Doesn't she possess an exquisite taste for the macabre? How can one not be intrigued by a striptease performancer called "Bloodbath"? You must read on...
1) The usual first question for these things: where does your interest for all things fetish comes from?
My interest in fetishism is primarily based on going against what is socially acceptable. Eroticism, sex, fetishism is a vast and largely unexplored taboo in our culture.
2) Are your skills as a makeup artists and costumer self-taught or did you follow some specific courses in these areas?
I learned how to sew in home economics class in the 7th grade and from my mother, who made all of my Halloween costumes growing up. I dabbled in it throughout my teens, but never perfected it. I'm still not very good, but since all of my work is solely for my own use it's good enough. If it's not something I'm capable of doing myself, my Mom will still help out, as do several other costumers I work with. As for my makeup training, yes, I did attend schooling to learn various techniques, etc., which has been very beneficial. I love the art form and the ability it gives you to transform people into another beingness.
3) What prompted you, four years ago, to make your debut as a burlesque performer?
I was introduced to the burlesque scene over seven years ago by a fellow performer, and quickly fell in love with the modern take on a classic art form. It was the one platform that encompassed all aspects of my personality and talents. A year after that, I was performing; which means I've been performing for about 6 years now- and loving every minute of it!
4) What are for you the perfect ingredients for a successful fetish event?
I don't personally produce fetish events, however being a producer of Burlesque events I can say that production value, strong talent, big budgets, the perfect venue and knowing your audience are all key.
5) As a petite model, can you claim that your size has given you advantages along some disadvantages?
I honestly can't say it has benefits nor disadvantages. I suppose I've never really thought about it. I often forget that I am petite, until someone mentions it. In my mind, I'm 5'9 at least. It's all about being confident with who you are. How you carry yourself, your presence is more important than size I think.
6) In what way would you say your style differ from other burlesque performers?
My style differs from other performers in the sense that I'm a storyteller. I incorporate theatre with classic striptease. Attacking the psyche is my speciality.
7) We’re very intrigued by your Bloodbath performance number… how did this one originate and what does it consist of, exactly?
I've been performing the bloodbath act for well over four years now. The act was originally developed for a show called 'Cabaret Des Vampyr.' I wanted to come up with an act that payed tribute to vampirism without being clichéd. That being said, I decided to base my act off of Countess Elizabeth Báthory. The act consists of voice over dialog written by myself and Josh Robert Thompson (from 'The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson') and performed by Josh and a female vocalist. The act is reminiscent of a traditional fairy tale, along the lines of the Brothers Grimm. The stage is set in the style of a Hammer Horror film made in the mid-50's, including a full-size claw foot bathtub filled with over 50 gallons of fake blood. I perform a traditional striptease prior to stepping into the tub, where I proceed to bathe in blood and bring the act to a climactic ending.
8) Which people in the burlesque and fetish scenes inspire you?
I am inspired by so many of the ladies in both the fetish and burlesque community; far too many to list. Those that inspire me have a true passion for what they do. It's not a persona, but a lifestyle. The drive, determination and excellence clearly runs through their veins.
9) We noticed that there’s an official website coming soon… what are your goals concerning it?
I'd like to see it up and running by June of 2010. I'm working with someone now that seems to understand what I'm going for. It will be a simple site, easy for the viewer to navigate, featuring your typical web set up: Photo Gallery, Store, News, etc. However, it will also include a members only section in which I will provide VIP perks.
10) Who can be the artist that did these cute cartoon drawings depicting you?
I've worked with several different artists, including Charlotte Thompson out of the UK, who has done several commissioned pieces for me including the bloodbath artwork. BigToe out of the U.S, whom I worked with on a Limited Edition silk screen piece with, as well as several other posters. Andrea Young, also out of the U.S., who did a pin-up style piece of me. And currently I am working with Gris Grimily (U.S.) on a limited edition silk screen poster.
11) Doing what you do and living in California, when are you going to take part in a cinematic adventure? What would be your ideal role?
I hope sometime in the near future. It is very difficult in Los Angeles to land roles in film or television if it is not your primary focus. However, I would love to make the cross-over to film at some point in my career, as I have several scripts/ideas ready to go. Ideal Role? 1950's-era horror/erotica Femme Fatale.
12) Did you get many opportunities to travel for modeling assignments or live shows? Any chance to see you in Montreal soon? ;)
I don't travel much as I am not a fan of flying, and the shows and productions I am involved in here in CA take up a lot of my time. However, I do travel if it is required (preferably by automobile!) I have yet to perform in Montreal, though. Perhaps I should work on that next.
