flowing, it was not expected and threw me at first.

That being said, Let My Bunnies Go was an entertaining introduction to East Coast Burlesque, and was well received by the audience. If you did not get a chance to see Dangerous Curves last night, I understand they will be performing at The Pink Door this evening, and some of them will be modeling at Dr. Sketchy's on Sunday so you may still have the opportunity. :-)

Loves,
Fosse Jack

Sinner Saint Burlesque Presents "POP CULTURE"

2011-04-12T18:28:00.000-07:00

After a month of being super broke (meh) I finally made it out to another show! Yeah. Of course, the fan boy that I am Sinner Saint Burlesque was my destination, and just in time because opening night of "Pop Culture" was a really fun show.

The evening was hosted by guest comedienne/actor Adra Boo, who shinned on stage in all her curvacious glory. Adra's banter with the audience was both excellently executed and very well received. She stayed focused, filled time, and did all of the other things you expect a good host to do. Sinner Saint lost a gem when Nicole Lucas moved to Texas, but Adra is a beautiful jewel to help decorate the SSB stage, at least for this run. I am excited to see how various guest hosts work with the team as they progress this year.

(Ok so this review is turning flowery quick. I apologize if my language turns all Cyrano on you.)

As one might expect "Pop Culture" covers a wide expanse of material. Touching on music, dance, technology, celebrity, television, and even childhood memories, this show has quite the variety of performance. One critique is that such diversity makes an arc or flow difficult to maintain. It is the danger of "themed" shows, either they mesh really well together or they feel a little disjointed. Pop Culture walked the line between the two, but this balancing act be no means distracted from the performances.

As for the performances themselves, I will highlight four of them.

As the first act of the show Dona De Cuori brought back to the stage a number I have reviewed in the past. As Terpsichore, the Greek Muse of Dance, Dona took the audience on musical history tour of popular culture. I feel that this number has greatly improved since I first saw it, the flow was smoother, and the motivations leading to reveals were more clear. As a performer Dona has grown a lot this past year, and I have enjoyed watching this creative journey!

Polly Wood's first number of the evening started the ongoing banter about "sexting" that would provide a tenuous but well used arc for the show. Appearing on stage as a stripper more interested in her cell phone and texts than in removing her clothes for the audience, it takes a rather special message to get her excited about both. A friend of mine once said that the difference between burlesque and "stripping" was that strippers perform for the audience while burlesque perform for themselves. Well in this number Polly stripped for the audience but the texts for her alone. :-)

Lady Tatas presented an act that wins "Most Disturbing Performance" of the evening, and likely one of the most disturbing that I've seen. Period. Tatas comes out on stage in a long sleeved, short skirted ensemble, bedecked in sequins and performance a slightly awkward dance piece to Britney's Like A Circus. At first you're like...WTF? But then down she falls, and out comes Polly Wood as the "quintessential" stage mother, and as money dangles just above reach, and Tatas goes from princess to stripper you realize just what she is commenting on, and while the audience laughed...I shuddered. Well done Tatas, this was a great number, and as social commentary it was excellent.

Evilyn's second piece, proved that as with all aspects of pop culture... not everyone gets the reference, in this case hit television show LOST, Evilyn's number was wildly popular with the crowd, but unfortunately... I didn't know the show well enough to get it. However, after I described the act to my boy, he filled me in, and in retrospect I applaud Evilyn for hitting the nail on the head. I won't ruin any surprises, but if you are a Lost fan, you should definitely see this act. For those who don't know Lost, take a friend who does so they can fill you in. :-)

Sinner Saint's Pop Culture is an evening of performances referencing things well known, and esoteric, obvious and obscure. From favorite childhood Disney films, to Liz Taylor, to Tron... The Sinner Saints cover a lot of ground. It's a ride with several scenic detours, but the journey is both enjoyable and informative, and the destination illuminating.

Loves,
Fosse Jack

Academy of Burlesque: Boylesque 101

2011-03-20T14:35:00.000-07:00

Last night I had the opportunity to witness the debuts of several new performers at the graduation recital of the Academy of Burlesque's Spring Boylesque 101 course. This is the second group of "boys" that I have had the pleasure of watching come out of the Academy, and like all of the recitals I have seen, it was fun, funny and of course just a little bit dirty.

Hosted by Ernie Von Schmaltz, a fantastic example of a "boylesque" character, the recital featured 8 new performers. Rip Curl, Ben Darren Dunnett (best name of the night!), Wolfgang Dangerous (arrr!), J.J. Reigns, Billy Corazon, Piston Chambers, Mandroid, and Sir Eddie Van Glam. Each performer brought something unique to the table, and helped to expand the horizons and the definition of "neo-burlesque."

Most Likely to be Named Class Clown: Rip Curl opened the show with a very funny number, that made excellent use of props. Rip's goofy, dorky beach boy persona was a good choice to warm up the audience Decked out in scuba gear, including flippers, Rip took classic burlesque moves and "flippered" them on their heads. He also made good connections with the audience.

Most Likely to Go From Beast to Beauty: Wolfgang Dangerous (arrrr!!!) piece was a bit more "performance art" then popular burlesque, but as Ernie told us, boylesque is about expanding horizons and so that is more then okay! Combining subtle isolations, and an affectation of self-loathing, Wolfgang in acted the transformation of a Frankenstein/Wolfman type Beast into a gender bending Beauty. Self-acceptance, a popular theme in burlesque, was good motivation of Wolfgang's piece.

Most Likely to Do House Work in his Underwear: Ben Darren Dunnett, who in my opinion had the best name in show, gave the audience a sexy, goof ball, handy man, and showed us that anything, even fixing a stopped up drain can be an excuse to take off your clothes. Ben also had the most fun reveal in the show, wriggling out of his pants while bent over under a sink. Cute underwear!

Most Likely to Be Censored by Concerned Parents: J.J. Reigns' equestrian themed act was by far the dirtiest of the night. J.J. who dedicated this performance to her girlfriend, did things to a saddle (very cleverly rigged BTW) that made my very sexually positive boyfriend shudder, which I assure you is a compliment. I heard some question as to the "boylesque" appropriateness of this act, but I see it this way. J.J. emphasized and epitomized the dominant sexuality typically associated with the masculine. While she was clearly female (you can't hide assets like hers), her approach to sex was classically very male. Also, she had one of the best uses of the glitter cannon that I have ever seen. Brava diva.

Most Likely to Be A Hit Sci-Fi Convention: The award for best concept of the night, goes to Billy Corazon, whose mad scientist turned human fly turned glam rock gender bender, opened the second half of the recital. Billy's prop and set useage was excellent. Strategic use of strobe lights, music, and clever reveals earns this sensual scientist an A in my book.

Most Likely to Knock Out the Competition: Piston Chambers, the courses only other s(he) persona, was a plucky, athletic underdog. With excellent timing with the music, extensive prop use, and slapstick comedy, Piston's number was the most fun act of the night. I am particularly proud of Piston, as I consider his alter ego to be a dear friend, and I have to give her major props for creating a character that is so very different from the already known IMsL. I will totally root for this boxer boy in anything he does.

