Big Hips, Big Dreams

I Like Being Alone...

2012-03-12T23:31:00.001-04:00

not as often as I am though.

I've become really good at flying solo in all sorts of ways. I consciously go through phases of avoiding friends, family, strangers, whomever. I have grown up in the shadow of a mother who is the same. She shops alone, gets her nails done alone, runs her own business, sits at the kitchen table working alone, etc..This is how we show how "strong" and independent we are. It's malarkey.

The reality is I get lonely. I'm incredibly sensitive compared to most of my family. Although, my real Dad's side in Romania cries as easily and as often as I do. That was the most amazing thing to find out when I finally got to meet them in 2006. We are incredibly strong in character but emotionally we are sissies ha!

I rarely call friends when I'm upset to avoid appearing needy. I feel like I have to stay in this mold of the tough, independent in the big city on her own. What I find interesting about this, having had tear filled conversations with one of my besties, is that my married friends with kids end up neglecting their single friends out of a fear of calling with "boring mom problems". We're all so sadly pathetic. The one thing we need to do is pick up the damn phone no matter the reason and just call. Even if it's only to let someone know you're crying. I think this was my problem on Sunday.

March 11, 2008 my Dad passed away. I'm not over it and think about it more often than anyone else does I'm sure. Anyway, Sunday marked 4 years. Every year since, I try to have a "normal" day (I'm not sure why) and it ends up awful and emotionally exhausting. Somehow my alarm was turned off (perhaps in my sleep??), I woke up late, therefore getting to work much later than I should have. I was sorta okay until I walked out of my building. It was like suddenly, with people around my tears felt like free flowing. I got to work and couldn't control myself. I had a great conversation with my manager and left for the day. I honestly think my insides just gave up and forced me to show how vulnerable I was feeling. I had to cry and talk to someone even if it was only for 10mins, it helped more than she probably knows. She had suffered her own loss in January and we were able to share a much needed moment.

I left and walked up to Central Park and sat for a bit. I was feeling anxious so I didn't stay for too long instead opted for more walking. Went to Columbus Circle, then back down Broadway into Times Square. By that time I had texted a friend of mine who I know always has nice Sundays out brunching and chatting with all sorts of people. I invited myself to crash his party and it was the best I could have done. I was out until 9p and couldn't have had better company in such short notice.

It's sad that I hesitated to reach out to someone, but I'm so happy I clicked send.

"All you need is love to ease your mind."
~Loretta Lynn~

I hope you have a wonderful week. The weather has been making the days much easier to get through...

Ciao for now,

TT

Tax Money Bitches!

2012-03-05T23:21:00.002-05:00

So I'm not getting anything TOO exciting back but these days a little bit goes a long way for me!
I'm trying to figure out how to spend some of the money on myself (whatever's left over after some late bills are paid, oopsies!) in the likes of improv classes, belly dancing, tap or a few things at the School of Burlesque or even a tattoo. Oh and some new materials are definitely on the list. I have a dope idea for a costume, would be amazing if I could execute it!

I've been dying for dance classes. I should have added swing to that list because I've got the itch for it also. Some friends offered up lessons but I definitely excel and feel less self-conscious when I set out and do things on my own surrounded by strangers. I'm obviously a product of doing everything alone!

Some exciting news - Meat My Friends will be back!! Saturday, March 24th, new cast, new hilarity, new talents at Angels & Kings. I can't wait to see this show! What's also exciting is that I have performers interested in later dates. I hope the venue & I can agree on some future nights so I can get the ball rolling!

Although I love watching all my performers, I am totally honored to be hosting Jay Miller & Casey Jost. Two super talented guys I know from Staten Island. What they have in store, I'm not gonna share but it's definitely not to be missed!

Here's one of my fave clips of them from Jay's talk show.

Stole it from Jay's Youtube channel. Stop by and check out more!

Tuesday with Tassels has been a bit lame-o. Between my two day jobs, I'll be working at least 14 days in a row. This shit better be worth it!!
Hope you guys have a great week. I for one am really looking forward to Spring. I know winter wasn't bad at all but I just want my puffy coat to get packed away again. Over it!

Thanks for stopping by! If you haven't yet, please swing by my "fan" page (I don't I've ever said that) and give a like, ya know, if you like me! :) Also if you like filthy talk and bad jokes, go ahead and follow me on Twitter!

