BOYLEXE, burlesque with a difference, at the Shadow Lounge, Soho, London - 4 July 2014

Soho, one of the most entertaining, intriguing and lively areas in the heart of London. For connoisseurs and newcomers alike, Soho surprises you with new shows, new venues, and new enterprises popping up round every corner.

And so, there we were queuing outside the newly refurbished Shadow Lounge, anticipating a boylesque show with a difference, or so we were told! The glitzy chic and glamorous club was ready to receive an excited crowd. And as always, the burlesque aficionados, who love to model some great outfits of their own, were at the rendez-vous.

If you are searching for burlesque with a difference, Boylexe is just for you. Produced by Howard Wilmot, Boylexe features an all-male cast that dazzles you with some unexpected routines. It is a most colourful show with acts as varied and unique as the performers. Where else can you find a blend of monologues, storytelling and striptease acts, and featuring the most loved burlesque satire acts?

Our host tonight, Meth, queerlesque star and probably the most colourful performer of the night, graces the stage with confidence, charisma and individuality. After reading the 'rules' to the audience, his opening act is a parody of Beyonce's 'If I were a boy'. Miming his way through the song, and staging a very entertaining interpretation of it, he entrances the public with his performance. Spectators beware, as he pulls a male spectator to participate, something that seems to be the order of the night, so be prepared!

Many boylesque fans have had the great pleasure to see Meth's outstanding acts before, under the name of Mr Mistress. If you were lucky enough to attend the 2012 London Burlesque Festival at The Royal Vauxhall Tavern, you witnessed Mr Mistress receiving the runner-up award with his amazing performance!

While some of the following acts are more stand-up monologues, the one that has the audience in a roar of cheer and applause is Nick Stiletto. His American soldier's act is a memorable boylesque number on the scene. Nick Stiletto knows how to move! He wows the audience with the perfect use of the American flag and the pasties on his cheeks (and I don't mean his face!) that he twirls with sauciness and aplomb.

I was very excited when I heard that Fred Bear was part of the cast tonight. For those acquainted with the troupe Bearlesque, no need for introduction. Boylesque critically acclaimed male performers, Bearlesque's great talent marries comical to artistic savoir-faire in their unprecedented burlesque acts. Fred Bear's number, taken from 'Flashdance', was performed with wit, class and great liveliness. His confident stage presence is enticing.

Just Brilliant Fred Bear…!

The whole evening is a mixture of pastiche, discourse, and directly engaging the audience with gags such as blindfolding a spectator who laughs his way through hitting (or trying to!) a penis piñata.

But the most memorable act of the night was the closing number from Meth. Her jaw-dropping 'reverse striptease' routine enthralled the spectators whose ovation escalated to a final frenzy of cheers.

A must-see show that will captivate you with its wit, sauciness and unparalleled all-male cast.

The next shows this summer take place on 25 July, 1 August and 29 August. Doors open at 7pm.

Tickets cost £15 - GET A DISCOUNT WITH OUR SPECIAL OFFER WHEN YOU ENTER:

BURLESQUE-MAP in the Promotional Code, on their website: www.boylexe.co.uk

DON'T MISS REUBEN KAYE ON 25 JULY…!



Eva Lamour

Neo Burlesque Awards at the Empire Casino - Leicester Square - London - 10th April 2014

Have you ever wondered how burlesque performers start their career? Have you attended a burlesque event, and wished to be the one on the stage?

Forget the Big Apple for the land of opportunities; London is where eccentricity meets classical, where anything and everything happens, where your craziest dreams and fantasies can come to life. If London is not the land of opportunities, it is the world's biggest stage for performers to showcase their individuality.

And so, the Neo Burlesque Awards, at the Empire Casino, Leicester Square, opens the doors to newcomers, performing for a small audience, hoping to be voted the best on the night, in order to reach the grand finale in November, at Madame Jojo's.

We revel at the knowledge that up and down the capital city, a multitude of events are taking place, offering the public a view of what can be achieved when someone dreams of the impossible to become possible.