Most Likely to Make a Botanist Blush: Mandroid's "full metal yellow jacket" number was built on a great concept. A lonely bee, distraught over the loss of a companion, takes up the duty of pollinating a flower. It took be, I am ashamed to say, a bit to grasp the destination of Mandroid's journey but when he finally got there, the finish was very strong.

Most Likely to Make Me C...err, Drool: The final performance of the night was, in my opinion, the strongest. Sir Eddie Van Glam's metro-sexual persona, and suit lust was excellent executed. A reverse strip tease, he pulled it off and put it on with great confidence. Reverse teases can be difficult, and he did it well. His choreography was strong, and his character solid. Starting off with a teasing shot of his bare tush, and lovingly donning his undies, and suit, Sir Van Glam reminded by of a Barney from How I Met Your Mother, and the though of Neil Patrick Harris in next to nothing makes me a drool a little. Bravo!

Over all the evening was a lot of fun, and I am proud to see so many great concepts coming out of the boys/bois of Seattle. I hope that each of these performers continues to create, and to add their special somethings to the Seattle Burlesque Scene. I applaud the instructors of AoB, Indigo Blue, Waxie Moon, and Ernie and I thank them for nurturing these talents.

Loves,

Fosse Jack

STRIP POKER; A Trivia Game Show

2011-03-13T16:13:00.000-07:00

What is STRIP POKER? Merriam Webster defines this as: a poker game in which players pay their losses by removing articles of clothing, and list the first known use of the word as 1912. Jack & Wood takes this definition and turns it on its head!

We gather members of Seattle's burlesque community and pit them against each other in a battle of wits. Not only is this a poker game, but it's a game that requires players to answer trivia questions in order to gain cards and build their hands.

Once both players earn their hands, we compare. The highest hand wins, and so does the audience, because here is were we twist it. The WINNER of each round takes off an article of clothing. Pretty cool huh? You get to cheer (and maybe even help out) the burlesquer you want to see nekkid!

But STRIP POKER is more then just a fun burlesque-trivia show hybrid, it's also and opportunity to give to a great cause. Jack & Wood Productions is pleased to announce that we will be supporting The Lambert House on Capitol Hill, and a share of all profits earned by STRIP POKER will be donated to this awesome organization.

STRIP POKER is coming up, on Monday, March 28th. We will be gathering in The Grotto at The Rendezvous. The game will get started at 8:00pm, but we'll be opening the house at 7:00pm to give you a chance to mingle, have a couple of drinks and enjoy the unique atmosphere of this old speakeasy.

It's a fun show, and we hope you can make it!

Love,

Fosse Jack

Seattle's Limelight Loverboy

The Jack & Wood Show Poster!

2011-02-15T22:24:00.000-08:00

Jack & Wood 1st Anniversary Special!!!

2011-02-10T10:17:00.000-08:00

Meine fruende! Mes amis! Dear Friends!

Seven O'Clock, on Monday, February 28th, at The Jewelbox Theater and Rendezvous in Bell Town, The Jack & Wood Show will be celebrating its One Year Anniversary! That's right, our little show has hit it's first annual mile stone. It will be an evening of drama, comedy, music, dance and burlesque hosted by Fosse Jack, and Seattle's Tinseled Tart, Polly Wood, and it is shaping up to be one of the most varied, and decandently filled shows we've done to date!

This month we are featuring the sketch work of commediene and singer Talula Von Luptuous, reprising two of our favorite sketchs (including a segment of the hysterically funny salon sketch, Time for a Blowjob?) and offering up a new piece as well. Oscars' parody perhaps? We shall see! Jack & Wood's "Kinky Kindergarten Teacher", Miss Trixie Potter will be returning to the stage to delight us with "story time." And Talula herself with offer up a piece of classically sexy musical theater.

Helping us celebrate our anniversary is one of Polly's troupe mates, and dear friends, the woman whom I claim as my burlesque fairy godmother, The Modern Sexual Intellectual, Miss Jesse Belle Jones! Miss Jones will be bringing both a piece of sizzling burlesque and sharing with us a fantastically funny tribute to a fantastically funny performer. I won't ruin the surprise so you'll have to come see it for yourself!

All of this and more will grace our program as we make a toast to another year of Jack & Wood. We hope to see you there, and we hope you pass this invitation on to your friends!

With Love,
Fosse Jack
Seattle's Limelight Loverboy
The Jack & Wood Show: A Neo Vaudevillian CabaretMonday, February 28th
Door 6:45; Show 7:00pm
Tickets: $10 at the door

Produced by Jack & Wood Productions
www.jackandwood.com

Brought to you in partnership with...

The Rendezvous2322 2nd Ave, Seattle WA
http://www.rendezvousseattle.com/

SSB: Forces of Nature

2011-02-04T22:21:00.000-08:00

Forces of Nature, the show currently running at the Noc Noc on Thursday nights is a tour de force for the ladies of Sinner Saint Burlesque. Featuring a mix of new material, and a few old favorites, this show is sure to please their regular crowds as well as any newcomers. Hosted by Elsa Von Schmaltz, regular host of Seattle's NGR, this show is all about nature, the elements and the primal energy of the women on stage.

From SSB's newest member, Dona Dei Cuori demonstrating the effect that gravity has on apples... and brassieres, to its most senior member, Evilyn Sin Claire personifying the delicate beauty and raw sexual energy of spring, each member of Sinner Saint brings something unique to the table.

While each act, from Elsa's Bollywood performance, to Jesse Belle Jones' search for the perfect aphrodisiac, were superb, three numbers in particular are worthy of special attention.

The first is a classic strip tease, by Lady TaTas, who steps on stage in a full length mermaid gown. A scintillating array of orange and yellows dazzling our eyes, and a billowy blue parasol lends the image of sea foam. From her dress, and parasol various examples of vibrantly colored sea life are plucked off teasingly and tossed to the side. At one point, from her cleavage she pulls... well I'll let it be a surprise, but if you sit in the front row you might find yourself moistened. Embodying the vibrant life of a coral reef, Lady TaTas channels the energy of the sea with such conviction that even a pasty malfunction cannot distract her from the joie de vivre.

The second number of note, performed by Polly Wood, is a Graham-esque modern dance piece embodying the endless, whirling energy of a hurricane. Though she remains "fully clothed" through the entire piece, Polly gives hints, and glimpses of her nakedness beneath the flowing circular dress that hangs gracefully from her body. While not "burlesque" as it is typically understood this is a beautiful tribute to the art forms that have gone before and influenced the movement of neo-burlesque.

The third number is by SSB's own Wild Child, Evilyn Sin Claire. It is a number dedicated to one of the more powerful geologic forces in the world, the volcano. Evilyn smolders, smokes, erupts and flows, following in the arc of her act, the threat, explosion and cool down of a great volcano. Elements of her extensive belly dance background show through, as her hips, moving in a thick, fluid motion, give the audience the vision of a lava flow. The use of beautiful flame colored fans provides an exiting flurry of motion and color, giving us a volcanoclastic explosion. Finally, her majesty revealed, the volcano rests, but the subtle plumes of smoke remind us that she is not yet dormant.

