FIVEBPINUPS.COM

Julie Edwards is an Austin based hair and makeup expert with a love for all things vintage glamour.    Her many years of experience combined with her knowledge of retro styling makes her the perfect ambassador of FIVEBPINUP beauty.  Based out of Ritual Salon in Austin, Julie is available consultation on any pinup look you might want to create. 

Presenting what she calls "The Speakeasy" hairstyle, watch Julie create a faux-bob right before your eyes in this new and exciting FIVEBPINUPS video!

The Devil Bunnies are a DYNAMIC group of amazingly gorgeous ladies that teeter the line between burlesque and fetish performances.  Hailing from San Antonio, The Devil Bunnies incorporate industrial style and fire-play with their oversexual performances. 

FIVEBPINUPS is THRILLED to have the Devil Bunnies as part of the Bawdy Burlesque cast.  You do NOT want to miss them while in Austin!

BUY TICKETS!

Greetings FIVEBPINUPS fans!

Benni Atchison, here!  If you've noticed, FIVEBPINUPS.COM has been on a bit of hiatus and has not provided any updates or articles in the past month.  We are currently restructuring the site in order to provide you will content that you will enjoy!  Please continue to check back periodically and "like" us on Facebook to receive TO THE MINUTE updates on models, performers, businesses and more!

Also, stay tuned for an EXCITING event to be announced on Wednesday, April 20th!

XOXO!

B to the Atchison

Founder - FIVEBPINUPS

benni@fivebpinups.com

Ruby Lamb is a fiery addition to the acclaimed Jigglewatts Burlesque troop in Austin, TX. Not only is she a beautiful performer with a style that is completely her own.. but she also spent several years performing with groups like The Satan's Cheerleaders and the Flametrick Subs. FIVEBPINUPS.COM is excited to have the opportunity to share her thoughts with you... read on!

So, Ruby, how would you describe the burlesque scene in Austin?

In a constant state of change. Austin has an abundant supply of amazing women. It’s nice to see all the performers in the same place when we are at benefits or other big events. It is also nice to be able to bring in girls from Dallas and Houston and Corpus.

How were you first exposed to burlesque?

I met Dixie Evans in 1996 when I was doing a story about a photography exhibit that featured Exotic World. Someone had set up an airstream trailer in which to take Polaroids. That’s when I got behind my first big, feathery fan.

What do you hope audiences take out of your performances?

I try to be generous with the audience, sometimes literally. I’ve fed them cookies more than once. I hope people feel engaged, inspired, delighted or even confused. As long as they feel something.

Are there any drawbacks to being a burlesque performer?

Packing for shows. Seriously! It takes a ridiculous amount of time. Also, most of us spend too much on our costumes. We can’t help it. Sparkly things, ahhh….

What do you credit your performance inspiration to?

I am driven by music. I was a college radio DJ for a number of years, and I have an iTunes folder of songs to use future dances.

To you, what is the definition of the term "pinup"?

I don’t think there is one definition anymore. There are dozens of subgroups—traditional, fetish, rockabilly, high concept . . .

Who are your pinup/style icons?

Louise Brooks, Elizabeth Taylor (late 50’s) and Shirley MacLaine (early 60’s).

For booking or updates on Ruby Lamb or the Jigglewatts, you can use the following contact methods..

www.facebook.com/rubylamb

www.rubylamb.com

rubylamb@rubylamb.com

Photo By Jaysen Turner

Eaton Johnson and Shelby Mine are members of Austin’s Premier Drag King troupe, Kings N’ Things. All 14 members of this gender positive group love to perform in the spirit of non-conformity and display a wide array of performance styles, including dance, drag, burlesque, mime, acro and more! Not only is this troupe filled with fantastic performers, they also donate proceeds from their shows and have raised over $10K for charitable organizations in Austin!

In addition to being members of Kings N’ Things, the partners have recently branched off and created the performance duo, Queertini Time, which focuses on comedic and unusual burlesque. This is how FIVEBPINUPS.COM discovered the two and we are really looking forward to working with these two more in the future!

Read on to hear their thoughts on performing and more!

So, Eaton… Shelby…. How would you describe your performance styles?

EJ:

My drag performances are usually laid back and full of comedy. I love doing pieces heavily attributed to Flight of the Conchords or SNL sketches. When performing burlesque duets with Shelby, we definitely try to incorporate a lot of those same flavors... combining comic timing, sauciness and telling a story to make a well-rounded, enjoyable piece.

SM:

I generally perform comedic, character-based burlesque. Telling an engaging story through the performance is always my goal. I'm no dancer! I took dance classes as a child which I think helps me with posture and being aware of my movement on stage, but I am quite out of practice when it comes to "proper dance."

