The Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend 2012

I’ve only been home a couple of days, and suffering from Burlesque Hall of Fame withdrawals. Another incredible year of shows, meetings, catchups and wild nights with burly starlets.

Adam and I arrived into Las Vegas on the Monday night and enjoyed a night wandering around The Strip. By Wednesday night some of our favourite friends arrived and it was off to the Absinthe Show at Caesars Palace, starring Melody Sweets. Loved the show. Reminded me format wise of La Soiree / La Clique a fair bit. Melody was a joy to watch and the skaters blew my mind. Incredible.

I ran into some dear friends including Hedoluxe, Mat Fraser, Evil Hate Monkey, Imogen Kelly, Sina King, Trixie Little. We had some drinks after the show at Caesars.I blame my jet lag for making a delayed appearance, as unfortunately I slipped on the Strip and twisted my ankle. (Rather annoying as I was suppose to help out with the Legends display and setting up of the Bazaar the following day and was deemed useless!).

Movers, Shakers and Innovators was the first show of the weekend, and the title fit. Hosted by the hilarious and witty Mat Fraser, I was thrilled to see some of my favourite Artists all in one night, with particular highlights being Minnie Tonka, Melody Mangler, Iva Handfull, Tigger! and of course our darling Australian Briana Bluebell. I also got to see Julie Atlas Muz and Mat’s duo piece from The Freak and the Showgirl. God they make me LAUGH!!

I’m always one to cry on Legends night (Titans of Tease) but bloody Gypsy Louise – I was a mess. Why did they start with you dammit!! Those boys, those moves, your BODY!! Oh my god. That was one of the best figures I saw all weekend. Incredible. Laughed my head off later when you told me you think you orgasmed when Jett took off your corset. Loved loved LOVED IT.

Was so sad that Judith Stein couldn’t make it. She’s always a particular favourite of mine. I hope all is well and we can see her next year. Maybe I’ll have to do a Legends Challenge to ensure it. Love Haji (again) and also Holly Carroll.

So then comes the big Tournament of Tease. I had some firm favourites to win, but of course inside was hopeful the Crown would “come home on Qantas”. There’s no words to describe the moment that was confirmed. I have to also point out some stand out favourites. Ophelia Flame. The costume, the command of attention and ownership of THAT STAGE. Breathtaking. Kitty Bang Bang – I was nervous about the chosen act being performed without fire, but she NAILED it. Impressive, tight choreography, just beautiful and powerful to watch. Also really enjoyed Tansy, and Ruby Joule (who reminded me SO much of Billie Madley – anyone else?), the Screaming Chicken Theatrical Society (dowsers – the most perfect Berkly routine I’ve seen to date). I had not seen Lola Frost and Cherry on Top before, and fell in love with their cheeky egyptian number. It was HOT!

Icons and All Stars on Sunday was a perfect way to end the weekend. Bastard Keith I love you. You are a pleasure to watch. That opening number was sooo Tony Awards. Other highlights were Julie Atlas Muz in her Sound of the Police, Kalani (my god woman that was too hot for words), Tiffany Carter and of course, Toni Elling.

I want to thank the BHoF Team for an amazing weekend, including Dustin, Mig (sorry I was so naughty), Laura and Dr Shocker. I want to thank Gabriella Maze for being our bestie, Roxi for the make out session, Baron  and Jonny Porkpie for keeping Adam sane, Minnie Tonka, Darlinda Just Darlinda, Shien Lee, Bastard Keith, Amber Ray, Alexandra Bruner for their hospitality whilst in New York. Paula so nice to see you again, as always so inspiring.

Overall it was an amazing work trip for us, and so thrilled so many of you were able to buy and try our RED by Jac Bowie lipsticks. Can’t wait to hear all your feedback. It’s been a hard 6 months for us here in Australia, so it was nice to come home inspired and remember just how strong the community and our friendships are overseas.

See you next year!!

MAIN PHOTO: Baron S Cameron