There was a fourth act, performed by Jesse Belle Jones, that was particularly striking to me, and is likely my favorite of the piece performed over the course of the evening, but its place among the Forces of Nature still eludes me. Described as "crumbling" this piece featured elegant and torturous isolations, beautiful extensions, and a sparkling jewel studded gown. It seemed to be to embody the entropic forces of the world, or perhaps it represented the constant struggle and balance of the cosmos, stars and other forces pulling upon each other. There were elements of pain in the body language, but not pain cause by decay, rather the pain of creation. Or perhaps I am reading too much into it. I have been promised by Ms. Jones to be let in on mind behind the act, and until then it will be the mystery of the Forces of Nature that I will ponder longest.

As anyone who reads my blog will tell you, I am an SSB fanboy, perhaps my praise of the show is biased, regardless I strongly encourage you to see Forces of Nature while it is playing.

Loves,

Fosse Jack

The NocNoc, Down Town Seattle

http://www.clubnocnoc.com/

Sinner Saint Burlesque

http://www.sinnersaintburlesque.com/

Postmortem: RUDOLPH!

2010-11-30T21:04:00.000-08:00

Jack & Wood's 1st Annual Holiday Special: RUDOLPH! was a success. In retrospect, I see things that in the future I will do differently and things upon which I want to expand but I am pleased with the project in general. I am thankful for everyone who made this event possible:

A wonderful and supportive ensemble and crew: Ashley Coates (performance and props), Becky Peterson (performer), Colin Madison (stage manager, website), Emily Cappel (performer), Jason Studstill (techie), John Huddlestun (performer and choreographer), Kat Schroeder (performer), Qevin Smith (performer... and for keeping me sane through this process!), Rachel Lamb/Miles (performer), and Sam Petit (performer). And though he was not involved in RUDOLPH! thanks go to Brendan Mack for all his help and support this year.
Our fabulous guest artists: Adra Boo and Stella D'Letto
Everyone at the Rendezvous and Jewelbox Theater; who have been marvelously supportive this past year!
Dear friends who attended the show, many of whom have supported us from early on (Zack Wheeler, Steven Stone who each have attended nearly every Jack & Wood Show this year!)
New friends and fans of Jack & Wood.
Seattle Stage Right who has been a major support (and whose entire board of directors has been a part of Jack & Wood), and with whom I hope to continue a fruitful partnership.
Finally, my dear friend co-host and co-producer Miss Polly Wood. We have come a long way from our SPU days, and I have no doubt that we will go far.

There are others that I should thank, and if I have forgotten to mention you by name, you have my apologies, but know that every single person who has contributed to RUDOLPH! and to other installments of the Jack & Wood Show this year, you have my deepest thanks. You have all helped my dream come to life.

With a few more things to do to wrap up this year, and a gift to make out for Lambert House (everyone who came to RUDOLPH!, thank you for helping us make even a small donation to this great cause!), and final paperwork and numbers to work out, I have little to block my vision of lots of fun shows and opportunities to come.

With dates submitted to The Rendezvous for all of 2011, and plans to find a secondary venue (I would love for the kids at Lambert House to be able to see RUDOLPH! next year), there is much to do, and a look forward to the continued challenges I will face with Jack & Wood.

Loves!
~ Fosse Jack

RUDOLPH!

2010-11-13T14:52:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends and Readers,

So it has been ages since, I last added to this blog. Life, alas, has been crazy these past months. However, as the year comes ever closer to its conclusion, I am back in the game and I have some exciting news to share. As you know this year I have been throwing myself into both my solo performance career as Seattle's Limelight Loverboy, Fosse Jack, and alongside my dear friend and fellow burlesquer, Polly Wood, have been producing cabarets and variety shows on a monthly basis. The Jack & Wood Show: A Neo Vaudevillian Cabaret has had nine awesome shows this year, as well as our first charity event; STRIP POKER A Trivia Game Show. This month Polly and I are bringing a new show (the first of a Jack & Wood holiday tradition), and charity show to The Jewel Box Theater at the Rendezvous in BellTown...

RUDOLPH! is an adaptation of the old holiday, clay-mated special about Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, a movie that has long been a tradition in my family. This cheesy, politically incorrect, holiday feature though outdated still has a message that is important for us to hear today. Misfits have a place to.

Rudolph and his friend the misfit elf Herby are told that because they don't fit in, they don't belong. Rudolph and Herby set off on their own, and after meeting the jolly, and welcoming prospector Yukon Cornelius, journey to a land of misfits, all the while on the run from the Abominable Snow Monster of the North. But you cannot hide from your problems for ever and in time the misfits return, and in a twist become heroes.

With a stellar cast of Jack & Wood regulars and a couple of new faces, RUDOLPH! is guaranteed to entertain.

CAST:

Fosse Jack as Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer
Polly Wood as Hermione the Misfit Elf
Sam Petit as the Narrator
John Huddlestun as Donner/King Moonracer
Becky Peterson as Missus Donner
Qevin Smith as Fireball
Tulula Von Luptuous as Santa
Adra Boo as The Head Elf
Ashley Coates as The Charlie in the Box
Stella D'Letto as The Abominable Snow Monster of the North
The YES Sisters as The Depressed Dolly and her Girl.

With the recent suicides by LGBT teens throughout the country, I feel that RUDOLPH! is especially poignant this holiday, and Polly agrees with me. We will be donating a portion of the ticket sales to Lambert House, a support organization that works with LGBT youths.

Come join Polly Wood, our star studded cast and myself on November 29th (7:00pm AND 8:30pm) for Jack & Wood's First Annual Holiday Special; RUDOLPH! and help us start a new holiday tradition.

Love,
Fosse Jack

Details:
Date: November 29th, 2010
Times: 1st Showing 7:00pm, 2nd Showing 8:30pm (21+) .
Cost: $15 Door/$12 Pre-Sale (http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/137318)
Place: The Rendezvous JewelBox Theater, 2322 2nd Avenue, Seattle, WA 98121
Accessibility: Wheelchair Accessible, call 206-218-9901 for front seating.

GAZM Preview

2010-08-01T22:12:00.000-07:00

Last night I had the opportunity to perform at Café Metropolitan with the boys of GAZM, Seattle’s premiere boylesque troupe. With the exception of the no-show-host, the show went down without a hitch, and was well received.

Guest artist, Jinkxs Monsoon stepped up to the bat and hosted the show on the fly with a mixture of wit, and charm that the audience took to very quickly. As a performer, Jinkxs blends stellar cabaret pipes, and energetic style of dance, with a touch of musical theater camp that I enjoyed greatly. Her rendition of All That Jazz was amazing, and I want to be her back up boy sometime!

The remaining guest artists included Jack Hammer, and Captain Jakalof, two fantastic performers with very different styles. Jack Hammer is a solid bit of beefcake, tall, broad shouldered with classic All American good looks. His Private Eye number is an excellent story, which he tells start to finish with finesse, and sex appeal. The Captain, or in this case his cousin Aspen Switch, is a chic geek with some killer dance moves. His pop and lock routine as Aspen Switch is a clock-work precision piece of comedy, equally pleasing and teasing to the audience.

The four boys of GAZM performed next with Jean DuJour starting the set. Jean combines natural grace, Raver sensibilities and mouth watering sex appeal. He will take you on a bizarre journey that can leave you feeling good, excited, sleepy or at times slightly nauseous (like any recreational pharmaceutical one should be prepared when you experience Jean). His costumes are imaginative patch work pieces that could be described as haute or hot depending on your point of view, his prop use is equally imaginative, and his daringness often crosses the line of propriety. Art is risky, and Jean will gladly take those risks.

