Feathers, sequins, fishnets, feather boas, circus skills and singing saws – burlesque performers certainly know how to put on a show.
Prepare to be dazzled by Brandy Montmartre, Kirkcaldy’s very own award-winning international burlesque sensation, when she shares the stage with the brightest stars the UK has to offer in the Twilight Tease Burlesque Revue.
The show – the first burlesque event at the Adam Smith Theatre in Kirkcaldy for two decades – promises to be jam-packed with glitz, glamour and a dash of class to tantalise and tease you.
Dressing up is encouraged, and there’ll be a prize for the best dressed.
Alongside show producer Brandy, 31, will be five performers – Markee de Saw, Rock Hart, Ebony Silk, Ruby Trix and newcomer Poppy Fields.
Brandy, who was crowned Burlesque Idol Scotland 2016, said: “I don’t want to give too much away about individual acts, but it will certainly be a fantastic mix which adds up to a very entertaining evening. January is such a cold month so why not warm it up a little?”
Brandy will perform two raunchy yet classy acts on the night, as well as ensuring everything runs smoothly backstage.
“I’ll perform my signature act, Fireball, and one other act, but I’ll keep that one a surprise!” she said.
“Expect the unexpected – feathers, showgirls, and a diverse range of entertainers that will dazzle and delight!”
Brandy, whose real name is Hannah Rose, was first spotted on the dancefloor of the Burlesque Ball in Edinburgh by producers Chaz Royal and Betty Rose Royal in 2015.
These days she’s a professional burlesque entertainer, performing her act across the UK, but she’s also studying for a PHD in Spanish comics at Dundee University.
All her “free” time is spent choreographing shows, making her own costumes, sourcing backing music, and then it’s up to her to direct the lighting technicians and stage crew.
“There are many types of burlesque but my act is classic,” she said. “It’s very high glamour, with 1950s pin-up style dresses, feathers, rhinestones and crystals.
“I’ve been collecting bits to add to my outfits for years, mostly online, and I’m very handy with sewing patterns.”
Brandy describes her fire-themed signature act as high energy, fun and feel-good, and is adamant that it’s definitely not seedy or sordid.
“It’s more a celebration of your sexuality and there are many different types. It’s a pure form of art that isn’t diluted.”
Her advice to anyone wanting to break into the burlesque scene is to see lots of shows. Those lucky enough to have secured a ticket for the cracking Kirkcaldy event on January 20 (which is now sold out) are in for a treat. But thanks to popular demand, Brandy has organised a second show on February 10 at Teviot Underground at Teviot Row Union in Edinburgh.
For more details on the Kirkcaldy show see www.onfife.com
To book tickets for the Edinburgh show see www.eusa.ed.ac.uk
