The thing I enjoyed most about working on my new book STRIP/TEASE was reaching out and working with incredible humans from all over the world, like Minneapolis based burlesque performer Dahlia Dulce. Known as the “Hot Tamale of the Twin Cities”, not only is she the current reigning Princess of the Viva Las Vegas Rockabilly Weekender and the International Latin and Hispanic Burlesque Festival, Dahlia Dulce is also the co-founder of Black Hearts Burlesque – the longest-running queer burlesque show in Minneapolis – and co-creator of Dapper Fella Products, a gender-neutral line of luxury self-care and burlesque merchandise.
Dahlia Dulce is just one of the 68 performers featured in STRIP/TEASE – which is now available to purchase via my online store. Want to know more about Dahlia Dulce? Read on…
Dahlia Dulce
Describe your burlesque persona in exactly 5 words: Latina (yes, I use it as an adjective), Powerhouse, Fun, Spicy, Vibrant
Tell us about your best ever burlesque moment. What happened? Who was there? There are so many! My most recent would be performing in the Miss Viva Las Vegas competition this past year. I won 1st runner up with that performance on the huge beautiful stage at The Orleans in Las Vegas. There was a moment that I locked eyes with Marinka, an incredible legend in our burlesque scene. While I teased my glove off, I kept my eyes locked with hers for several seconds, which can feel like an eternity on stage. It was so powerful and something I will never forget! I’m smiling now just writing about it!
Name three things that you always carry with you: Caudalie Beauty Elixir (facial mist), Red Lip Grip (Valor) by Sauvecita, Herbal tea or Matcha
What inspired your burlesque journey? When I saw Foxy Tan and The Wam Bam Thank you Ma’ams back in 2009, I knew burlesque was for me. At the time, I had been a connoisseur of sorts, going to every burlesque show I could at that time. There weren’t many performers of color yet here in MN, so seeing their number was life changing. They did Foxy Lady, and it’s still one of my favorites today.
Who would play you in a movie of your life? J-Lo or Christian Serratos (playing Selena in the new Netflix series.) I have high standards…
What’s the most interesting thing about you that the internet doesn’t know about you yet? I am a super nerd, I read a lot of fantasy and my ultimate leisure that I never seem to have time for anymore is playing an epic RPG on my PS4.
Tell us about your shoot experience with Tigz! Tigz was so fun to shoot with. She had constructive feedback for the image she wanted to capture, but it felt easy and natural to shoot with her. I wanted to hang out with her post-shoot, because it didn’t feel like a job.
What song gets you on the dancefloor? It doesn’t take much, anything from Salsa to hip hop (especially 90’s) and I’m out there dancing! Another well-kept secret is that I love 80’s music. Put on some Depeche Mode, New Order, Tears for Fears etc…. and you’ve got me.
Best achievement or moment that you’re most proud of in your career? Co-Founding Black Hearts Burlesque in Minneapolis is my most proud achievement! It is the longest-running show in MN (since 2010) and we happen to be weekly and super queer! Elektra Cute and I actually started BHB because we felt we didn’t see enough diversity on stage showcasing POC, gender-fluidity, and body positivity talent. Our show had drag, singing, burlesque, aerial arts, etc. and it was all from a diverse cast, which was unheard of in MN at the time. We also really focused on creating a safe space for so many people to enjoy the show and dance after. I’ve heard from many attendees of the original BHB that was something they coveted the most. Our show is still going strong, sold out most Friday nights.
I’m also the reigning Princess of Miss Viva Las Vegas and The International Latin and Hispanic Festival. Those are also amazing moments in my career.
What is your top striptease tip? It’s not about you, it’s about your audience. Your audience doesn’t know that you’ve had a terrible day, or you’re exhausted. Nor should they need to know unless that’s what you are intentionally pushing through to them. They want you to succeed on stage, and they want to love you. They don’t care if you forgot your eyelashes, or your costume isn’t as sparkly as the person before you. They just want you to connect with them. Remembering that always helps me push through some of my hardest days, and some of my most nerve-wracking experiences.
If you could be a model for any brand, which brand would it be and why? This is a tough one… I don’t know if I can just choose one! Vixen by Micheline Pitt, Dottie’s Delight, Sauvecita and Honey Birdette to name a few. I think you get my general vibe though.
What will your autobiography be called? What Makes her Dahlia Dulce- A Spotlight on The Burlesque Career of the Leggy Latina
What exciting project are you working on right now? I have a few. I’ll be producing a fundraiser for The Noire Pageant at the end of February. I’ll be featuring in the Panama Burlesque festival, and I’m looking toward picking up the mantel for the International Latin and Hispanic Burlesque Festival.
Favourite burlesque festival/show to perform at? I’m biased… The Minneapolis Burlesque Festival is my favorite for so many reasons. But out of state, my top would have to be Freezing Tassels Burlesque Festival in Anchorage. Those producers make every performer feel special and know how to make a great show and community throughout the weekend!
Purchase your copy of STRIP | TEASE now!
Click here to get your hands on signed copies from Tigz, or take advantage of cheaper postage throughout North America from Working Class Publishing .
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