Paris Original, the Balletic Burlesque Performer presented a gorgeous piece en pointe that would be equally praised on both the classical and the burlesque stages, and set both the blood and heart aflame (and is apparently “SO Creole”). Capturing the ecstatic energy of mourning, Paris de-clothes first to tease and then to show respect for the departed. This piece is on YouTube but as one audience member noted last night, it can only be fully appreciated in person.

The Luminous Pariah offered up a piece of dystopian delicacy, a post apocalyptic themed number that combined fantastic costuming, a concise and interesting story, and a breathtaking physical mastery. It is his ability to balance his intensely creative imagination with a supreme self-control that makes the Luminous Pariah one of the top performers in Seattle. I have said it before, but he WILL go far.

EmpeROAR Fabulous!!! The creator of GAZM and the brains of the operation closed out the show, with an exercise themed number that spoke of many a skinny boy’s desire to get in shape, bulk up, etc. and the frustration with the process. EmpeROAR is a versatile performer, a talented singer/songwriter, a skilled EMCEE, and an utterly devoted artist with an unashamed and fearless stage presence.

Last night’s performance was a fund raiser for GAZM’s upcoming World Tour Show at the Re-Bar in mid September, and as an appetizer to the main event, was very promising. Merde mes amis! Stick with it and you will do well.

Love, Fosse Jack

Lustfully Legendary

2010-08-01T21:57:00.000-07:00

Sinner Saint Burlesque’s current show, Lustfully Legendary is a collection of pieces paying homage to those women in history (and fiction) who have inspired the performers. SSB is my favorite burlesque troupe, and the women who are part of it are all beautiful, talented and smart performers; that being said this is not the strongest compilation that SSB has presented. The concept behind the show is almost too broad, and at times it felt like a mash up of two different shows, one legendary and the other mythical. Criticism aside, there are some very strong performances that deserve recognition.

Lolita “Tatas” Valentino presented tributes to two legendary lusty ladies of history; first, Betty Grable and then, 60’s burlesque performer, Sandra Storm. As Grable, Lolita personified the playful energy of the early pin-up girls, teasing the audience and helping us remember those sexy pioneers who bared their midriffs for the good of the country. As Storm, she played up the comedic aspect of burlesque. Like Storm, Valentino is known for her facial expressions and the homage was both entertaining and sexy.

As Mata Hari, Evilyn Sin Claire was chillingly beautiful, and moved me to the brink of tears. For those of you who have not experienced Evilyn’s belly dance, it is a spiritual experience. Her movements stoke the fires of heart, her moments of stillness catch the breath and the undulations of her body coax the audience into a state of physical excitement. Later in the show, her performance as Sakhmet, the Egyptian goddess of vengeance and war once again evoked in me a state of awe (boarding on fear) that would have me bow in reverence. I must admit that as I was leaving the Noc Noc I was nurturing a fantasy of being a leashed harem boy….don’t tell Evilyn, I’m pretty sure she’d eat me alive.

Polly Wood paid homage to Hollywood beauty/legend Liz Taylor as Cleopatra. Polly capitalizes on her acting chops, telling stories with her acts. A frustrated Liz Taylor, takes a break from getting into character to indulge in her favorite obsession…diamonds. Later on, Polly shares her love for a childhood heroine/damsel in distress, when she performs as her favorite fairy tale princess. Funny, beautiful, and precise, Polly is a master showman.

Jesse Belle Jones performed first as her musical namesake, though I am at a loss to figure out which historical beauty she was referencing... more research is needed, she also performed a new act based on another fairy tale. I will not give away the surprise but allow me to say that even unclothed Jesse possesses a regal bearing, and poise that puts most real royalty to shame! My Otter and I are both crushing on you a little Jesse!

Like most of her comrades, SSB newcomer Dona Dei Cuori presented one historic figure and one mythical entity. Her tribute to Amelia Earhart was well done, though I would have liked to see more done with the ‘wings.’ I especially liked the strip-tease, dress-tease, strip-tease progression, I like it when performers can make getting dressed sexy. As Terpsichore, the Greek Muse of Choral Dance, Dona is cute and funny. My one criticism and Dona please take this in a positive light, but there was no reason for you to take your clothes off. The number would be funny, and effective fully clothed… maybe you should add some classic stripper music into your mix? The addition would also differentiate your act from the “History of Dance” video that was all the rage a couple of years back. If your purpose was to emulate that video, rethinking the points where you remove pieces might be a good idea. That aside Dona has, and continues to show a great deal of potential as a performer and I am excited to watch her progress.

I also want to give special recognition and props to host, Nicole Lucas who dealt with a VERY rowdy crowd with professionalism and comedic grace.

With a little tweaking Lustfully Legendary could be an awesome piece of theatrical burlesque. As it is, SSB presents a very enjoyable evening that is sure to entertain. I do, very much encourage my readers to check it out, and I will continue to look forward to seeing more of Sinner Saint and there works.

Love, Fosse Jack

L’Edition Francaise

2010-07-15T10:34:00.001-07:00

The “living, breathing, work of art” creates a living, breath French arte film that delighted the senses, boggled the mind, and evoked laughter, tears, and more than one arousal.

Anyone who has read my blog knows that I am a Lily Verlaine fan-boy, and last night’s show at The Triple Door gives me another chance to profess my love and admiration for this artistic goddess and her work.

In celebration of Bastille Day, Lily brought to her audience a series of risqué, comedic and beautiful dance pieces performed to the works of a number of smoky French voices. On the whole it was different. It was beautiful. It was risky.

It is always a risk when you do something different. When people go to a Lily Verlaine show they expect to see beautiful girls, and handsome boys, dancing and taking their clothes gracefully, and dare I say tastefully. Lily is a master of gently pushing her audience, teasing, pulling back and teasing again, without pushing so hard as to turn her audiences off. L’Edition Francaise is no exception to this expectation, but it goes beyond that. It pushes the audience in a way I have never experienced, forcing them to immerse themselves completely in the sensations or risk getting lost in the subtly of the artistic statements, the blinding collage of stimulation, and persistent language barrier. It forces the audience to think like the French, and not like Americans. Risky.

I cannot speak for the entire audience but for this viewer the experience was amazing. Letting go of my own thoughts and preconceptions, allowing myself to sink into the story that I could only partially understand was a refreshing exercise in surrender. However, I am at a loss to describe why this show affected me like it did. Perhaps it is something that cannot be explained, but only experienced. Or perhaps the sensation of being forced out of my Ameri-centric thought patterns was more than my brain could handle and still leave room for rational thought. Whatever the case, it is truly a shame that this was a onetime event.

From the tricycle pedaling mime pick-up artiste, a lip syncing ensemble, to a cute as a button baby shark, spirited go-go dancers, and a Pilobolus-esque town car, to handsome men with cigarettes in hand, beautiful girls sunbathing, and a beautifully choreographed gang-bang (how French), to a fantastic pas de deux between Paris Original and Kylie Shea, and a sensational finale that left me speechless and on the brink of tears (and my date thoroughly confused), Lily Verlaine’s Night Cap L’Edition Francaise was without a doubt something I will remember for a long time. Brava divas!

