Dear Constant Reader,
Fake flowers, like real flowers, are seasonal. The craft shop won’t stock cherry blossoms in the fall or poinsettias in the summer.
Fortunately, on-line shops defy the calendar. It won’t be instant gratification, but it’s better than waiting for the next season to roll around.You can probably get some deals when the seasons do change and the craft store is trying to get rid of their now out-of-date inventory.
Dear Constant Reader,
A little seasonal tip:
In dry weather, like the winter months, ostrich plumes are prone to static electricity. It’s very entertaining at first to see the feather fronds standing on end like an angry cat’s fur, but it’s not so attractive and quickly gets annoying. A can of Static Guard is a worthwhile investment for the gal who likes feathers.
Dear Constant Reader,
You can curl ostrich fronds just like you curl ribbons on presents. Use a scissors or a dull knife and briskly run the frond across the blade. It’s time consuming, but presents a luxurious look.
Dear Constant Reader,
I am so sorry not to be keeping up with actual content here. Between a lovely trip to sunny Mexico (you may all be jealous now) and then falling ill (now you may be smug), I’ve not found it possible to take pen in hand. I’m working on a couple more book reviews and maybe I’ll show a few pictures from my trip. In the meant time, here’s today’s tip:
If you’re concerned about dropping your costume on the floor, arrange for a “catcher” to stand in the wings or at the side of the stage and toss her your costume bits.
Dear Constant Reader,
When buying bras for burlesque performance, it’s helpful to wear pasties, particularly the pasties you’re planning to wear for the number, in the dressing room. They could change how the bra fits and you can see if the pastie is going to peek out.
Dear Constant Reader,
When removing a pair of something, take off the second item in a different way from the first. Surprise the audience.
Dear Constant Reader,
Today’s tip comes from legendary coach, Vince Lombardi.
Practice does not make perfect. Only perfect practice makes perfect.
Now, Coach Lombardi was talking about football, but it certainly applies to burlesque (and lots of other stuff too). As you practice your routines, you’re building muscle memory. If you’re distracted or sloppy you’re going to be building bad habits too. Don’t just go through the motions when you’re rehearsing; really focus. Check your form, consider your facial expressions, wear the right shoes, &c.
Conversely, if you’re having a really bad day and nothing is working, recognize that and give it a rest for a little bit. You’re better off just dancing for fun for a while than beating your head against a proverbial wall. When you feel relaxed and focused, come on back and have a perfect practice.
Dear Constant Reader,
Today’s tip comes from Betty Blaize.
You can’t overestimate the impact of an eyelash curler for making your eyes look bigger. When the lash is framing your eye, not covering your eye, the impact is enormous.
Dear Constant Reader,
This week’s tip is inspired by a class on chair dance I’m teaching to the more advanced students at B.A.B.E.
When using a chair in your routine, bring your own chair to the venue. Do not expect the venue to have a chair you can use. You might need a straight-back chair and end up with a barstool, a swiveling office chair, or something broken.
And it’s always nice to perform with a chair that you’ve rehearsed with, so you know all its quirks.
P.S. Voting for the Weekly Dig’s “Dig This” awards ends tonight! You can vote as often as you like. Please vote for the Boston Babydolls for “Best Burlesque”!
Dear Constant Reader,
Today’s tip is for all those novice twirlers out there.
Practice tassel twirling with a mirror. If you look down to see how you’re doing, you’ll change your posture and most likely lose your twirl.
Oh, The Glamourous Life! 