How would you describe the burlesque scene in Austin?

EJ:

I think the burlesque scene in Austin is definitely varied and continuously growing. Over the years, I've seen classic burlesque, animalesque, body positivity, all forms of gender expression, aerialists, and more! It's thrilling to be a part of such a cosmopolitan community!

Where did you get your start in burlesque? How long have you been performing?

EJ:

I first started performing burlesque at our Kings N Things shows. With events every couple of months, it allowed Shelby and I a chance to work in our duets along with other pieces throughout the night. After we had a couple of performances under our belts, we applied to the Texas Burlesque Festival in 2010 and were accepted! That was my first festival to perform in and it was an outstanding experience full of amazing performances and wonderful people! I've been performing as a drag king for about 8 years and working with Shelby on our burlesque duets for about 3 years.

SM:

When I started performing with Kings N Things in 2004 I often had the opportunity to represent strong, seductive, feminine characters on stage. After seeing Jo Weldon and Dirty Martini at The Sex Workers Art Show in 2007, I was inspired to take my performance style to the next level: striptease! Having the support of my troupe members and our amazing fans gave me the confidence to debut my first burlesque number in early 2008.

How were you first exposed to burlesque?

EJ:

I've known about burlesque for a long time and have always enjoyed it, I mean, who doesn't?! Back when I was in college, I was a big gay on campus and organized bringing the Sex Workers Art Show to Austin for a number of years. The Sex Workers Art Show in 2007 is what really opened my eyes to the possibilities. But in the end, it was seeing Dirty Martini’s “Eve/Hidden Apple” piece on stage which introduced me to the many possibilities of burlesque!

SM:

I had stumbled upon some classic performances of Tempest Storm and Dixie Evans during late night Youtube viewings but I knew very little about the neo-burlesque scene until my first Sex Workers Art Show in 2005. I attended the show the following two years and in 2007 I was pulled on stage by Jo Weldon for an impromptu stripping lesson. That was quite an exposure...literally! I love the feeling of total freedom and liberation I have while I'm performing. I also love the crazy ideas that develop when collaborating with Eaton and Kings N Things!

What do you hope audiences take out of your performances?

SM:

Confidence! One of the most amazing things I've experienced since I started performing burlesque is having audience members thank me for representing plus-sized women on stage. For some audience members, seeing me naked and confident on stage encourages them to think about their own bodies in a new way. I have had the pleasure of having some very touching and emotional conversations about body acceptance and self esteem with audience members after my performances. And of course I want the audience to laugh and have fun!

.

Are there any drawbacks to being a burlesque performer?

EJ:

I think the hardest thing for me, personally, in the burlesque community is my own worry that what I'm doing isn't "burlesque enough." Since I perform in drag, I don't get down to pasties or anything, I basically strip down to underwear and a fitted t-shirt. When I first started performing burlesque with Shelby, I was worried that what I was doing wasn’t “good enough” or “burlesque enough.” Via many-a-conversations with Shelby and amazing feedback from fellow performers and audience members, I’ve come to embrace what I do and how I do it; and I feel proud and excited about my part in burlesque!

SM:

Money! This habit costs a fortune! I try to think thriftily when planning my costumes and props but it never seems to help. Also, sometimes I feel like I am the only drag or burlesque performer in the world that doesn't enjoy crafting and sewing! I'm just not very good at those things so trying to turn my vision into reality can often be a stressful process for me. It is a good thing Eaton is handy with a thread and needle; he has helped me salvage my costume disasters multiple times!

What are the most memorable shows that you've performed?

EJ:

I think my “firsts” have been the most memorable to me so far. My first solo piece as a drag king was to Leonard Cohen’s “I’m Your Man.” It was the most nerve-racking experience to get up on stage in front of a sold-out crowd by myself! In the end, the feeling I got on stage and the feedback I received is what launched my 8+ years of performance! Performing in the Texas Burlesque Festival last year was Shelby’s and my first time to perform burlesque in a festival atmosphere. We received such a warm response and got such amazing feedback from some of our biggest heroes in burlesque! Having that experience really made me feel like I was a part of this community; inspiring me to look forward and create! Create! Create!

What do you credit your performance inspiration to?

SM:

I am inspired by so many things! Often my numbers start with a character concept (I want to be a telephone operator, a stewardess, etc.) and then I find a piece of music that supports that concept. I have no allegiance to a particular style of music but I do seem to be drawn to Big Band standards of the 40s and 50s. I almost always lip synch in my numbers as an influence of my drag performance background. It is fun (and a touch transgressive) to perform to female versions of well known songs performed by classic male crooners like Frank Sinatra or Bobby Darin.

Do you have any big news for 2011?

