Wow-wee have the Newbie Shows been kind to you, my lovely audience!
Check out our next burly girly who's competing in The Newbie Show Final on Sundae 19th February -
Miss Bruise Violet! Miss Violet won The Newbie Show heat at The Sugar Suite in our lovely little city, Birmingham in April 2011. Who has had a little chat with us, here's what she's had to say for herself -
What did it mean to you as a performer, and an individual to win your heat?
It's always nice to have your performance appreciated and recognised so I was very flattered! I was a little nervous as I was probably one of the only non-local girls there and didn't have any friends there so I didn't think I'd get through but was super pleased when I did! It'll be nice to be back in Birmingham, there seems to be such a strong scene up there.
Who or what inspires you as a performer?
I take inspiration from tons of different places but have a very fond place in my heart for musicals and old-time Hollywood glamour. I also get very inspired by performers and artists who aren't afraid to take risks, like Marnie Scarlet and Lola LaBelle. Both fantastic performers who play with the genre in very different ways, to different and equally brilliant outcomes. As Frank Zappa said "without deviation from the norm, progress is impossible". I'm also a massive Kate Bush fan and plan to incorporate her music into a routine this year. She brings me to tears with her music and I hope to try and interpret her words through my performance.
What would it mean to you to win the finals?
I've had a pretty unbelievable year so winning the final would just top it off! I've gone from someone who was pilloried and put down by my teacher, told I'd never be a "proper" burlesquer to someone who regularly works the London circuit and beyond with some of the cream of burlesque and cabaret. Getting into the final of London Burlesque Week newcomer's contest was a highlight and I met so many amazing people. I feel very lucky to have come this far and winning the Final would be bloody lovely! I'd probably spend all the prize money on booze so the venue would do quite well out of it! But honestly I'm just happy to be involved.
Whats next for you in terms of your burlesque career?
I've had a bit of a break recently as I worked a crazy amount last year and almost burnt out so I'm working on new routines and working towards becoming full-time self employed. I want to spend as much time as possible gaining the skills which will improve my performance and to do that I have to leave my job. It's pretty scary but I'm comitted to learning my craft and that means sacrifice in other areas of life. More training, more costuming, more routines! I'll be adding more singing into my routines and cross-genre stuff. Comedy, singing, tease..... I want to show what I versatile performer I am. I don't just get my kit off!
If you could appear on the same bill as any performer (alive or not!) who would it be and why?
That's such a hard question! Burlesque and cabaret are SO varied that I could fill about 4 different line-ups with people from different styles! I would LOVE to do a duet, some sort of comedy showtune, with Mister Meredith, he's one of my favourite performers and a bloody lovely chap.
What are your top 3 make-up/hair products and why?
I'm a very basic gal when it comes to products. I get my eyelashes from the pound shop and don't splash out tons on make-up, it's how you wear it, not what you wear! I don't see the point in spending £20 on an eyeliner, never have. Setting lotion, red lipstick and a good stage foundation. Oh and hair dye of course! I'd be lost without it!
Do you have any top tips for new performers starting out in 2012?
Research your act, practice and don't be afraid to spend money on your costumes. There's nothing worse than seeing 5 mediocre fan dances on the same bill done by girls in cheap underwear. You don't have to spend *tons* of money but remember that your costumes are an investment and can set you apart from other performers. Practice your routines tons, research loads, watch as many shows as you can, be brave and don't be afraid to be different and do something totally off the wall! And network as if your life depends on it, because it does. I can be very shy and need to take my own advice on that one!
Anything else you'd like to say?
Just that I'm super happy to be performing at the final and regardless of the result I'm hoping to have a great time both onstage and off! Can hardly wait!!
You can check the lovely lady herself out here -
www.youtube.com/user/Bru1seVi0let
facebook.com/missbruiseviolet
Image, Unknown Photographer but taken from www.missbruiseviolet.com
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