Preparing For Your Diva Debut......Developing your inner Diva

2011 -my first 'official' burlesque show

   I fell in love with the world of burlesque almost 2 years ago, but at first I wasn't sure if she loved me back. On stage, the glitz and glamour appeared magically, as if out of nowhere. However, as we quickly come to learn with most things in life;appearances can often be misleading...or misinterpreted.
   In the beginning (heheh, that sounds so biblical), back stage was chaos, traces of fringe thrown about, misc fishnet stockings hanging from mirror light bulbs, missed stage ques, and an assortment of fears amidst the performers.  Some were doubtful of their choreography, a few predicting wardrobe malfunctions, others concerned with their body images, and of course a couple doses of traditional stage fright. Over time things grew less and less complicated, new habits formed and protocol set in-and  the only thing that paved way for this growth was not experience, it was not a class, nor a book, or a YouTube video- it was simply confidence. Now, don't hear me as saying that experience and classes and such did not aid in the finished product, but those factors alone mean nothing without the element of confidence, you can STUDY something all you want, but if u lack confidence in yourself, you will forever hold yourself back and the efforts of your study will be in vain. The glitz and glamour are magical, and the magicians trick is confidence.
   This month, I began planning my role in one of the biggest festivals supporting the art of burlesque in Kansas City, Fringe Fest. Show prep is tedious, detail oriented, and often very sweaty ;making art look easy is actually a bit difficult. The behind the scenes process is the foundation for ANY diva, regardless of your particular art, talent or skill.
 How we prepare for life and approach  all opportunities, big or small will ultimately determine the height of our successes. Confidence creates accountability. The more confident you become, the more likely you are to begin doing things to back up that confidence. You will want to study, practice, and research your art because now you have set a higher standard for yourself and are not afraid to actually go for it. People who want to do things, do things. People who want to become things, become things, and people who want to talk about doing and becoming things, TALK about doing and becoming things...catch my drift??

  I have come to notice that people that lack confidence hang out in the same place.....it's called, THE BOX!!!! BEWARE OF THE BOX!!!! There are few things I believe in being afraid of, the box is at the top of that list. It is the ugly evil cousin of the black hole and it will attempt to drain your diva-ness from every pore of your soul. Everything that has and will ever exist was once upon a time someones out of the box idea, and without confidence many great idea would have been abandoned out of fear. Do not let this happen to you. Do not let labels, stereotypes, negativity, expectations or image rob you of seeking the lessons you need on your individual path.

***Diva Assignment 2***
My favorite part of show prep is pampering myself, it reminds me of what it means to be a woman, it makes me feel sexy and sensual and ALIVE. Every diva needs this. Begin thinking about your pampering session early in the day, keeping in mind that ALL of our experience occur first in the mind, the more you amp this pampering session up in your mind the better. However, your actual experience does not have to be complicated. Focus on thinking about how relaxing your bath is going to be that evening, imagine the bath scents you will use, perhaps a glass of wine, some soft music and a candle. I often splurge on new bath products when I stressed and it ALWAYS helps. Wearing sexy lingerie under  your work clothes is also VERY helpful, it's like having on a dirty lil secret all day, try it...I especially love thigh high stockings with garter belts! Adding a touch of sexuality and sensuality does wonders for restoring a womanly balance amidst the chaos of life.
  After you have teased yourself mentally, indulge yourself. Let time be free and celebrate yourself...all, and I do mean ALL of yourself. Be comfortable with and within your own skin, every inch. It is a proven fact that the more time you spend unclothed the more comfortable you will become with your body- so get naked and chill, by yourself. Put on some grooves, light some incense paint your toes, through on an egg white facial with some cucumbers over your eyelids, and just lay in your bed naked for a good while....if you begin to feel daring get up, dance, stretch, clean..whatever but do it naked!!! I promise you there is a method to my madness, stick with me!