SM:

Well, Eaton and I got engaged this winter and will be tying the knot in early 2012! It will be an exciting year of balancing wedding planning and performing! I am also super excited to be attending the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend for the first time this year. I hope that seeing the best of the best in burlesque will inspire me to take my performance to the next level!

EJ:

Big News? Queertini Time has been accepted to perform in the Southern Fried Burlesque Fest in Atlanta, Georgia so we're very excited about that! We're definitely looking forward to seeing all the amazing performers and running into old friends. We'll also be performing at Burlesque for Peace and have submitted to the Texas Burlesque Fest here in Austin and we'll be keeping our eyes and ears out for other events happening in hopes to, if not perform, then definitely attend!

Kings N’ Things will host their 9th Anniversary show this May at Elysium in Austin and it will be a show that you will not want to miss! Both Shelby and Eaton will also have various other performances coming up… You can find information about ‘Queertini Time’ on Facebook or Twitter and ‘Kings N Things’ can be found at Facebook, Twitter and at www.kingsnthings.org. Direct booking can be done at queertinitime@gmail.com

The Duke City Gypsy, a member of Austin's Black Widow Burlesque, is a world traveller that never settles down for too long! With a background in ballet and jazz, this gorgeous blonde's style tends to lean towards the traditional form of burlesque.

RaRa Roxette, also a member of Black Widow Burlesque, can be described as cheeky, funny and playful. Her performances are always well thought out and the brunette bombshell brings a level of entertainment to the stage that few can match.

Both ladies are great friends to FIVEBPINUPS and we were more than excited to have a sit down with them to pick their brains. Read on to hear their thoughts on performing, the Austin burlesque scene and more!!

So, Ladies... How would you describe the burlesque scene in Austin?

DCG: I think the scene is supportive, diverse, and all about having a good time. i love that austin sustains so many different troupes and that all the girls represent different styles.

RRR: The scene here is super supportive and diverse. Everyone is so distinct that it doesn’t feel like anyone steps on each other’s toes style wise. I thoroughly enjoy the comradery amongst the performers and it’s always such a treat to do shows with the other ladies in town and see how we each interpret our craft.

Where did you ladies get your start in burlesque?

DCG:
I first did burlesque in 2006 with a troupe in albuquerque called the Women of Babylon. Our show was a collection of stories from the bible re-enacted through burlesque.

RRR: I originally auditioned for Black Widow Burlesque for an emcee position but thought it would be a fun challenge to put together a dance routine. My other creative outlet is standup comedy so the idea of burlesque dancing was out of my comfort zone. But BWB saw something in me and invited me to join the troupe as a dancer. I've been performing burlesque well over a year and a half now and comedy for about three years.

How were you first exposed to burlesque?

DCG: My BA is in theater, and I love to be on stage. I saw burlesque as a way to become a new character, to include my interest in dance and costume-making, and to be part of a really fun community.

RRR: I first saw burlesque at Lannie’s Clocktower in Denver, CO and just fell in love with the confidence the women had. Fannie Spankings, who is a performer in Denver, epitomized a woman living the life she deserves, and I was in awe with the decadence and dazzle of the show and ladies. If I could live my life onstage I would. I love being under the lights and feeding off each crowds unique energy. Each time on stage is a thrill and exhilarating and its addictive.

What are the most memorable shows that you've performed?

DCG: A number I'll never forget was one I did with Women of Babylon; I was eve and had this leaf costume. I got to dance with a two other dancers: the devil (a woman) and adam (a man). It's so much fun to do turns and spins with a guy lifting you up! The song was madonna's "Hanky Panky".

RRR: At our Anniversary Show at the Highball last year, I heard a rumor that Hall & Oats (who were in town performing) were in the audience. The idea of Hall & Oats seeing my goodies is memorable enough for me.

To you, what is the definition of the term "pinup"?

DCG: I think pinup is the combination of retro glamour, sex appeal, and “girl-next-door” innocence.

RRR: A pin up is a woman who owns her sensuality and just can't help being self-possessed and sexy at everything she does.

How would you describe yourself as a "modern pinup"?

DCG: With burlesque and modeling, I try to focus on the “tease”, the fun of the anticipation of the big reveal. While I’m covered in tattoos and have an athletic body (versus more of the traditional curves), I still try to convey the classic glamour of pinup.

RRR: I'm a modern pinup because I'm an average woman who enjoys food, love and life to its fullest. I'm not perfect but it’s that imperfection that makes me beautiful and spectacular.

Black Widow Burlesque will be having their second Anniversary Show on April 8th at the Art Authority. To learn more about future events you can visit www.blackwidowburlesque.com or e-mail blackwidowbooking@gmail.com

Ginger Snaps is a burlesque performer, model and when not 300% glamorous.. a makeup artist with experience in theatre, film and photography.  This member of Black Widow Burlesque in Austin has curves for days, a look that will keep you staring.. and humor that will keep you giggling. 