Love ~ Fosse Jack

SHINE: A Burlesque Musical

2010-07-11T12:55:00.000-07:00

I sit down to a pot of Assam Tea, a pitcher of cream ready and chilled and I look out upon a mundane world, and its people walking along the street, a post sun-gasm weariness about many of them. They walk through a grey world, and I wonder if they can see the beauty around them, just waiting to come out.

Everyone is beautiful. Everyone is sexy. That is the message of Shine: A Burlesque Musical now playing at Theater off Jackson, and that is the truth the neo-burlesque movement espouses. Forgive me a moment for being preachy in what should be a raunchy review of a fantastic show, but I think it is this belief in the beauty inherent in what the world calls undesirable that draws me to burlesque. Like spinning straw into gold, or turning water to wine, burlesque can be a miraculous.

Shine A Burlesque Musical had the potential to be so many things. As my background lies in musical theater, I know that the genre can be awesome, average, or just plain awful. The same can be said about burlesque, I have seen performers who stunned me with grace, excited me with sensuality, and challenged me with daringness. I have also seen performances that left me feeling nauseous (which in some cases is the point), or worse indifferent to the performer. To put the two genres together, a passion of my own, is a risky, and dangerous cocktail, one that Shine mixed, shook, and served with gusto and skill.

The music is catchy, drawing on numerous styles of musical theatre. The lyrics are at times surprisingly clever, and over all well written. If I were to draw links between Shine and other musicals I would say take two parts Cabaret, one part Rent, one part Urinetown and a sprinkle of Spamalot and Young Frankenstein, poured over The Rocky Horror Show, and that’s what you’ve got. The scenic design is simple, effective and actually quite elegant. My one critique is the inclusion of the Cat statue, whose symbolic ties to good luck and fortune are not lost on me, but whose presence on an otherwise simple set was distracting.

The lighting design was beautiful and well executed, and the sound design while obviously canned did not distract from the rest of the show. That being said, having worked with canned orchestration before, I must say bravo to all the performers. You HAVE to be on because the musicians/music director isn’t there to help you. However, should the budget ever allow I would love to see this show with live musicians, some of the numbers hinted at grandiose and very impressive dance-music merging which didn’t quite hit the high notes that they could have.
As this is a burlesque musical two aspects of design in particular must be applauded. The costumes where gorgeous; glittery, sequined and glamorous where they needed to be, and at other times distressed and sympathetic reflecting the hard times which performers, especially fringe artists, often face.

Inga Ingénue, local burlesque artist and fabulous choreographer provided the moves for this show and her hard work shows. The choreo was uniformly professional, sexy, graceful, and dare I say tasteful? And props to all of the performers because everything was very well executed, and a few individuals in particular left this dancer somewhat envious of both their opportunities and talent.

Production elements and design having been covered I can move on to the performance itself. Brava divas! I thoroughly enjoyed this show, and found myself slipping into the story rather than analyzing details objectively. The ensemble comprised of highly talented performers, who brought their own flavors to this feast of eye candy. From the energy and precision of Trojan Original, the natural grace of Paris Original, and the masterful stage presence of the Luminous Pariah, to the powerful sensuality of Jesse Belle Jones, comedic mastery and dedication of Polly Wood, camptastic performance of Elsa Von Schmaltz, and coiled spring energy of Roxie Moxie the ensemble ROCKED!

The leads where all equally talented and amazing, taking chances on stage that many actors would shy from. I do not have the words to describe everything but I will make special mention of two of the lead performers. Cass King was funny, sympathetic and sexy as Shine, the epitome of burlesque royalty. Dedicated to the art form she inherited, and dedicated to the family she provided a home for. Adra Boo as the sensual, large and in charge Lulu was amazing. Her vocal performances stunning, and her bawdy stage presence worked perfectly in this show (an actor’s triumph as this was her first burlesque performance!) The numbers in which Cass and Adra performed together where especially enthralling.

I could go on and on, and really the cast deserves it, but my little review has already drawn on too long so I will end this by saying, if you have not seen it yet, do so. Shine A Burlesque Musical is running for one more week, Thursday through Sunday 7:30pm, with 10:30 shows on Friday and Saturday. You can buy tickets at (http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/111305). And for more information about Shine, it’s creators and future check out: http://www.shinemusical.com. I will be there again this Thursday, and I hope to see you there. In this performer's opinion it is a must see show.

Love, Fosse Jack

FOSSE JACK AND POLLY WOOD PRESENT:

2010-06-06T13:32:00.000-07:00

THE JACK & WOOD SHOW: A NEO-VAUDEVILLIAN CABARET!

Pride doesn't have to end with the weekend! On Monday, June 28th, Fosse Jack and Seattle's Tinseled Tart, Polly Wood, present THE JACK & WOOD SHOW: A Neo-Vaudevillian Cabaret!

Hosted by Fosse Jack and Polly Wood, it will be an evening of music, dance, burlesque and original sketches (including a Jack & Wood Original Series Roomies!) as performed by our hosts, the J&W Ensemble, and guest performers: The Cougar Trio, and Wiggy Starrdust

THE JACK & WOOD SHOW returns to the intimate JewelBox Theater, at The Rendezvous in Belltown. Full food and beverage service is available within the JewelBox! Come nurse those Pride-induced hangovers, and help us kick off the summer!

Details:
Date: June 28th 2010
Times: 8:00, doors at 7:30 (21+) .
Cost: $13 at the door (Cash only)
Place: The Rendezvous JewelBox Theater, 2322 2nd Avenue, Seattle, WA 98121
Accessibility: Wheelchair Accessible, call 206-218-9901 for front seating.

Fosse Jack's Bio

2010-06-04T17:28:00.000-07:00

Fosse Jack (James/Jim Out of Costume), The Limelight Loverboy, has been performing since he was old enough to feel a beat. His first appearance on stage was crawling on all fours as a lamb in his church Christmas pageant at the age of 6 and to this day, he often finds himself on his knees when the spotlight hits him.

An actor and dancer by trade, Fosse earned his BA in Theater Arts (and Christian Theology, believe it or not) at Seattle Pacific University in 2004 and shortly there-after entered the professional theater scene in Seattle.

He has played sensuous, conniving devils (Nickels, JB; Wormwood, The Screwtape Letters), noble radicals (Haimon, Antigone; Willem Tenboom, The Hiding Place), sinister fanatics (Nazi Officer, The Hiding Place; Herr Zeller, The Sound of Music), a loveable sex-toy (Rocky, The Rocky Horror Show), as well as dancing cowboys, flamboyant waiters, stoic gangsters, and snotty aristocrats in a variety of musicals. He became a burlesque fan after watching Polly Wood (Delish) for the first time in 2008, and made his own debut at EmpeROAR Fabulous’ benefit show, Fresh Air in 2010. He finds the ‘alternative’ stage as much to his liking as the main stages of SMT, SSR, and TNW.

Fosse Jack counts his namesake, Bob Fosse, as his most important artistic influence, Lady Gaga as his Muse, and Jesse Belle-Jones as his fairy godmother.