Ciao for now,

TT

PS: That guy I mentioned last week, well I shot him a FB message because I was too chicken to ask around for his number, but I gave him mine and am still tapping my fingers on the table. HA! Keeping the faith though, we'll see what happens! The lower expectation, the bigger the surprise...

Tunnel Vision

2012-02-28T00:13:00.001-05:00

The number one thing I am SO grateful for after having moved to NYC is how much I enjoy meeting new people and learning more about them. I am endlessly fascinated and proud of the human race as a whole, with each and every one of their background stories, what they do for a living and what they still aspire to accomplish. I've always liked people but I'm really starting to LOVE and appreciate them more and more!

I knew in becoming a burlesque performer I would face some adversity. It's inevitable and I've accepted it. What I am totally over though, are people using a mere percentage of info about me to make quick assumptions. I felt like discussing the issue after a comment left under my BexLife Interview/Chat Session. She didn't quite understand why a woman who takes off her clothing is apt to give young girls advice. What I don't quite understand is how people (in this case women) are still, in 2012, so judgmental and close minded when it comes to someone from a different walk of life. This woman doesn't know anything more about me and didn't seem curious either. Perhaps she would have considered that I'm an educated, former teacher and cheerleading coach, therefore having lots of experience working with young, impressionable girls. I bit my tongue and replied in a very cheeky manner. No one deserves to get me on edge! My point being is that part of our evolving as confident, independent women (or men) should include freeing ourselves from judgement. In this case particularly, I think a little self-reflection could have gone a long way.

That said, I had a really fun week!!! Last Tuesday with Tassels, I mentioned I was going on the radio show Jackie's Joke Hunt with Jackie "The Jokeman" Martling. I ended up having a blast and am looking forward to getting back there because Jackie said I will be. Woot!! I feel like I could learn tons from him. I'm not much of a joke writer, in fact I'm really bad it but getting to chat freely and feel so uncensored is incomparable!
Saturday night, I treated myself to Swing 46 for Eddie Clendening's birthday celebration. Got to watch bands straight off Broadway from Buddy-The Buddy Holly Story & The Million Dollar Quartet. Couldn't have skipped watching the Oscars (DVRed em though!) for anything better. Made some new friends, new business is churning up, and enjoyed a glass of red. Hangin with this same crew next Saturday at The Grand Victory in Williamsburg. Come!! I also hope to run into a guy I met on Sunday. If not, I plan on reaching out to him. Uh oh. Ha!

Have a great week, the weather has been pretty fantastic with a few shitty days in between, but overall it's been a stellar "winter". Just the way I like it! Thanks for stopping by...

Ciao for now,

TT

THIS WEEK RULES!

2012-02-20T22:50:00.000-05:00

On Saturday, I did a quick on camera interview with my old friend Bex Life! I am scared of camera stuff hence my avoidance of vlogging! Mainly concerned about my voice and obviously how I look, but it was quick and fun and will be posted on Friday, I believe as the intro to her new self-esteem series. Find her on Facebook, Twitter and her website to see when she decides to share it. I can't wait! Oh yeah, and subscribe to her ultra awesome YouTube page. It's where the magic happens.

Then on Tuesday (TODAY) I will be joining Jackie "The Joke Man" Martling on his radio show Jackie's Joke Hunt! Tune in at 7pm: Howard 101 on Sirius/XM radio...HOLY SHIT!! I am so amped. God only knows what we'll be chatting about but it's gonna be a blast. The other guest is a comedian/ventriloquist. When Jackie asked if I was available this day, I said I couldn't pass up meeting him and my first ventriloquist on the same day. Score!! I already warned my mom saying I'm probably gonna curse just be prepared. She went on to educate me on how the F-word doesn't belong anywhere near a woman's mouth. I told her she should probably avoid coming to a show at all costs then. Oopsies, your daughter's mouth is that of a whore!

Had a nice quick visit to NJ this past weekend. Visited with some old friends, made some bad decisions, and also did the cinnamon challenge. It was awful but I was laughing SO hard. My friends rule and sorta snapped me out of my funk. I wrote a post earlier in the week intended for today but it can be saved for a rainy Tues. My PMS was out of control for a couple of days and I could not stop being sad and crying over him. Whatevs. Today was much better and I don't feel the need to share. Writing it out, at least helped me get it off my chest! Phew.