Watch her video to hear her thoughts on all things we care about!

You can reach Ginger Snaps in the following ways:

www.facebook.com/gingersnapsburlesque

www.blackwidowburlesque.com

For Makeup / Hair Bookings:

wendy@wendymichellesanders.com

www.wendymichellesanders.com

San Antonio's Pantie Oaklie can only be described as engaging, funny, and theatrical. Her performances are based in live theater, with broadway dance and jazz being her main style. She is the co-founding member of Oh Baby! Burlesque!, a classic-oriented troupe with a weekly show every Saturday night at Dixie's Country Bar.

Read on to hear Ms. Oaklies thoughts on performing, her community and inspiration!!

So, Ms. Oaklie, what attracted you to burlesque?

Honestly, the first time I ever saw a Burlesque performer was on Whose Line Is It Anyway? Colin was performing in front of a green screen that was showing video of a dancer twirling tassels, and the moment I saw her, I knew I had to learn how! I love performing for so many reasons. Being onstage allows you to share the deepest parts of yourself, but also lets you keep a mask over the parts you don't want anyone to see. I love being able to share so much of my creative self with my audiences!

What do you hope audiences take out of your performances?

The fun, silliness, and sensual energy that burlesque is based in. I want to keep true to the comedic aspects of vaudeville, as well as the central point of burlesque- taking off your clothes!

Are there any drawbacks to being a burlesque performer?

Doing burlesque, you will always encounter those that think taking your clothes off in public is wrong. It's hard to explain to your christian grandmother that you enjoy doing this kind of performance, but, it's always something we'll deal with, and you kind of get over people telling you you're sinful.

What do you credit your performance inspiration to?

All kinds of things! Sometimes I'll find the perfect costume piece, and the routine will form around it. Sometimes a song will just grab me, and force me to dance to it! We do a monthly Theme show at Dixie's, so at least once a month I get inspiration from that! We've done Movies, Holidays, Musicians, and we're about to tackle TV! I do typically stick to music from between 1920-1960, but I do indulge myself in more current stuff everyone once in a while...

To you, what is the definition of the term "pinup"?

A pin-up, to me, is a representation of beauty, and an appreciation of the female form, often with a vintage or retro feel. A kind of beauty that everyone can relate to, and see some part of themselves in. A girl that guys could see themselves with, and a girl could see herself as.

What elements do you think are important to include when recreating pinup images?

Staying true to the idea of the shoot-- finding a great classic car, implementing a great vintage hairstyle, or using the right kinds of facial expressions can really turn a simple photograph into a great pin-up image.

To book or find more information on Pantie Okalie or Oh Baby! Burlesque! you can visit their website at www.wix.com/ohbabyburlesque/ohbaby and also e-mail ohbabyburlesque@aol.com

Mind's Eye Photography in San Antonio specializes in artistic, portrait and small event photography. Areas of focus for portraiture are maternity, family, couple, boudoir, and model. Owner and Operator, Edward Chevalier, also prides himself on helping brides, retirees, special guests and more bring out the most important facets of their small events. Read on to hear Edward's own thoughts on his business and pinup photography!

So, Edward.. tell us about yourself and Mind's Eye Photography

I started in photography using a Nikkormat FT (made in 1965) that was given to me by my grandfather. I have not strayed far from my roots; today I use all Nikon equipment.

I currently work in San Antonio, Texas. However, as a member of the United States Air Force I have had the opportunity to photograph locations in Europe (Scotland, England, France, Belgium, Spain, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Austria, and Poland) and the United States (Washington D.C., Texas, Oklahoma, Illinois, New Mexico, California, Mississippi, Louisiana, Nevada, Florida, Colorado, Florida, and Alabama).

I was born in San Antonio, Texas, in 1969. I learned photography from my grandfather and received a bachelor's degree from Southwest Texas State University (now Texas State University) in San Marcos, Texas, in 1991, and a Masters of Business Administration from William Carey College in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, in 1995. I currently live in Selma, Texas, with my wife, Adrienne and three wonderful children.

To you, what is the definition of the term "pinup"?

A pinup is a girl or a photo of a girl that is both sexy and innocent all at the same time. Even the "edgy" pinups must still have that duality.

Where do you find the inspiration for pinup shoots?

My wife, my love of old movies, and the works of Vargas and Elvgren inspire my pinup/boudoir photography. I also love WWII aircraft noseart and pinups with old cars.

To book a shoot with Mind's Eye Photography or to view their portfolio, you can visit www.mephotosa.com or contact them directly at contact@mephotosa.com!