The BackCOUNTER Lounge with Ivy Paige and Dusty Limits - 11th June 2016

Right in the busyness and developing area of Vauxhall, the railway arches harbour eccentric, quirky and unique commerce. Hidden in one of those arches, lies a treasure. One of those places you find by chance, and you wish you had known about it before: The Back Counter Lounge.

Never judge a venue by its emplacement. Situated underneath Vauxhall train station, and opposite Vauxhall bus station, this hidden gem will surprise and impress you.

Home to a restaurant and a brasserie, the Counter Restaurant and the Back Counter Lounge stretch from one side of the arches to the other. Philip, the owner, likes to describe it as the longest restaurant in London.

Restaurant at one end (Counter Restaurant), and chic Parisian style bistro at the other, the Back Counter Lounge has recently added an asset to its scene: a monthly burlesque and cabaret show. This evening it was homage to Queen Elizabeth II on her 90th birthday, celebrating it their own way, it was more a tribute to all 'Queens' of the world, but more precisely London. And royal presence, we definitely had.

London has an array of burlesque and cabaret artistes, the only capital city in the world to host such a variety of performers and events. But maybe the reason to be wary of fake glittery shows that sparkle more than impress.

The Back Counter Lounge, however, has done its homework and has launched with nothing less than top end quality, in the world of burlesque and cabaret. Hosting the show, are two of the most talented, witty, and daring performers on the scene: Miss Ivy Paige and Dusty Limits.

Two names that do not need introduction for the connoisseurs of this world.

Ivy Paige is an international performer, artiste, model, comedienne and one of the best voices in cabaret. Whether I have seen Miss Paige in the West End, acting, or in the most illustrious cabaret as a singer and burlesque performer, or showcasing her talent of comedienne as a host or compère, she always seems to feel at home anywhere, exhibiting and flaunting her talent…! And she has a lot to flaunt…!

Tonight she reminds me of a Jessica Rabbit femme fatale, with her magnificent long red hair, her corseted bodice giving her the perfect curves, and her air of nonchalance, and penetrating eyes that entrance and mesmerise you.

The supremacy of Miss Paige, however, is her all-powerful glorious voice. From sensual tone to full voice, she interprets songs with her unique style, leaving the whole room in awe of her bel canto.

One of her strengths is, no doubt, her brilliance at interacting with the audience. Men, you need to be scared, very scared, for Miss Paige can turn from strict headmistress to femme fatale before you even realise. She banters, plays with you, turns you into her slave, and quite honestly, you have no escape if she so chooses. But enjoy the attention, for you will revel in it.

And this evening she is accompanied by another legend of cabaret : Dusty Limits.

Three times London Cabaret Award winner for Best Host / Compère, Australian-born Dusty Limits, is one of the most acclaimed burlesque performers of the neo-cabaret scene.

International artiste, Dusty has performed in the four corners of the world. Possessing a remarkable portfolio of events and venues, he has been praised for his creativity, directing skills, and his remarkable powerful voice.

Tonight, at the Back Counter Lounge, he filled the room with a repertoire totally suited to this celebratory evening. He lent his powerful voice to a mixture of well known songs, as well as his own creations.

But Dusty is much more than his mighty vocal talent. He is a witty, hugely experienced compère, whose presence and persona make him also an artistic visual act. What makes a pro at hosting any event, amalgamating it with his brilliance as a performer? The ease with which he interacts with his audience, no matter what goes on! The tales of the unexpected only fortify his natural talent and flair. And tonight, not only Dusty didn't get phased by a diner who dramatically dropped his glass of wine on the floor, with a mighty noise creating a pool of red gold, but he managed to turn the whole incident into a sideshow. Simply Fantastic!

Is there something in Australian waters that breeds talent? Bring it on, that's all I say…!!

In the spirit of new beginnings, the Back Counter Club introduced new voices to this cabaret evening: the Vox Vixens. In their debut performance, this fabulous quartet enthralled the audience with their powerful voices. Singing 'Sweet dreams' with no background music or instruments, their act was a jaw dropping moment, leaving the diners in total awe of their singing talent. And I'm not simply talking  of their talent at interpreting songs, it is their creativity at making each number their own that will totally bewilder you. Any good voice could recreate a classic, but to reinvent it requires genius, and these girls ooze it by the gallon…!!

They have presence. They have power. They have charisma. This is a cabaret act with art…!


But this evening would not have been quite the same without the musical banter of Lord Hicks. His musical power lies more in his lyrics than his vocal tones. So, listen very carefully because this is an act not to miss.
A rather posh guy, and Oxford scholar, you will not be disappointed by his non-pompous musical talent. This royal-tea lover (or so I've heard) is not so much about RP but more about syntax. Indeed, his lyrics will bring colours to your ears, for if you are easily offended by rude words and sentences, better go find something else to do now.

