1-What drew you to burlesque?

As a dancer and an actress, I found my dance background didn't allow me to be competitive as a musical theater performer. I have years of ballet, jazz, and middle eastern dance training. In New York if you want to be on Broadway you really need years of tap and musical theater dance.

2-What were your oldest memories of someone who showed skin that you actually noticed?

My family was pretty open. Showing your body wasn't a big deal growing up, so I can't really say.

3-What music or songs did you play most often when you began to love to dance?

Growing up I listened to a lot of hip hop and R &B. My sister and I would grab the radio and go outside and just dance for hours. I've yet to choreograph a burlesque number to an R&B song, but I'm working on it.

4-Were you always comfortable being the center of attenion in a group or crowd or were you somewhat shy when you were the focal point?

I don't think I like being the center of attention. When I perform, I like my art to be the focus. When audience members compliment me after a show, I feel that they are complimenting the work. I guess that's my training as an actor. You learn to seperate yourself from the character

5-Is it easier to perform showing skin to a room full of people as opposed to performing a fully clothed act or song or speech when your talent is more on the table?

NO! I did a talent pageant and it was hard to get people to take me seriously eventhough I was doing a legitmate middle eastern dance number. The young woman who gave a ten minute speech (you were only allowed to have a 5 minute act) won. That was first the first time it really hit home. Some people are uncomfortable with the human body. and people who are uncomfortable with their own bodies will judge you negatively. I recently got into a argument with a casting director who felt she needed to school me on how to dress for an audition. If I want to wear fishnet tight to get into character I'll do it. She was clearly uncomfortable with her self and projected that onto me. There are limits though. I actually disapprove of women who wear midriffs and short skirts in the office. There's a time and a place for everything.

6-Was there a time when your parents thought that the Benny Hill Show was too sexy back then?

My mom was the cool mom who went out dancing and took me shopping for crop tops. I don't think she's even seen the Benny Hill Show.

7-What or who shaped your favorite style that inspired your personality?

I think my style is a mix of many personalities. I love the decadent wardrobes of Dita Von Teese and her use of props. But I definitely power tips from the style books of Bettie Page and Marilyn Monroe. I think it's great to feel inspiration from others but you have to strike out on your own, otherwise you just become a lookalike. I'm not looking to be an impersonator.

8-Do you think showing your belly button draws more attention? From men or women more?

I think women in general can appreciate a toned tummy.