Showstopper Lilly aims for burlesque crown

A NORTHSIDE burlesque dancer is hoping to woo the judges with a sassy and eye-catching performance in a prestigious competition being held in Dublin this weekend.

Lilly DeValle (25), from Malahide, one of country’s most popular neo burlesque performers, is aiming to dance her way to the Miss Burlesque Ireland title when she takes to the stage at the Button Factory in Temple Bar this Saturday, July 19.

Lilly, who has been performing burlesque since 2009, was a founding member of the highly acclaimed LoveCats troupe, and is now part of Dublin’s best-loved neo-burlesque duet, Siamese Scream.

Lilly’s acts are well known on the scene for being dark, innovative and even poignant. Being one of the leaders of the gothic neo-burlesque movement, Lilly and her stage partner, Lucy Rhinehart, deviate from the classic

‘feathers and glitter’ approach, creating highly narrative, Avant grade acts.

In recent years, Lilly has received many accolades including winning Best Solo in the Dublin 2012 Burlesque Festival and being invited to perform at the 2013 London International Burlesque Festival. She said her greatest achievement in burlesque was co-producing and co-writing

‘The Sanatorium’.

“This highly successful show played for a sold-out run in Smock Alley Theatre and starred Dublin’s best-loved talent from the world of burlesque, drag and cabaret,

? Lilly told Northside People.

“I am really excited to be performing in the Miss Burlesque Ireland show.

“However, it will be bittersweet as this will be my last time taking to the Dublin stage before I emigrate to Canada in September. I am planning to go out with a bang.

?

Lilly said that most of all, she is looking forward to the wonderful backstage craic with her fellow contestants.

“I strongly believe that the competition element of the upcoming show is secondary, as it should be seen as a showcase for the amazing burlesque talent we have in Ireland,

? she added.

An unforgettable night of glitz and glamour is promised. Run in conjunction with Miss Burlesque Australia, the competition is being brought to these shores by ‘Azaria Starfire’, aka Claire Anne Tobin, after she won the Miss Burlesque Adelaide and Miss Fantastic titles at the Miss Burlesque Australia Grand Finals in Sydney 2012.

The Miss Burlesque Ireland title will be awarded to the best overall performer across a range of activities including classic, neo and unique interpretation of burlesque. The judging panel comprises professional and award winning performers, burlesque and cabaret producers, and dance instructors.

For the 11 competitors it is not only an opportunity to challenge themselves to create three showstopping acts, but to network with performers and producers, and to make their contribution to a positive and supportive burlesque community. Prepare for glitter and sparkle overload!