TONIGHT/TUESDAY: THE PINK ROOM
Come visit me at the door for Francine's one year anniversary show!

FRIDAY: IT REALLY TIED THE ROOM TOGETHER
Kittening for my fave girls The Sticky Situation at their Big Lebowski Tribute show. So excited to work with them again. They are great company and put on hilarious shows!

I have a super busy 7 days straight of work, all 3 jobs! I really need to do laundry. I need to buy some red fringe to compliment the ultra amazing shimmy belt I got on super sale from Pat Field's. I need to clean my apt. And I need to chill the fuck out and get organized. I'm already tired but SO excited for the days to come.

OH! By the way, Meat My Friends will be back March 24th at Angels & Kings. Pumped. New cast, New time, New adventures!

Ok, go have yourself a great week - sending you positive vibes!

Ciao for now,

TT

TwT > Vday

2012-02-14T00:44:00.000-05:00

Well, well, well...looky here. Tuesday with Tassels has been overshadowed by Valentine's Day. Psshh, yeah right!

I haven't had a Valentine that wasn't my mother since 6th grade. No lie. Aside from dating a very small handful of guys throughout the years, I've been boyfriend free since then. RED FLAG!? I know, right. I'm not sure if I should admit this or not. Maybe if and when I have a boyfriend I'll care more about Valentine's day but for now I appreciate the family & friends that give me love on the daily! I usually send V-day cards to my people but didn't get around to it this year. Boooo to me!!

So I wrapped up the first Manhattan showing of Meat My Friends. I feel confident that performers, audience members, and the venue were all happy with the night's results! I had a blast and couldn't be happier. We had burlesque - 4 very different performers & acts, some shtick by Todd & Sarah Palin, a musician sang one of my fave songs ever "You Send Me" and a magician that made audience members dry heave. Um, yeah, you missed WAY out! Cannot wait to see pictures & video via Marisol! Although I'm relishing in the fact that I've produced a show in NYC, I'm already trying to figure out how to get the next one going!

Sunday night I watched the Grammys and was absolutely in love with all the young talent being honored - whether they won or not. What I got over real quickly is everyone's posts about how the Grammys suck and that it doesn't showcase real music, pop music is garbage etc..etc...if you know anything about the music industry, or entertainment at all then you would appreciate the talent showcased and why certain albums/artists were nominated. If you're in your 30s and hate Katy Perry, good, because she's not here for you. She's here for a young audience who happens to adore her. Think Nicki Minaj is crazy? She is, but she sold a hell of a lot of albums because there are millions of people that beg to differ and love to press play and enjoy her album (I am one of those millions. Huge fan of Pink Friday and a friend of mine was even on the album! Biggups to DJ JohnB! werk.). Plain and simple: if you didn't like the show, why did you watch it just to share how miserable you felt about it? Corny. Get a life and perhaps a new remote so you can figure out how to change the channel next year. Thanks byeee!

Last night I took myself on a date to this month's The Pussy Scratching Fox Show. I love Stanqui and the crew he manages to round up. The set list was off the chain! The pole dancer probably stole the show. She moved to a gorgeous, Billie Holiday (I believe) song. I couldn't keep my eyes off of her. So gorgeous, not sleazy. Swooooon!

Today, I am working at Sephora all day. I hope you get to have a lovely Valentine's Day whether single, married, dating, poly, a loner, or anything in between. Everyday should be a good day, but every now and then an extra special one doesn't hurt!

Thank you SO much to everyone who made it out to Meat My Friends, those interested in upcoming shows, and those of you far away that can only read about it here. I'm gonna keep rowing my boat so keep reading to find out where I go!!

Ciao for now,
TT

PS: I'm gonna be on the radio next week. Check out my Facebook to find out with who!!

Bubbling Over...

2012-02-07T08:26:00.001-05:00

WITH EXCITEMENT!