Created by Sharon Kay, the Neo Burlesque Awards is an event where, every second Thursday of the month, a few performers enter the stage to seduce the audience. It is a small affair in the Shadow Bar of the Empire Casino, but because many of the spectators come to support the performers, it is a very friendly atmosphere.

The compère for the night, the Divine MissEm, is no sweet shy hostess. The red-haired fiery femme fatale, will turn from latex lover dominatrix, cracking her whip, to sensual seductress, making your heart race with her powerful beautiful voice.

Tonight, she welcomes eight contestants owning the stage with their personal number, impressing the audience, and hoping to win their place at the final.

Burlesque is synonym of 'anyone can be who they want to be', where all shapes and sizes are equally as attractive, pleasing the array of spectators that burlesque attracts. And it was certainly so tonight, for the audience applauded, with fervour, each performer, as they presented the most varied of acts: from ballet, rock'n'roll, fans and polka dots, to tassel twirling acts.

These newcomers into the burlesque realm gave everything of themselves, and it was obvious that they enjoyed the attention they received, as the applause filled the room. A nerve-racking experience, it could be, but these performers seemed to have glided through with delight and exhilaration.

The contest was judged not only by tonight's three judges, Sharon Kay, Peggy De Lune and May Den-Voyage, but also the audience, who very avidly submitted their favourite name at the end of the show. As with all contests, the waiting is done while socialising; a time to chat to friends and meet new faces. An event that seems to be a bit more personal, but as London is not just about the big stage, what better place to spend a Thursday night, being entertained by friends, or friends of friends?

Why not be a judge yourself, and vote for your favourite act? Shows appear every month until the grand final in November. For a list of all shows, procure yourself the Burlesque Map London, at www.burlesquemap.co.uk, where you will find all listings and all information needed.

Support this fabulous wave of performers, and if not, why not become one yourself!
Schools are listed on the Map, so if you have what it takes, give it a go!!



Eva Lamour

 

 

Photography by:   JAMES DRURY

Scarlett Seductrice

Sirena Azure

Betty Rogers

Madeleine Soleil

Coeur de Plume

Silk Seduction

Penny De Fleur

Siren de la Soirée

With Judges: Peggy De Lune and May Den-Voyage

House of Burlesque presents 'Burlesque Idol' Season 5 - January 2014

The last Friday of every month is a special day at Madame Jojo's. But don't take my word for it, go and experience it for yourself.

If you enjoy contests where the audience has the ultimate vote, then this is the perfect show. Burlesque Idol is where newcomers compete while showcasing their talent, convincing the crowd, and three judges, of their deserving place in the final, held in November 2014.

Madame Jojo's, legendary cabaret in the heart of Soho, enjoys a full house tonight; you can even spot the enthusiasts, showing off their retro or burlesque outfits.

The resident host and compère, Barnaby Slater, has an air of nonchalance as he arrives on stage. His calm disposition soon reveals his witty humour, as he interacts with the audience. His young look, untamed hair and braces remind me of a university student come comedian.

The panel of judges comprises burlesque internationally acclaimed performer, Tempest Rose, creator and producer of House of Burlesque; Delores Deluxe, resident judge, a founder and leader of 'The Kitten Club Burlesque Cabaret', London's longest running troupe. And finally, guest judge, Dolly Rose, international burlesque artist, teacher, and costume and vintage dance expert, who offers her invaluable contribution to tonight's show.

Personally, I am anticipating these acts with curiosity, wondering how these still-amateur performers can entertain a full crowd with success, and keep the vigorous and exciting momentum going.

The first contestant is Bollywood meets Burlesque, Hermione Lydne. Gracing the stage with a beautiful green sari, Hermione performs a seductive dance, barefoot. Using her beautiful 'butterfly' wings from her costume, she smiles all the way through, to the great cheer of the spectators.
Hermione hypnotises the room with a slow-paced, artistic and graceful act.

As the next contestant, Signorina Fabialosa, enters the stage, the spectators welcome her with fervent acclamation. Wearing a black corseted outfit and a riding crop, Fabialosa's confidence on stage is no indicator that she only qualified the previous month. Teasing the crowd second by second, this Diva promises a grand finale to her act. And to the pleasure of the audience, Fabiolasa reveals her Italian-flagged tassels, provoking a wave of loud applause.