VEGAS OR BUST! An "Exotic World" Fundraiser

2010-05-29T15:36:00.000-07:00

Many of my favorite events are those where I come away from it having learned something I had not known before, of course beautiful and talented performers make such events even more enjoyable and such was the case with VEGAS OR BUST! at West Hall @ Oddfellows, Friday May 28th.

Hosted by the Academy of Burlesque Headmistress, the Twirly Girl Miss Indigo Blue, and featuring performances by the Golden Glamazon, Sydni Deveraux, the Wild Child Evilyn Sin Claire, the Tempting Temple of Taipei The Shanghai Pearl, and the Tinseled Tart Polly Wood, this was an excellent showcase of talent, and by the audience responses a definite crowd pleaser.

For those of you who do not know, the purpose of this event was to raise money to help cover the expenses of sending these Seattle performers to represent the Emerald City and it's vibrant burlesque community at the Exotic World reunion and pageant, as performers, witnesses, and in the case of Sydni Deveraux, competitors (merde mon cher!).

Exotic World, the Burlesque Hall of Fame, is a museum of burlesque memorabilia was founded by burlesque star Dixie Evans. Miss Evans started her Exotic World museum in Helendale, CA and shared her collection of burlesque history with the world; articles donated by the likes of Sally Rand, Lily St. Cyr and more. In 2007 Dixie moved the entire collection to Las Vegas where Seattle's glittered girls will be convoying towards this week.

Of the performances last night (all excellent) two in particular stood out as particularly exceptional.

The first was Miss Deveraux's fan dance, which she will be performing in the competitions at Exotic World. For those of you who have never seen Sydni perform or met her in person... Damn, girl is tall! And gorgeous! And talented! Striding out on stage in her platform heels (bringing her to some 6'5" ish), great peacock fans in hand, and golden-brown complexion shinning; she was a goddess in the spotlight. She will go far, and I know she will make a spectacular impression upon her peers in Vegas.

The second performance was a recreation of a number by burlesque legend Ricci Cortez, the Original Sleepy Time Girl, as constructed and performed by Miss Indigo Blue. This number was cute, beautiful and sexy all at the same time (usually a performer can only master two of these at a time, which shows just how good Indigo is). Indigo Blue will be performer, as Ricci Cortez, at the Legend's night at Exotic World and I only wish that I could see her in action there.

I must say that I envy these women their opportunity next week. Not to perform so much, but to see, and to learn from all of the great performers that will be there. The legends, the heroes and the peers of the burlesque world will gather and the world will be a brighter place for just a little bit.

Love! ~ Fosse Jack

Sinner Saint Burlesque presents "VAUDEVILLE!"

2010-05-21T17:53:00.000-07:00

Opening Night

As I sit down to write this review I find myself at a loss. How can you describe something which is best enjoyed in the moment, where the unexpected is so much a part of the experience? To describe in any detail the acts in Sinner Saints' new show would almost be a disservice, yet I feel the need to say more than just 'go see it' which you should!

Since I first started going to their shows about a year ago, Sinner Saint has been my favorite burlesque troupe, and several of the members of SSB rank among my favorite performers in Seattle. Talent, creativity and masterful stage presence... These women have it all.

From Nicole Lucas' wit, self deprecating, fearless humor, to Evilyn Sin Claire's powerful sensuality, smoldering eyes and aura of latent danger to Lolita 'Tatas' Valentino's natural charm, sass and affected awkwardness, to Polly Wood's class and expert versatility, there is something in this show for everyone.

While all of the women at Sinner Saint are noteworthy, I feel that this show highlights the talents of three in particular.

Dona Dei Cuori is a newcomer to SSB. Dona has shown herself equal to her peers in both talent and comedic timing. Her CanCan number is particularly enjoyable and her glove removal and boa wrangling in her strip tease act was awesome. I look forward to seeing what else she will bring to the table.

Jesse Belle Jones spreads her wings in this show highlighting talents only briefly explored before. Both her acts are flawless and as the Bitchy Belle of Savannah G A she is a solid class act. It is her non burlesque (in the modern sense) that is why I urge you to pay attention to the Modern Sexual Intellectual. I won't ruin the surprise but I fell in love with her a little because of it!

The final performer I will highlight is the Pint Size Powerhouse, Whiskey Bliss. I first saw Whiskey as the Punk Rockcoon in Animalia and I was very impressed, this show bumps my opinion up a couple of notches above a bar set high to start. Both her burlesque performances and her vocal (girl's got pipes!) one were superb. My favorite thing about her performances, in both cases, is the expressiveness of her face. She is hysterical!

My words do the ladies at Sinner Saint little justice but let me make clear my enthusiastic love for this troupe! Seriously, they are my favorite for a reason. I hope that you get a chance to see this show. It is an homage to the founding of burlesque and as I said there is something for everyone at VAUDEVILLE!

Sinner Saint Burlesque
Thursdays 9PM Door/9:30 Show

NocNoc
1516 2nd Ave
Seattle, WA

http://www.sinnersaintburlesque.com/#

FOSSE JACK AND POLLY WOOD PRESENT:

2010-05-02T17:40:00.000-07:00

THE JACK & WOOD SHOW: A NEO-VAUDEVILLIAN CABARET!

On Monday, May 24th, Fosse Jack and Seattle's Tinseled Tart, Polly Wood, present THE JACK & WOOD SHOW: A Neo-Vaudevillian Cabaret!

Hosted by Fosse Jack and Polly Wood, it will be an evening of music, dance, burlesque and original sketches (including the ongoing Roomies! saga) as performed by our hosts, the J&W Ensemble, and special guest Sam Petit. This month, in partnership with Seattle Stage Right, Jack & Wood is also excited to present a sneak peak of the upcoming West Coast premier of BJ: A Musical Romp.

THE JACK & WOOD SHOW returns to the intimate JewelBox Theater, at The Rendezvous in Belltown. Full food and beverage service is available within the JewelBox! Join Jack & Wood at Seattle’s newest monthly cabaret!

Details:
Date: May 24th 2010
Times: 8:00, doors at 7:30 (21+) .
Cost: $13 at the door (Cash only)
Place: The Rendezvous JewelBox Theater, 2322 2nd Avenue, Seattle, WA 98121
Accessibility: Wheelchair Accessible, call 206-218-9901 for front seating.

SEAF 2010

2010-05-02T13:18:00.001-07:00

I had the opportunity to attend the Seattle Erotic Arts Festival on Saturday, May 1st (thanks to Polly Wood for the ticket!), and experience for the first time the wide melange of psycho-sexual curio that SEAF has to offer. I will keep my comments on the visual art brief. Very little spoke to me on a personal level, but to paraphrase a quote from the festival: one man's pornography is another man's erotica. Fair enough. Suffice it to say that many facets of sexuality were represented, from artistic nudes, to abstract and grotesque nudes, to any number of fetish themed pieces; including piercing (the woman's body turned into a harp was amazing!), scaring, of course varying degrees of BDSM.