Until Friday, I was making myself sick (and break out) because I was so nervous going over and over in my head how the night of Meat My Friends will pan out. Well ya know what? After a SUPER fun time at Rodeo Bar on Friday night for Rock and Roll Roadshow, that has all gone out the window. There is so much goodness in and around me that I am being confident and ready to go full steam ahead. For the next week anyway HA!
Note: When I said goodness IN me, I wasn't being dirty. That's still missing but let's see what happens Saturday night *wink

On Sunday I started reading Goldie Hawn's autobiography: A Lotus Grows in the Mud. I am a huge fan of autobiographies. I unintentionally draw inspiration from people more than anything or any place in the world. I love hearing their stories even of the simplest of moments. I bought this years ago on super discount and never got around to it. I'm forcing myself now. In the past few months I've really been studying up on variety shows of the past with strong lead women. Carol Burnett, Cher, & Goldie seem to be occupying my thoughts more than most things right now. I'm feeling empowered.

I worked throughout the weekend then Sunday night - sans interest in the Superbowl - took myself to see Fooling Around with Casey Jost at The People's Improv Theater. Casey and I have lots of mutual friends but we've never met so I was looking forward to it. A musician/actor/comedian friend of mine, the talented Brian Bonz, was also part of the show! I love seeing sketch comedy because it's something I have so much interest in but a huge fear of actually pursuing. The show is part sketches, part audio visual, part talk show/interview - SO much fun. Am definitely gonna be in touch with these guys. Would love to have them in a Meat My Friends show! Also Jackie Hoffman was there watching and I love her. Bonus!

Monday was amazing. My mom and & grandma came to visit me from NJ - mainly because I had forgotten my iPod there on my last visit and needed it stat. We had a great lunch here at my place, chatted and that was it! Earlier in the morning, my first guest blogger post for Pinup Girl Clothing went up! You can read it here on their Tumblr blog. There will be more down the road too!

On Thursday, there was one of those "sorry we missed you" notices in my mailbox. I wasn't sure what package and from who it would be but it turned out to be so much more than I imagined! My dear friends at Orchard Corset have out done themselves again. Long ago they offered me some coupon code stubs to share with friends and show goers...hearing about my new productions coming up they wanted to make new ones. Little did I know they would be surprising me with sexy goodies too!! Thanks to their generosity I feel the need to add another Fun Bag raffle to the mix for Meat My Friends! I wonder what piece(s) to include?!

Well, next week's post will be after the Manhattan debut of Meat My Friends. Fingers crossed all goes well, the audience, performers, and venue is happy. My stomach is turning, for good reason, it will truly be a dream come true night. I think I'll be crying tears of gratitude even if I have to duck into a bathroom for a minute to collect myself. I hope some of you can make it out and if not this time, I hope there is a regular show on the way!!

Thank you so much for stopping by and new readers welcome to my blog!! See you next week...

Ciao for now,
TT

PS: Here's all the info for Saturday night - hope to see some of your fugly faces <3

MEAT MY FRIENDS: A PRE-VALENTINE'S DAY SHOW

Tina Tassels presents:
MEAT MY FRIENDS – A PRE-VALENTINE’S DAY SHOW
“Break my heart, I’ll break your face” –The Sirs
https://www.facebook.com/TheSirs
Sadly they won't be able to play but we'll be spinnin their tunes!

Making its Manhattan debut, Meat My Friends is a variety show aimed to satiate your live entertainment appetite with burlesque, music, comedy and everything in between. Showcasing some of NY’s finest, come celebrate love or a lack thereof with us!

Evelyn Vinyl
http://evelynvinyl.com/

Calamity Chang
http://www.calamitychang.com/

Kiki Valentine
http://www.sundayshownyc.com/

Dottie Dynamo
https://www.facebook.com/dottiedynamo

Matthew Holtzclaw
http://www.matthewholtzclaw.com/

Paul Schalda of Paul & the Tall Trees
https://www.facebook.com/PaulSchaldaAndTheTallTrees

Foul Language, Performances, & Hosting: Tina Tassels
http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Tina-Tassels-Page/158207487545461

Stage Kitten & GoGo Girl: Charlie Gunn
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100002002213596

AND Moz Foto is gonna be in the house snappin pictures of you and your sweetheart(s)! We don't discriminate as to how many you have!
https://www.facebook.com/mozfotostudios

DJ Mr. Nice Guy will be workin the decks for us! Join the post-show dance party!

Enter to win Tina's Fun Bags - raffles jerk! – with some goods to help your Valentine’s Day get a little hotter!