 


Accompanied by his ukelele, Lord Hicks sends the audience into bouts of laughter with his innuendos and his parody of online dating. His tale of total frustration at not finding decent connections on social media has turned this modern age technology into a brilliant topic for this crude and yet polished oeuvre d'art.


Regular intervals throughout the evening extends the pleasure of this great entertainment. Rather than displaying the acts in a succession, the enjoyment is spread over three hours. A magnificent treat for those who love to prolong the joy.

I love that the performers are sitting nearby, approachable, sociable, creating a more intimate ambiance and a nicer touch to the whole event.

And if you are wondering about the cuisine, your palate will be as delighted as your other senses. The friendly and attentive team made the whole experience stress free, happy to help, ensuring that all was well throughout the whole evening.  

All in all a night of gratification all round. But what better than experience it first hand..! Take yourself along for the next event, you will be charmed by this high class hideaway.




Eva Lamour


All Photography by James Drury


Note: BackCOUNTER Lounge, Vauxhall Station, South Lambeth Road, SW8 1SR. To make reservation, please phone +44 20 3693 9600
Nearest tube: Vauxhall.

More information on Burlesque Map London at www.burlesquemap.co.uk

Burlesque Map London, issue 4

BURLESQUE MAP LONDON, issue 4

created by PictureRama Publishing


PictureRama Publishing has launched edition 4 of Burlesque Map London, the leading map of the burlesque and cabaret scene.

With YOU in mind, Burlesque Map London have compiled a pocket size, easy to use guide to the world of burlesque, cabaret and vintage. This one-of-a-kind publication features a street map of London and over 200 listings of the most relevant and valuable places, all checked for you.

It comprises shops, hotels, cafés, restaurants, vintage and retro fashion, hair and beauty, accessories, associations, tuition, together with burlesque shows and cabaret acts.

For the avid globetrotter or the occasional tourist, Burlesque Map London takes you on a tour of European cities with a unique list of must-see festivals. As burlesque tourism is on the increase, you can now harmonise holiday and show abroad.

Burlesque Map London is also a valued source of relevant information for producers, performers, promoters, publishers and others, creating a most comprehensive directory for key people, and key groups within the burlesque milieu.

So, don't encumber yourself with pages and pages of information, or days of internet research to find your burlesque necessaries. This ultimate accessory will guide you towards your most desired essentials or interests.

The Map is reviewed yearly, ensuring that new information is included regularly, giving the readers a continuous updated view of the burlesque and cabaret world.

Copies of Burlesque Map London can be purchased for just £4 (free postage) in the on-line shop at: www.burlesquemap.co.uk

This unique publication is also available across 100s of tightly controlled distribution points including carefully selected shops, cabarets, bars, clubs and hotels across London and other national and worldwide outlets.

PictureRama Publishing

PictureRama has been providing photography and journalism to worldwide publishers and the alternative press for 20 years. Numerous exhibitions, magazines and on-line publications have featured PictureRama photography.

More information about PictureRama Publishing and photography can be found on: www.PictureRama.co.uk

Eva Lamour

The Boom and Bang Club - Clapham Grand 25th July 2015

The evening was already getting going as I wandered along Lavender Hill, Battersea, London. Having already assisted a cyclist, following an unfortunate accident and dispatched him to hospital, I felt just about ready for anything...!

Arriving at The Clapham Grand, an awesome and imposing venue, former Victorian music hall, I was confronted by a large rowdy crowd of 'young ladies' sporting sashes and fluffy, flashing bunny ears! Was I in the right place? Had I stumbled upon a hen party convention?

Taking a vantage point in a bar opposite, I observed and recomposed myself. As it turned out, in the hour leading up to the 10pm start of Boom & Bang Club there was an opportunity for hen prospects to mingle with, and have pictures taken with near naked, oiled and muscled male dancers... It was clearly very popular...!

For the first time ever I was asked for ID, and once that indignity was done, I was in! The full spectacle confronted me, light shows from floor to ceiling and an ocean of gyrating bodies on and off stage...!

This is a new night for Boom & Bang at The Clapham Grand, and it is full-on visual light show meets circus clowns, dancers and big club sounds. Boom & Bang have been around for a while with revered late night shows at The Hippodrome Casino, but this circus/club fusion at Clapham Grand is a new concept.

Behind Boom & Bang is Bioux Hayes, who was DJing and the music made the evening: Retro to 80s club tunes - just my genre! More world famous DJs are lined up for future events.

