Toronto’s burlesque scene is blowing up! The Canadian cultural hub has always been known for producing great art and its contributions to the burly world are certainly no exception. Some of the best performers that I saw at the Great Burlesque Exposition back in March hailed from Toronto and I was especially taken with St. Stella, who performed an amazing routine with James and the Giant Pasty at the Rhinestone Revue, the weekend’s opening show.

What set Stella apart for me was her obvious dance experience. While many burlesque performers have dance backgrounds, I’d never seen a performer incorporate classical dance moves so seamlessly into a burlesque routine. It gave her routine a sense of sophistication and grace that set it apart from anything else in the show that night.

I caught up with Stella for an interview about her experience, influences, the Toronto scene and her upcoming show Meet Me Under the Bleachers. She was kind enough to take time out of her busy schedule to chat with me and she even offered some advice to burlesque performers just getting started.

Ladies and gentlemen, I’m proud to present the lovely St. Stella. Enjoy!
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