Every few months (or lately, weeks it seems), a newer performer I know will forward me a message or CL posting and ask me whether I know the "new producer" who has contacted them or posted an ad about doing a gig for "exposure" or "inspiration."
Here's the thing burlesque performers - if the person putting together your show is NOT in any way established as a producer, is not contributing talent-wise (they don't have a special skill, they're not stripping or performing other than hosting), and has no ties to the community in town, they're not an up and coming producer, they're a creep - and they're trying to get you to work for them for free.
There are plenty of venues and outlets in town to get your foot in the door performing, have a great experience, and do it safely with experienced performers.
Even if you're brand brand new to the scene, you're worth more than "exposure" -- and if the person soliciting you is virtually unknown to the rest of us, ask yourself, how much is your name really getting out there?
At the end of the day, be wary of creeper dudes trying to make a buck off of staring at you naked.
Lots of love and XXX & Os,
PS - here are some great folks to work with to get your feet wet performing:
Rogue Burlesque (my near and dears) - they have tons of classes, volunteer opportunities, and host an amateur competition (where they'll workshop your stuff ahead of time) a few times a year.
Punk Rockin' & Pastie Poppin' - are you a blood and guts, raunch and rock kind of performer? Check out this low-key super fun monthly night at the Midway in JP. Run by Dinah Deville and featuring some of Boston's longest running burlesque mainstays as well as tons of new talenet.
Drag King 101 w/UnAmerika's Sweetheart Karin Webb - take class with Papa Karin - there's always a recital at the end (and lots of alumni have grabbed extra gigs from it too!) and you'll learn SOO SOO MUCH!
PPS - here are some questions you should ALWAYS ask a producer you haven't met or worked with before:
How long have you been producing?
Have you produced a burlesque show before? (If they've never produced before ask them why they want to start now - and ask them what their definition of 'burlesque' is - make sure they actually know what it is).
What are your ties in the community? How are you involved in the scene here? How did you find me? Why do you want to work with me? What sort of compensation are you planning? Do you have references? Who can vouch for you? Who have you worked with before? May I contact them.