The first performance of the evening was Naked Girls Reading; hosted by Elsa Von Schmaltz, with Jesse Belle Jones, Ember Divine, Polly Wood, and Heidi Von Haught as readers. For those of you who have not seen NGR, it is exactly what it sounds like. Naked...Girls...Reading. The selections they read at SEAF were actually pieces: poetry, short stories, and even a play, submitted by individuals to SEAF. The play about the elusive G-Spot as read by Polly and Jesse Belle was my favorite. I do have a question, something I just don't understand, why is violence, humiliation and non-consent so appealing? I don't get it. Pain, I can understand, but violence... it is foreign to me. Content aside, I enjoyed NGR and I look forward to attending their monthly shows at West Hall, Oddfellows Building.

There were other performances, pieces done on the many beds scattered throughout the exhibition hall. There was a rope demo on one, Polly Wood performed a burlesque piece on another, and people frequented another (I played on it as well) where they could play while a solarized video camera captured their movements and then projected them on a wall to add to be viewed whilst performing. Hot!

The warm up act to the main-stage performance was a flash (in more then one meanhing of the word) mob performed by small groups on the crowded dance floor. Stripping down to red underwear and dancing suggestively with their partners, the groups played while the crowd watched. My favorite was a trio (two guys, and a girl) who played off in a less crowded corner. Their was a bit more subdued but there was a genuine quality that I appreciated. Of course at the end they all picked up there clothes and went on as if nothing happened. Bummer! I don't believe sex should be work, but then again...that is one person's view.

The main stage performance was, pardon my English, FUCKING FANTASTIC!!! Stars from the burlesque community (largely Seattle) performed in an intricate, beautifully orchestrated, story exploring sexuality, kinks and the celebrating that we are all 'normal, kinky, freaks." I cannot do justice to individual performances, I simply do not have the vocabulary to express my appreciation. For most of the show, I stood, in silent awe.

The star studded cast included: Buttons DuPrise (sp?), the Shanghai Pearl as a gorgeous mermaid captured by the Twisted Monk (Sick & Twisted for sure), Fuschia FOXX, Waxie Moon, Paula the Swedish Housewife, Inga Ingenue, Miss Indigo Blue, Paris Original, Liza Rose (her umbrella number was AMAZING!), Dirty Martini, Sydni Deveraux (how she got her top off still eludes me, masterful misdirection!), the Luminous Pariah (I normally don't enjoy lip sync, but damn, this one is good!) and Jean du Jour. I am sure I forgot somebody, and I apologize. You were all fantastic!

One thing of particular note in the performance was the on going tale of the stag as told, in part by Jean du Jour in stag helm, but largely by a crack team of puppeteers. The story told was one of a majestic stag (there is something hot about the power and grace in that creature) being shot, and caught by hunters, then rescued by a maiden. Through the various movements of the story the maid and the stag begin a flirtatious game of forbidden love which culminates in a wild, and masterfully pantomimed bout of love making. Her glitter spray climax, followed by the impressive stag cum shot (I'll never think of silly spray the same way again) added a level of over the top comedy to the beauty of the piece. Loved it!

The performance ended with a guest appearance by Dan Savage, and a parade through the audience of the performers. Call me old fashioned, but I love a story with a good morale or lesson and the saga of Buttons and his Auntie Babu, had a good one. You only have one life to live so live it, and love it. If everyone could follow this, I truly think the world would be better off.

My hat off to all the performer at SEAF 2010. I am honored to belong to a performance community so full of talent. I only hope that I can one day add something of worth to it.

Ladies and Gentlemen, the chance to see the beauty of Auntie Babu's Curious Cabinet is passed for this year, but keep your eyes open for other opportunities to see the performers I have mentioned here. I guarantee you, they are worth it. Grace, sensuality, comedy, drama, power, sex, glitter, pasties... they have something for everyone to enjoy and remember. I know I will remember SEAF 2010, and I look forward to next year. Who knows, I may be lucky and get a chance to participate!

~ Fosse Jack

2010-02-04T22:56:00.000-08:00

Contact: Fosse Jack
Email: fossejack@gmail.com
Phone: 206-218-9901

FOSSE JACK AND POLLY WOOD PRESENT:

THE JACK & WOOD SHOW: A NEO-VAUDEVILLIAN CABARET!

On Monday, February 22nd, Seattle burlesque community new comer Fosse Jack, teams up with Seattle’s own Tinseled Tart, Polly Wood, to present THE JACK & WOOD SHOW: A Neo-Vaudevillian Cabaret!

This evening will feature burlesque performances by Fosse Jack, and Polly Wood, music by Talula Von Luptuous and Miss Ashley Coates, comedic sketches by the Ensemble, joined by Biggie Mack and John Huddelstun, and music and burlesque by special guest artiste EmpeROAR Fabulous!!!

THE JACK & WOOD SHOW will premiere in the intimate JewelBox Theater, at The Rendezvous in Belltown. Join Fosse and Polly for the pilot performance of Seattle’s newest cabaret!

Details:
Date: February 22, 2010
Times: 8:00, doors at 7:30 (21+) .
Cost: $10 at the door (Cash only)
Place: The Rendezvous JewelBox Theater, 2322 2nd Avenue, Seattle, WA 98121

Accessibility: Wheelchair Accessible, call 206-218-9901 for front seating.

Lily Verlaine's Nightcap

2010-01-31T02:03:00.000-08:00

Lily Verlaine is the personification of an Eros kissed Terpsichore… Seattle is lucky to be graced with a whole contingent of Burlesque Muses (Miss indigo Blue, Misster Waxie Moon, and others); but the goddess of dance has always held a special place in my heart and so too does Miss Verlaine. The short and sweet burlesque show, Lily Verlaine’s Nightcap at the Triple Door was by far one of the most satisfying shows I have seen in a while. Not surprising as Lily has a tendency to breathe divinity into every show she touches.

I’m sorry… is my fan boy showing?

The show opened with Lily herself performing a beautiful piece in a sea-foam colored ensemble (by Danial Hellman, whom I had the pleasure of being seated next to), and yards upon yards of black feathered strands. The number was classically beautiful, sensual and luxurious, without a hint of lewdness; a perfect opener and a great way to warm up an audience (in more ways than perhaps?).

Enter, Seattle’s premiere fancy lady, Ben De La Crème the hostess of the evening. As with Lily, I fell in love with Ben the first time she walked onto stage; clad only in her curly blonde hair, nude body suit, and Edenic innocence. Ben’s sense of comic timing, and brand of self-deprecating/suggestive humor make for a stellar emcee performance.

Moving on.

Nightcap marked the first opportunity I have had to watch Fuchsia Foxx perform. Now folks, I am ‘gayer than laughter’ to quote R&H, but there is something about belly dance that strikes a primal chord in me; and The Hot Pink Exotic Machine struck that chord beautifully. Her physical mastery is truly breathtaking, and left me a little hot under the collar.

Speaking of physical mastery brings me to the next performers: The Aerialistas! I have seen these acrobatic angels perform on a number of occasions and they never fail to impress. Their triangular trapeze act was fantastic, and later on Miss Stella Framboise’s solo performance on the silks was equally beautiful.

The fierce feline Kitten La Rue is another performer that I have enjoyed watching in the past. Mind you I have a soft spot for furry numbers, so it is little wonder that I truly enjoyed this ‘pussy’ cat’s work. Oh and her hula hoop work was amazing!

