I started my burlesque journey in 2000 🫥 and about 7 years ago called it a day because I was disenchanted with the lack of community within it. The mean girl era of performers was at an all time high and as someone who is NOT competitive and an empath, it was just too much on my mental health. During the pandemic I reflected on all the things I missed that I truly enjoyed and burlesque was one of them. With the encouragement of friends and peers in the community I decided to dust off the tassels and give it another go. I joined forces with friends to create a safe space and give community where it wasn’t and we started @thehouseofburlesque While none of us are perfect, we are still learning and growing and trying to make space for everyone to feel welcome despite our pasts. And wouldn’t you know, not much has changed. It’s been brought to my attention that people are saying to not support us and don’t come to our shows. To learn this is disappointing as the soul purpose is to GROW AND CONNECT the community and give opportunities to those who might not otherwise get it. So for those of you who think it’s cute to be a hater, it ain’t. I can only hope that they can get out of that mean girl mentality and learn that cancel culture doesn’t leave room for people to change and grow. May they find peace ✌️ May they themselves grow into a better version of themselves 🔮 May they learn to live and let live and work on their shadows 🧿 Then they may find that they too have room with us. I may be an optimist but I believe change and I believe we can all get to a place where we are genuinely happy to see each other thrive. And in that space, we will be stronger together and unity, community and success for all is possible. Thanks for coming to my stripper Ted talk. Sending love to you all, wherever you stand in this. . Photo by @ginabarbaraphotography Costume @prettymacabre