Great start to the first contest of 2014. Burlesque Idol, in its 5th season, is a very popular event in the world of Burlesque. Its format might remind us of the many television contests with a panel of judges, and contestants providing entertainment for the audience, but Burlesque Idol reveals to be attracting big crowd incessantly.

Next on stage, Aurora Blu sways in with elegance in her blue, long feathered train and corset. A performance in two acts gives a more professional feel to her production. However, it would have been nice for her fast paced movements to have been slowed down, in order to appreciate her sensual grace. This doesn't deter the audience who applauds her performance with energy.

The first act after the interval comes from a far away place, Canada, with Susie Vavoom, whose confidence on stage takes the whole audience by storm. Her 1950s performance, with her unique Marilyn Monroe revival, reveals a success with the spectators. Although not all judges appreciate her lip sync performance, her sassiness enchants the crowd.

Last but not least, Whisky Falls enters the stage with great poise and salacious manner. Her grand stage presence wows the audience as she interacts with the spectators. Her second act, with a rock'n roll beat, brings her a grand ovation from the whole crowd. You can almost hear all those hearts racing in the room, including the host's…! I am not convinced she is an amateur!

Although a newcomers contest, Burlesque Idol is not just about the contestants. The three judges delighted the crowd with a piece of their own repertoire. Easy to spot the pros, each one of them gave an outstanding performance. It is not just about the acts but the complicity they have with the audience. These three performers have a unique way of enticing the spectators.

This is what makes Burlesque Idol a great event. Not only the audience gets to vote for their favourite performance, but we also have the massive pleasure of enjoying three acts from eminent burlesque legends.
And tonight, the three judges certainly enthralled the spectators.

And so the time to reveal the winner arrived… As these gorgeous ladies entered the stage, waiting for the verdict, the energy in the room was one of excitement.  Everybody anticipated the results while shouting the name of their favourite performer.

But as always, only one can leave with the trophy, and tonight the winner was….. Whisky Falls…!!

Well deserved, as far as I am concerned, although I always admire the brilliance of all performers.

It was a great night, and judging by the participation of the crowd, it is one of the best events in London!

A must-see show, all the way till the end!

For more information, visit the House of Burlesque web site: www.houseofburlesque.co.uk

All House of Burlesque events are listed in: www.burlesquemap.co.uk

For full profiles of tonight's judges, some of the contestants and many more shows and events, order copies of Burlesque Map London at: http://www.burlesquemap.co.uk/buy_burlesque_map.asp



Eva Lamour






Photography by: JAMES DRURY

Barnaby Slater

Hermione Lydne

Signorina Fabialosa

Aurora Blu

Dolly Rose - Tempest Rose - Delores Deluxe

Susie Vavoom

Whisky Falls

Delores Deluxe

Tempest Rose

Dolly Rose

Winner: Whisky Falls

Scandalous! Ivy Paige at the Leicester Square Theatre - London West End - Review...

Scandalous! is a musical that captures the world of Ivy, a brothel Madam in the 18th century London, who plots her way out of a financial debt to the Marquis of Gray, her aspiring lover.

Notorious owner of a bordello, Ivy protects the future of her whore house with the help of her courtesans. The arrival of Rose, a virgin whore, provides Ivy with the perfect opportunity to distract the Marquis away from her.

When events turn for the worst, and Ivy is imprisoned, the Marquis seizes the good chance to run the brothel.
Will Ivy return to take back her precious house?

A strong woman, who must be astute to survive, but her loneliness is, at times, a price she pays for settling for money and not love. But what path will she choose, ultimately?

Capturing the harsh world of women in the 18th century London, Scandalous! explores the vulnerability of a woman who is prepared to fight a world where men dominate more than money and politics.

The play is full of comedy, live music and burlesque acts, with a supporting cast including Pete Saunders, talented song writer and singer (formerly of Dexys Midnight Runners) accompanies Ivy at the piano, and delights us with his singing too.
Harper Ray, as the Marquis of Gray, is presently producer/director at the Shakespeare Globe Theatre. His classical acting gives much strength to his role, and great stage presence.

