Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Angelica Lavalier. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Angelica , we’re so appreciative of you taking the time to share your nuggets of wisdom with our community. One of the topics we think is most important for folks looking to level up their lives is building up their self-confidence and self-esteem. Can you share how you developed your confidence?
For me confidence and self esteem are things that have really developed over time. I’ve reached a point in my life where other people’s opinions of me aren’t as important as my own. Of course there are times I still don’t feel as sure of myself, but I find that being true to who I am and pursuing what makes me happy fills me with the confidence to live my life how I choose.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I’m a New York City based burlesque performer and instructor. I’ve been performing for the past 8 years and have had the pleasure of appearing on stages throughout the US and as far away as London.
I love that burlesque provides performers the opportunity to bring their unique, creative vision to life. We really are costumes designers, choreographers, marketing mavens, stylists and everything creative all rolled into one!
As a long time fan of burlesque, I was initially attracted to the gorgeous costumes. Creating my own sparkly, extravagant ensembles for the stage is still one of my favorite aspects of the art form.
I had the idea to start a series of burlesque classes in Staten Island, NY. I’m thrilled to say the “Champagne and Shimmy” classes have been a success! I was able to bring something unique to my area and introduce burlesque to a new fan base. I hold group classes, private classes and even bachelorette parties! It’s always exciting to see students get on stage for the first time and debut an act they’ve been working on for months!
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Keeping a positive attitude, even when things aren’t going my way has helped me so much! Sometimes you get the gig and sometimes you don’t. Being able to accept that and keep going is so important!
Don’t let fear prevent you from trying new things! You never know what exciting opportunities lay ahead of you if you never try!
Try not to compare yourself to others, which is definitely easier said than done. We’re each traveling our on path and doing things at a pace that works for us. Remember that everything happens when it’s supposed to!
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
I always love to connect with fellow Burlesque entertainers from all over! I always try to perform when I travel, so it’s helpful to have connections in other cities. I’m also interested in continuously building relationships with potential students and people with an interest in Burlesque!
I can be contacted via Instagram @angelicalavalier
or
@champagneandshimmy
Or email
[email protected]
Contact Info:
Image Credits
House Indulgence/Steward Noack
Kajsa Daphne with NY Pinup Club
Fifi Dubois
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.