Now forgive this gay boy’s gushing over the next act, hands down my favorite of the evening. The pas de trios between the Luminous Pariah, Paris Original and Trojan Original was by far the HOTEST thing I have ever seen on stage. Combining a modernesque style of acrobatic dance, brilliant storytelling, and stunning sensuality, this trio performed at a level I would not be surprised to see in Zoomanity or any other Cirque spectacular.

I have seen Pariah perform before and am always impressed by his creativity and mastery of execution; and have had the pleasure of seeing Paris perform in House of Thee Unholy III where I was smitten by his grace and fluidity. Trojan (Paris’ brother) was a new and delightful experience, bring a solidity and sense of grounding to the other two performers. Three awesome parts combined to make a truly exceptional piece of art. You will go far gentlemen, together or separate you have the talent to make it as far as you choose to go. Tonight you blew my mind (and almost made other things blow) and I applaud you!

The evening closed of course with a nightcap performance by Lily Verlaine and special guest Mr Ernie Von Schmaltz (who also appeared in Lily's second number, a ballet class gone wild!). A delightfully suggestive piece involving strands of pearls, a satee, silken sheets, a champagne bottle, cigarette and mustache… if you haven’t seen it then let your imagination run wild.

As I said before as truly satisfying evening, one that I wish I could relive again. Brava divas!

2010-01-08T14:47:00.000-08:00

EMPEROAR FABULOUS!!! PRESENTS: FRESH AIR
Benefit for the Bonnie J. Addario Lung Cancer Foundation

On Saturday, January 16th,2010, EmpeROAR Fabulous!!! will be producing, performing in, and emceeing “EmpeROAR Fabulous!!! presents: Fresh Air”, A Benefit for the Bonnie J. Addario Lung Cancer Foundation in loving memory of Josie Moggia. The show will feature a cast of 22, performers who have refreshing takes on their art form, as well as some fresh new faces ready to make a mark on the Seattle scene. All proceeds will go to the Bonnie J. Addario Lung Cancer Foundation.

Music will be supplied by Funk/Soul/R&B band Soul Kata, Holly Small, Stella Rose, and EmpeROAR Fabulous!!!. The evening will also feature Seattles Premiere Fancy Lady, Ben DeLaCreme. Burlesque and Boylesque performances will be furnished by local luminaries Ultra, Lucky Penny, Iva Handfull, Roxie Moxie, Jacqueline Hyde, EmpeROAR Fabulous!!!, Queen Clam, Scandal from Bohemia & Hoi Polloi, Jean du Jour, Pinky Shines, Wiggy Stardust, and Mickey Doe Eyes. Fosse Jack and Grahamorous will be having their Boylesque debuts.

The show will be held Saturday, January 16th, 2010, at The OddFellows West Hall, 915 E. Pine Street in Seattle. Doors will open at 8, with festivities beginning at 9, and going past midnight. Advanced tickets can be purchased for $20 at http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/93725 or $25 at the door.

EmpeROAR Fabulous!!! is a Seattle based Singer-Songwriter, Boylesque Performers, Event Producer, and Instructor. He has been seen on NBC’s “America’s Got Talent”, and has performed in Paris, Rome, Vancouver, and extensively in Seattle. He was a panelist at BurlyCon ’09, a National Burlesque Convention, and teaches private musical and performance lessons. He has produced several sold out events in the Seattle area.

Land of the Sweets: The Burlesque Nutcracker

2009-12-16T17:37:00.000-08:00

Last year I saw Land of the Sweets: The Burlesque Nutcracker at the Triple Door and instantly feel in love. When I took a group of friends to see it this year, it was just as magical. The work produced by Lily Verlaine and Jasper McCann represents some of the best the Seattle Burlesque Community has to offer. A jazzy, sexy, unconventional take on a Christmas classic, Land of the Sweets has become my new holiday tradition.

The son of a ballet dancer and choreographer, I grew up watching The Royal Ballet’s Nutcracker on VHS. I would sit enraptured as beautiful dancers in gorgeous costumes moved across the stage with grace and finesse. I loved the Columbine Doll, and Harlequin is still one of my dream roles. I usually skipped through the middle part, where the Nutcracker is taking Clara to the court of the Sugar Plum Fairy; while beautiful, the regal and repetitive dance of the angels was a little too formal for my tastes.

When the Nutcracker and Clara arrived in the Land of Sweets, I would once again be enthralled. I would watch Tea, Chocolate, the Russian Sweets and Coffee (my favorite!) dance for the entertainment of Sugar Plum and her guests; and I cheered when Drosselmeir’s nephew would awaken from his cursed state, while an oblivious Clara would fall fast asleep.

When I came to Seattle some eight years ago, and I saw PNB’s version of the Nutcracker, I found my childhood memories disappointed. While beautiful in parts, PNB’s exotic voyage seemed less magical to me then the visions of sugar plums that I grew up with. Between you and me, I HATE the Peacock. The Arabian number is my favorite piece… I mean come on, three (hot) muscular guys dancing with a very sensual Arabian princess. What’s not to love?

Land of the Sweets does not disappoint. Though not what I grew up with, the Burlesque Nutcracker captures the energy and the fantasy that I loved as a child. High energy, fun, graceful, and at times a hair uncomfortable (Waxie Moon is just too good at what he does!) this has become one of my favorite shows.

Featuring a stellar cast of burlesque artistes and dancers, there is not a weak link in the show. From Jasper’s witty banter and excellent lounge singer vocals, to the expert tassel spinning of Miss Indigo Blue, to the grace and strength of The Aerialistas, and sheer beauty of Lily Verlaine, every act delights.

I want to give special accolades to my favorite performers.

Miss Polly Wood, Inga Ingenue, and Lou Henry Hoover are absolutely hysterical as The Snowflakes. Their comedic timing and presence made each ‘bit’ a thoroughly enjoyable number as memorable as any other act in the show.

Lydia Mclane as the hard working Tulips is an equal delight. Though her role is more limited, her performance truly deserves being called pick-up ART.

Lily Verlaine as the Countess of Coffee stole my heart once again with her sensuality and graceful application of her ballet training. Her choreography pays subtle homage to classical choreo and that gentle attention to ‘tradition’ is part of why this show will keep returning to the stage. That being said Lily does Coffee right. Aided by Misster Waxie Moon, a talented dancer/choreographer, and Osiris Bombay, a relative newcomer to the burlesque scene whose solo performance in Coffee made my mouth water (HOT!), Lily reminds me why Coffee is my favorite number.

A change from last year that I have to mention, Ben Delacreme’s performance as Madame Ginger was brilliant! This role was previously played by Paula the Swedish Housewife whose reputation as a talented performer is well deserved. But the addition of Ben to this year’s Nutcracker added an element that rang true to me. Though not always used, the role of Mother Ginger is a class drag role: comedic, over the top, and thoroughly enjoyable. Paula’s Madame Ginger was sophisticated and sexy. Ben’s is hilarious, and her act made me jealous of the people in the front row.

I could go on and on about this amazing piece of ecdysiastic pageantry, but better still I will encourage you to go see it yourself. Performing at the Triple Door, Downtown Seattle, through the 2oth. Tickets can be purchased online at www.thetripledoor.net or call 206-838-4333. Make this show your new holiday tradition!

~ Fosse Jack