Tease-O-Rama to skip 2011, possible return in 2012

I recently chatted with Baby Doe, the main organizer of Tease-O-Rama (TOR) and the Artistic Director and Choreographer of the Devil-Ettes, and I asked her about the possibility of there being a show this year. The last event occurred in 2008.

The short answer is that she is not planning a TOR for this year, although she seemed optimistic that there would be one next year.

I'm constantly reminded of the important role that TOR has played in the neo-burlesque revival. In 2001, it was the first convention dedicated to bringing together neo-burlesque participants for performances, classes, socializing, and support.

Whether remembering the late Eddie Dane, or at the Q&A session of the screening of the film "On Tour" at the San Francisco International Film Festival's closing night, Tease-O-Rama came up in conversations. It was where performers met each other in person for the first time, or learned about neo-burlesque, or even gained a role in a film.

In fact, this year the Burlesque Hall of Fame (BHoF) will be honoring Baby Doe and her fellow TOR founders Alison Fensterstock and Debbie Mink on Sunday at this year's BHoF Weekend, June 2 to 5, at the Orleans Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. This event is similar to TOR, where performers from all around the world come to Vegas to meet each other, watch world-class performances, and learn about neo-burlesque. It's open to the public, so if you're interested in going, please visit burlesquehall.com for more information.

So hopefully, there will be a TOR in 2012. I'll let you know when I hear anything.