We sat down for an exclusive interview with Ivy Paige (alter ego of Artiste Lucy Ryan) ahead of An Evening with Burlesque currently on tour across the UK (and hitting the Tyne Theatre & Opera House on 21st February). Tickets here.
Burlesque isn’t just about the tease—it’s about power, playfulness, and pure joy! It’s a world where glamour meets wit, where every wink and twirl tells a story, and where we celebrate femininity, confidence, and FUN in all its dazzling forms.
Burlesque has such a rich history—what drew you to the world of feathers, sequins, and fabulousness?
Oh, darling, burlesque is a revolution wrapped in satin and lace! It’s the perfect mix of theatre, tease, and total empowerment—a space where women can own their sensuality, revel in their power, and have a damn good time doing it. I fell in love with burlesque because it’s not about fitting in, it’s about standing out—about taking up space, commanding attention, and celebrating every single inch of yourself. And let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want to twirl across the stage in a rhinestone corset and feathered headdress?
Do you have any pre-show rituals or lucky charms that get you in the mood to dazzle?
Oh, darling, of course! First, I do a little shimmy—nothing warms up the body (and the attitude) quite like it! Then, I take a moment in the mirror, give myself a knowing wink, and remind myself: You are powerful, you are fabulous!
‘An Evening of Burlesque’ promises glamour, laughter, and a touch of mystery—what’s one thing audiences might be surprised to learn about the show?
They might expect the tease, but they won’t be ready for the joy! Burlesque isn’t just about seduction—it’s about celebration! The audience gets swept up in the fun, the fabulousness, and the sheer exhilaration of performers who own the stage like the queens they are. And let’s not forget the comedy! Burlesque has always had a cheeky, playful side, and let’s just say—if you sit in the front row, you might find yourself part of the show!
If you could describe the essence of burlesque in three words, what would they be?
Empowerment. Playfulness. Spectacle.
Costumes play such a huge role in burlesque—have you ever had a wardrobe malfunction on stage, and how did you handle it?
A burlesque performer without a wardrobe malfunction is like a show without glitter—it just doesn’t happen! I once had a corset that simply refused to unlatch, so what did I do? I made it part of the act! A dramatic gasp, a flick of the wrist, and a perfectly timed bit of comedy later, and the audience was howling with laughter. That’s the beauty of burlesque—it’s not about perfection, it’s about confidence. When something goes wrong, you own it, darling, and you make it look like it was all part of the show!
What’s your favorite part of performing in this show—seeing the audience’s reactions, the camaraderie backstage, or something else entirely?
Oh, it’s the electricity in the room! The moment the lights hit, the music starts, and you feel the energy shift. You see people letting go, laughing, leaning in, completely lost in the moment. That’s when you know—you’ve got them. And backstage? Oh, my dear, it’s a glittering sisterhood, filled with last-minute lipstick touch-ups, corset-lacing teamwork, and a whole lot of laughter. The best part? Seeing women in the audience light up with confidence and inspiration—because burlesque isn’t just for the stage, it’s a mindset!
What would you say to someone who’s never seen burlesque before and isn’t sure what to expect?
Prepare to be enchanted, exhilarated, and thoroughly entertained! This isn’t just a show—it’s a spectacle! Expect jaw-dropping glamour, powerhouse performances, and a whole lot of cheeky fun. You’ll laugh, you’ll cheer, and by the end of the night, you might just be tempted to try a little shimmy yourself! Burlesque is about confidence, joy, and celebrating who you are—so come with an open mind, a playful spirit, and a love of all things fabulous!
So, my darling, when are you coming to see the show? Or better yet—when are you joining the cast? Because burlesque isn’t just something you watch, it’s something you feel—and trust me, you belong in the spotlight, too!