Crinolines, pantaloons and corsets, and the magnificent voice of Ivy Paige, certainly make the show a must-see.

The majestic and gorgeous period dresses worn by Ivy Paige are a vision and plunge you right back in time, as does the colourful array of period costumes that makes this play a visual delight. With the burlesque acts bringing their unique outfits, the wardrobe in general will attract the attention of the audience.

This musical is full of vibrant, professional and confident acting.
Ivy is a natural performer and actress, who has much to offer the West End. I would love to see more of her witty humour in this play, but there is no doubt that her talent is reflected in her powerful stage presence. Ivy Paige is quality in all its splendour, the voice, the acting, the determination, and creativity she offers, show a great future for this play.

The audience is never forgotten, as the courtesans welcome you as clients of Ivy's 'disreputable establishment', handing 'guineas' to spend during the show. The interaction with the audience, throughout the play, reflects the confidence of the actors.

Ivy is here to stay, and with the support of great names like Pete Saunders and Harper Ray, our most illustrious and celebrated London theatre scene, one of the most envied around the world, has found a new talent.


Do not miss the great opportunity to see this fabulous play that, so far, only appears on the 30th December 2012 and the 26th January 2013, with more dates to come.

Check the various dates on: www.ivypaige.co.uk and support one of our most talented performers, in theatre, cabaret, burlesque and more, much more...!





Eva Lamour



Photography by: James Drury

Leicester Square Theatre

Ivy Paige

Pete Saunders

Marquis of Gray and courtesans

Ivy and Marquis of Gray

The Troupe

Ivy Paige and her courtesans

Chaz Royal: Celebrating his 10 Year Anniversary in Burlesque - Friday 23rd November 2012 at Bush Hall, London

What do Chaz Royal's burlesque shows, all have in common? A majestic wide variety of bawdy humour, elegance, glamour, seduction and eccentricity, in all shapes, sizes and styles.
A pleasure for all to enjoy, and tonight was no exception. From glamour to bizarre, and purely entertaining, all acts were a delight of the highest standard. And this is why we love burlesque, the Chaz way...!

Celebrating 10 years in burlesque, Chaz chose 'Bush Hall' for this memorable anniversary. A favourite venue, with a music hall feel, grand architecture, but friendly, and not one ounce of pompousness. While some venues have a greater feel of prestige, Bush Hall has been a much sought-after venue, as it marries glamour and popularity, perfectly.

The hosts, Chaz Royal and Betty D'Light, welcomed the guests personally, at the door, adding a touch of specialness by keeping close to the audience. When shows become a national success, it is easy to detach oneself from the public, and lose track of the important factor: the spectacle goes on stage for the pleasure of the spectators...! So, it's fantastic to see the organisers, promoters be part of us.

Chaz and Betty


Buzzing with excitement, the room was full; a sign of how notorious and popular Chaz's events have become.

Eccentric, talented entertainer, Benjamin Louche, was the compère for the night, bringing his unique sense of humour, dark, satiric and extremely witty. His distinctive stage presence, a performance in itself, sent the audience into frenzy with laughter, cheer and applause throughout the night. A compère unlike the rest...!

Benjamin Louche


This grand evening opened with the winner of the London Burlesque Festival 2012, Anna the Hulagan. Even more glamourous than during her performance in May, Anna brought to the stage a mixture of skill, seduction, and magnificent eye catching hula hoop fire act, full of energy. Increasing the pace, as the rhythm grew faster and faster, Anna the Hulagan performed a beautiful striptease, receiving much acclamation from the spectators.
A brilliant act not to miss...!

Anna the Hulagan


But Chaz's events would not be complete without a touch of boylesque, and tonight he delighted us with four male performers.

The first this evening, Kiki Lovechild, entered the stage with an amazing hand shadow performance, leading to his double act with his furry ostrich. With the wonderful 'Close to you' by The Carpenters playing, Kiki and his ostrich had successive routines culminating to his strip, revealing his whizzing pasties - a great act and one that provoked great enthusiastic applause.

