You don't "look" classic.

       In the time I've spent in the burlesque industry I've found out one very disturbing thing. When you're  tattooed you are discriminated against. Especially if your a classic performer. 

          (Me- by tanner photography)

     It's a sad fact that most performers get booked due to appearance. As much as we stand for body appreciation and the arts, it still baffles me that wonderful performers don't get booked due to someone else's opinions. I've read many articals about ladies not being booked due to size but there are others who are feeling some of the darkness of the business. 

     My grievance is with those who think tattooed women are a novelty, or people who think there has to be a "certain" show for those individuals. Ladies have been getting tattooed for centuries and I'm sure at least one or two legends had tattoos. Granted, due to the same reasons we have today, probably had to cover them. 

       (Unknown tattooed lady 1900s)

     Now I understand the whole "classic look" and that tattoos aren't something the general public will relate to when thinking of vintage ladies. But just like today there were several. Being judged by your tattoos, to me, is no different then any other discrimination. It offends me greatly to hear "yeah he won't book me, he's not a fan of tattoos". 

       (Photo above- Lou Lou D'Vil- photo by Harmon house productions)

      In 2013 the burlesque hall of fame crowned Lou Lou D'Vil as the reigning queen of burlesque. I was ecstatic! I thought, "finally people will see that no matter the amount of tattoos you have you can still do classic burlesque, and be queen". That year seemed to open up some opportunities to me that I hadn't previously had. Chances to perform in higher end burlesque shows with some of the top performers in my area. I even got the chance to share the stage with Lou Lou.

    The love didn't last long. I found myself feeling as rejected as I had previously. From not being excepted into shows I felt I would be perfect for to being turned down for publications. Everywhere there seems to be a person with a lot of power in the industry saying "you don't look the part". 

(Ruby Lead- foul play cabaret hot springs AR- photo by Devin castle designs) 

    After tattooing and talking with some other tattooed ladies in the industry I found that it doesn't matter how amazing of a performer you might be, there's people who won't like you just because you decided to get tattooed. This will be battle for my entire career. I know this, but im prepared. My love of classic burlesque won't be swayed by someone else's thoughts. I won't decide to start doing neo burlesque to be booked more. I won't cover my tattoos for your magazines or shows. The amount of time, pain, and money I've put into my skin is something I am proud of. It's my own way to display art that I love, which is something that shouldn't have anything to do with my performance. 

        (Me by Devin castle designs) 

     My advice to young burlesquers is to think about everything you do to your body. A small tattoo on your foot can cause you shows, publication, and sometimes awards. But if you are already tattooed don't let anyone stand in your way. When one door closes others do open. Don't dwell on those producers who judge people on petty things like that. Once your amazing they will regret not booking you before. If you want to do classic. Do it. If you want to do pin up. Do it. Don't let them label you as alternative. Alternative to what? Be yourself, be proud, be tattooed. 

      ~Doris 

     Xoxoxo

(All opinions are mine and mine only)