The Grand lent itself well with its 2 rows of 3 grand boxes providing vantage spots for gyrating clowns... Dot Cotton (part of The Late Night Shop Cabaret), and the team of clowns, provided the most colourful live entertainment.

www.thelatenightshop.co.nr

If in Clapham on a Saturday night, and a fantasy fusion of audio/visuals, clowning cabaret and retro sounds suit you then Bang & Boom Club should be experienced to be believed...!

www.boomandbang.co.uk
www.claphamgrand.com

words by:

Pierce de Resistance

Photography by Picturerama - James Drury

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

Cabaret Roulette's Ghost Stories at Madame Jojo's - Soho, London - October 2013

www.burlesquemap.co.uk

Created and produced by Vivacity Bliss, Cabaret Roulette is a burlesque show where all is a gamble. A new concept from the imagination of Vivacity, and born to bring you a flavour of the unexpected.

How does it work?

The public suggests various themes for future shows, on Cabaret Roulette's Facebook page. Then, on the night of a show, the audience chooses one theme among the most popular suggestions. The performers, who accept the challenge, have only a few weeks after the vote, to create their act.

If you remember some of the 1990s shows, where stand up comedians had to come up with witty lines from ideas thrown by the public, then you will appreciate how fast-working and imaginative these performers must be, in order to bring the audience a magnificent show.

Tonight's theme was Ghost Stories, maybe anticipating Halloween.

At the door, the Bloody Irish Catholic nun was ready to welcome you with her ghostly complexion. Putting the public in the mood for tonight's show, crazy Sister Euphemia (aka Ruth Young) was spookily friendly.

Lady Boudoir, the compère for the night, transpired to be quite a rebel in her own way. Whether she was in character, or just improvising, her language was more than ghostly…!

However, the performances made up for any small mishap. First on stage, Stage Door Johnny, a musical comedian, reminded me of Peter Kay's humour. The Northern wit and warmth took the whole room into a frenzy of laughter, again and again. Portraying a psychic medium, possessed by a spirit, he lost himself into a dancing act. Absolutely brilliant and hilarious…!

Ghost stories was the theme, and every performer had committed to it, so when magicians and comedians, Griffin & Jones, came on stage, curiosity struck as to how they would portray a ghost story. After choosing a woman from the audience, and asking her to pick a story from a book, Jones had to guess which one she had chosen.  After enduring sticky tape over his mouth, and being possessed by a spirit, Jones finally produced out of his mouth, the page the spectator had chosen at the beginning. A wonderful magic trick that brought the whole room in unison when exclaiming a loud "Wow…!".

When Anna Lou appeared with her accordion, nobody expected such a grand act with dry humour. Parisian chanteuse performing her ghost story comedy song 'Sleeping time sex-ghost' was a true jewel…! Anna Lou oozes talent, confidence incorporating banter, and perfectly done saucy bawdy humour…! Hip hip hooray for Anna Lou who received a standing ovation, as the whole crowd cheered frantically.

For a dancing troupe, maybe the challenge was a bit trickier, but Figs in Wigs astonished us when they choreographed 'Ghostbusters'. A bit cliché, you might think, but they were visually greatly entertaining, and judging by the ongoing applause, the audience enjoyed their performance considerably.

But nothing topped the Shirley Windmill act 'Funny bones', which, for me, was just fantastic! Shirley, in her skeleton onesie, rapped a ghost story that took the whole audience into a frenzy of delight, with laughter, hysteria and cheers. Her face expression and body language made the whole act the most original of the night! With her: 'Dark, dark cellar, in a dark, dark house, in a dark, dark street" she charmed and wowed the whole audience. Magical, Miss Shirley Windmill…!!

Tonight's show was filled with creative talent and was a massive success. It brought a variety of acts together under one theme, under the watchful critical eye of an audience, who seemed in awe of all the performers. Considering that many come back frequently, the gamble has paid off, Miss Vivacity Bliss…!!

If you want burlesque cabaret with a twist and tales of the unexpected, then Cabaret Roulette is the one…!
November 13th is their 1st Birthday party, a perfect reason to attend. After a two months' break, Cabaret Roulette will return in February with a 'Science' theme, then March will be 'Celebrities'. Choose one or all of them. Gamble your night away! You won't regret it…!!

Eva Lamour


Photography by: James Drury

Constance Peach and Lady Boudoir

Stage Door Johnny

Griffin and Jones

Griffin and Jones - with spectator

Chilli Blush

Anna Lou

Figs in Wigs

Shirley Windmill

Johnny Macaulay