Sheena Miss Demeanour at Gallery Burlesque Photo Onur Karaozbek
Onur Karaozbek, curator and producer of Gallery Burlesque, talks to Ruby TV about burlesque, beats and his next event.
When did you start doing Gallery Burlesque events, why and how have the evenings developed?
I never called myself an artist but family and friends have been kind enough to label me one… So as an individual in the arts field, like many others, I have felt the need for more avenues to create and show all forms of art… Being in the performance and burlesque area was a bonus I guess when I started doing my Art Gallery nights. I started the nights over 2 years ago but it came to a solid form as Gallery Burlesque late December 2009.
What is the theme and vibe for the event on 12th January?
As Gallery Burlesque is a gathering of artists, performers and creators I never put forward a theme… as every visual artist is bringing something personal to the table I like the burlesque performers to do the same and show their art on stage…
What artists will we see at this next event?
This show is titled “After a Few Drinks” and will be featuring the works of talented artists: Julie Doye, Nic Bezzina, Graeme Balchin, Sophie Schirmer & Shayne Fergusson with performances by burlesque beauties and gent: La Bec, Venus Vamp, Jet Jadore, Evie Va Voom, Minnie Moonshine, Miss Ruby Delight, Lucille Spielfuchs, Sheena Miss Demeanour & Herbie Strangelove.
What for you does burlesque mean and why should it be an important part of life?
When we end up talking about burlesque I have a different point of view on things… as Igrew up with a father that told me stories of the Beat generation and the life that has surrounded it… grew up to study the Beats (a lot) and in a way become a Neo-Beat (not a Beatnik where most people think of them as stoner bongo players which they are not)… With the notion of that generation and the knowledge of the connections between two forms of ideology and art, burlesque becomes an outlet for spontaneity, free form of self-expression and in- your- face antics of crazy women and men alike… And I’d be sad if it becomes an “important part of life” for everything that has become that “important’ has lost its core value and essence…
What should the audience anticipate and how should they dress?
Anticipate nothing, expect everything….
Oh and no thongs please (the footwear kind)
Gallery Burlesque will be on Wednesday 12th January at Tone. The following event will be held on Febrary 2nd.
Tone, 16 Wentworth Avenue, Surry Hills, Sydney.
Door open at 7:30 and performances from 8:30. All for a mere ten dollars.
