An Interview with Burlesque Star Cherie Bebe
An Interview with
Burlesque Star Cherie Bebe
Here at Belle Privé, we've long been a lover of Burlesque and there's no performer more lovely or beautiful than Cherie Bebé. I first met Cherie a few years ago when I saw her perform and since then, we have worked together numerous times. Cherie is not only a successful Burlesque Producer and Performer but also an accomplished actress having appeared in series such as Hollyoaks amongst others. I caught up with Cherie to chat Dita von Teese, Playboy, Red Lipstick and Live Theatre....
What’s your biggest ambition in life?
I would love to perform in Paris. I have been there quite a few times visiting, for holidays and once I was flown over for an acting job but I am yet to perform burlesque there. Paris has some of the most stunning venues and it’s the home of the iconic Folie Bergere, Moulin Rouge and Crazy Horse.
Another ambition I had was to meet Dita Von Teese. She has been a big inspiration to me and I was lucky enough to finally meet her recently and watch her perform to an audience of only 100 people. She is the epitome of glamour and class and to see her perform so close was a dream come true. Dita really is the Queen of burlesque. If a performer can afford to see her live, I would say book a ticket to one of her shows in a heart beat, It’s worth every penny.
What’s your top beauty tip?
Always look after your skin, especially your face. It’s the one part of our body that is constantly exposed to all the elements outside. A good moisturiser is key and making sure to have a good routine for removing makeup.
Tell us an interesting fact about you?
My mother was a playboy bunny in the 1980’s when the Playboy brand had a franchise in the UK and a club in Manchester; my Nanna was a singer around the UK under the stage name Jackie Nelson so I guess performing has always been in my blood.
What do you always carry with you?
A red lipstick, even if I’m not performing I may end up at a meeting or going to an event at the last minute and a red lipstick can instantly transform a day look to evening; perfume as it’s a must have in any hand bag and I like to make sure I have a good book as I’m always travelling to and from various auditions, jobs and shows.
Where do you find your inspiration for your burlesque routines?
Music is my number one inspiration. I think there is a universal connection with music and selecting the right track really can make an act. I have always had a love for films, especially the golden age of Hollywood which was another reason that led me to becoming a burlesque artiste. I also try and see as much live performances as I can when I’m not performing myself. This year I have probably watched more live theatre than anything else and there have been a number of shows that have really been inspiring to watch including Dita Von Teese - The Art Of The Teese, Wise Children, Richard III, All About Eve, The Producers and Ian McKellen On Stage. I feel being authentic and original is key to any burlesque routine. Being a trained actress I was always taught to find the truth in a scene and it’s the same with burlesque, I think you need to have a truthfulness to your performance or any art form for that matter.
You can catch Cherie at her shows at Matt and Phreds and also the Richmond Tea Rooms in Manchester.
You can also find Cherie on social media here: facebook and instagram.
