Thread: getting my first shows, (anywhere in the uk) very elaborate costumes, but a beginer.

hello!
i was wondering how to go about getting people to book me for shows
(''getting people'' sounds abit forceful! but you know what i mean!)

i have been making costumes for stage shows for years and i have many elaborate costumes for my self as making them is a hobby as well as a job.
they are very big, covered in crystals and ostrich feathers and have cost many £1000s over the years (lost count of the price, well i IGNORE the cost actually.. haha)i am wanting to take the plunge and put my work to good use.

does anyone know any places i could contact for gigs?
because although my costumes look like that of Miss Von Teese i am very much a beginer and have no experience of performing.
Thank you

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Where are you based?

I don't want to suggest X if it's half way across the country

anywhere is fine as i have a car but the south would be better
x

they sound wow, I guess networking with other people in the industry will eventually lead to on stage performances.

A lot of performers start of at a local night, unpaid in a newbie slot, often just one act in the show. This is really nice as it gives you the chance to either watch the rest of the show, or make friends with the other performers backstage. (there is often someone who needs balloons blowing up or something!)

To get these slots, find a local-ish show to you and go and talk to the person who organises it. They may want to see your routine before putting you on, but some will just let you on anyway.

It just kind of goes from there really. Chances are, someone else performing there will have their own show, if you get on with them and your act is good, they will fit you on the bill if you apply to them. Applying to shows is great - and there are loads of threads about how to do this. Danni California knows a lot about writing CVs and offered some great advice. However, the thing I've found with applying in response to adds, it that it's far less effective than actually meeting, being friendly (but professional) with promoters. If people know you personally, they will have more trust in you turning up and doing a good job!

Another note about applying for shows... Know your show! There are some great shows near us that we don't apply for because we've been to them, and we are not the sort of act I think they would want. There are so many different style of burlesque/cabaret performance, it's worth seeking out shows that want the sort of act you offer.

But firstly, find a local show, and network! I hate the word network, I really just mean chat to people, be friendly and open. Don't expect money for a while, you may get it but don't expect it, then it's just a nice suprise when it comes.

Good luck and have fun!

Excellent answer twiggy

Sometimes I talk sense... although it is rare! x

Ive just realised where I recognise you from Twiggy, you did a hilarious rock star act in chester a few weeks ago.

yeah, that was me... with the enormous cock!

Originally Posted by Twiggy StarLust

yeah, that was me... with the enormous cock!

I do love your..... act!

I'm unable to further this comment as everything I say could be construed as rude (and quite rightly so)