Kiki Lovechild


Laughter followed by glamour with a capital G, Banbury Cross, in her Marilyn Monroe style, brought the Golden Age of Hollywood to this event. Owning the stage with confidence, class and a beautiful sensual choreography, Banbury sent hearts thumping. She wowed the room with her classical burlesque tease, full of charisma, sensuality and the skills of true professional performer. A very rowdy audience gave a majestic ovation when she showered herself with champagne wearing nothing by pasties and a thong... A very erotic tableau...!

Banbury Cross



The unexpected always arrives like a big wave or with a big 'bang' and Dare's arrival on stage certainly got the attention of the whole room. A fantastic boost of originality and great entertainment, Dare's aerobics number had all of us clapping and waving. With all eyes on him, he performed a parody of an aerobic instructor, doing the splits, the wheel and dancing with such energy! His routine and choreography showed much agility, individuality and fun. Finishing with his glittery body naked, except for some luminous green trunks, Dare got us all fully energised, ready for more... But we had an interval instead...!

Dare


We all welcomed the two intervals Chaz included tonight, allowing the audience to savour the show by extending the pleasure, taking time to wander around, talking to other spectators, and sharing the delight of the night.

Back in front of the stage, we welcomed the magnificent Lada Redstar in all her splendour, wearing a sparkling black and white dress. She took to the stage with confidence, in a truly theatrical manner, a delectation for the eyes...! Her acts took us from Jessica Rabbit's seductive look, to Bettie Page's erotic moves. Lada Redstar, is an artiste and star in every way.

Lada Redstar


Uniqueness is not for the weak ones. It takes someone very special to carry out an act with so much singularity, and Mr Pustra has the charisma, the personality and the look for this special act. In his Pierrot outfit, Mr Pustra reminds me of the eccentric Serge Gainsbourg, smoking while singing, poetic yet a rebel. Mr Pustra is the Pierrot of the Commedia dell'Arte, full of visual art, and poesy with his personal touch of eccentricity, rebellion and posture. He kept the full attention of the crowd, taken by his singing, right to the finale's accolade...! Wow...!

Mr Pustra


From one iconic figure to another, Eliza Delite is a Virgin wearing the traditional blue robe; a beautiful outfit that comes off to reveal a fiery golden and red corset. In her crown and 'Heart of Jesus' effigy on her chest, Eliza Delite's dance in her golden wings mesmerises the audience. A magnificent tableau rich in colours, movement and sensuality; a Saint who strips down to show the erotic side of purity...! A marvelous performance...!

Eliza Delite


Keeping with the biblical theme of women, Veronique Divine is the embodiment of the Jezebel or the temptress dancer Salome, whose dance captivated Herod. In her red outfit, flying us to Arabian nights, Veronique Divine raises the heat in the room, seducing the audience with her dance, her tease and finally a most erotic strip...! Hot, hot, hot...!

Veronique Divine


Just as we thought the stage couldn't get any hotter, in comes Big Chief Random Chaos...! His signature act, the one that won him first place at the Burlesque Games in May at Madame Jojo's, was still a great piece of entertainment. One that filled the room with laughter, screams, disbelief and a crowd clapping hilariously...! If anyone wants to see a burlesque variety act with much ingenuity, this is one! His bottom spanked, on fire, and sado masochism thrown into the act, he set his mohican on fire; nobody expected such madness... Big Chief delivered, once again, an entertaining act with brilliance... Chaos by name, great entertainer by nature...!

BigChief Random Chaos


Closing the first evening of this celebratory weekend, Lada Redstar returned on stage with another fabulous costume; colourful, utterly prestigious green costume, her bug act won another praise from tonight's crowd.

Lada Redstar

All in all, a success for everyone. An elated and happy audience, welcomed back the magnificent acts that performed brilliantly tonight. With so many shows to his name, Chaz delivers burlesque entertainment in all its grandeur. Bravo!

Hurrah to another 10 years of Chaz Royal's burlesque shows...!




Eva Lamour

Photographer: James Drury