This photo was shot on film backstage at one of my first theatre gigs, circa 2002. Being the only one working wardrobe during the Shim Sham Revue taught me so many skills that would serve me throughout my career in live entertainment. The dressing room was the size of a closet and had to fit all six of our talented burlesque dancers, a dashing MC, the larger than life house comedienne, and whomever our featured guest happened to be that evening. The drummer for our live band was backed up right against the curtain where the girls were getting ready, and it wasn’t unusual for there to be a few unfortunate interactions. All of the quick changes were intense and included wigs as well as makeup application, much of which was thick concealer to hide tattoos that would inevitably come off along with the various stripped off costume pieces. The time in between shows was brief and I was often left with only moments to spare before second show’s opening curtain. Suffice it to say, I loved every minute of it.
When I arrived in Vegas and began working large-scale productions, I was amazed by how easy the show tracks were in comparison. My time in that old New Orleans venue challenged me in so many ways and the lessons I learned have served me well throughout the years. The current situation sees countless performers, vendors, and backstage crew missing the call of the stage as we watch our industry be decimated. Many of us are feeling a bit lost right now, but doing everything we can to preserve our craft. The future is uncertain, but be sure of one thing – we can’t wait to entertain you again ❤️