$10 to our Door Girl: Coco Masala
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100002520990225

Door opens at 7:30pm, Show starts at 8:30
21+ so don't bring your kids!

*Don't be shy, dress to impress - even if only for yourself!*

DRINK SPECIALS JUST FOR THE SHOW!

My Week Without Marilyn

2012-01-30T23:49:00.000-05:00

Go see that movie. Well the real one, not my rip off titled one.
It was brilliant. If you've ever wanted to be an actor, this is the type of movie that keeps you wanting it. By the end of the film it wasn't about Marilyn, in fact there was a point where I had forgotten it was about her at all. The characters were so engaging that I was trying hard to make eye contact with them. I went alone and while totes PMSing. Needless to say I cried several times because I completely empathized with M. Terrified of judgement. It's the biggest roadblock you can build for yourself and the hardest one to get over!

I'm getting so anxious with Meat My Friends Manhattan debut rolling around in less than 2 weeks. I have lots of friends coming and this gets me so worked up. My nerves get the best of me and I never say what I planned and never perform the way I want to. It's so irritating. I love having them there. I am grateful beyond words every time one sends me a message or calls to say "I'm coming to your show." I am feeling more confident as a host, and am actually writing things down as a loose script. I like this. In fact I prefer it and then being able to chit chat & improvise is an added bonus. I just want everyone to enjoy themselves and feel like their time & $10 (and then some for drinks & tips & raffles if you please!) were worth it. I have such a talented group of people coming together and I am so honored to be hosting them. Why is having your dream come true so hard to accept? It's terrifying!

I'm having a hard time concentrating on Friday's Rockabilly Burlesque show at Rodeo Bar. Three acts, live band, and music that is so overwhelmingly fast for me. I am not comfortable shaking all around. Damn, I must be in a bad mood (even though I've felt fine?). I'm being so down. It's anxiety. The usual really. Like most people I retreat and it's exactly what I'm doing. I'm procrastinating and making excuses for not being proactive. So corny *slaps self across both cheeks*

I think it's bedtime. I haven't slept much since Friday night. Took a quick trip to NJ for a friend's shower, which was SO nice to see my bffs I hadn't in awhile. Then came back for my monthly gig as Franny Fluffer's The Pink Room, door girl. I love working the door! THEN had to sleep only a few hours before having work until close time, THEN picking up someone's shift for the following morning and now here I am. Exhausted with watery eyes. My goal is bed by midnight and it's defiinitely gonna happen! Woohooo!

Thanks again for stopping by, hope to see you at a show and if I do please say hello, I don't bite unless you pay me to!

Ciao for now,
TT

You Got the Write Stuff

2012-01-24T00:00:00.002-05:00

So cheesy I know! Get over it.

Saturday night wrapped up another great Rockabilly festival out in Long Island. I had the absolute pleasure of hosting a pinup contest, performing and then hosting the burlesque portion of the night also. There were 4 rockin bands, swing dancing lessons and a contest, vendors, and a super great crowd. The snow didn't hold anyone back, it was an impressive turnout! The people are so kind to us and gave us great feedback. A show goer came up to me asking, "Are you all professionals?" and I jokingly replied "We try to be!" he simply said "Excellent." and walked away. So cool.

Performing outside of the city is an entirely different experience. You travel to a town that has only a percentage of the entertainment options that the saturated venues of NYC have, so everyone is much more appreciative. Not that NYC crowds aren't great, but I think people become blase having so many opportunities to view different types of live shows. Sad but true. Wake up people, you live in the greatest city in the world!

Well I've been focused on writing more content for Pinup Girl Clothing's website. So far I've gotten great feedback for what I've submitted and I believe it will be posted beginning in February! Holy cow! I also submitted my interview materials to Pin Up Perfection Magazine. My first interview yet. My head is spinning with excitement.

So I finally posted a new video to youtube. I actually hate doing it but I think it's a good idea. I feel SO self conscious on video hence vlogging being a goal for 2012. I don't mind pictures, in fact I enjoy them. I was taught years ago by my father how important they are and I agree with him 100%. The video isn't great either but whatevs. I hope my friends far away enjoy it at least! Here it is:

Yikes!

Keep your eyes peeled on my Facebook and Twitter for updates about when my interview, and writes ups are posted. My rehearsals are now geared towards a new rockabilly show by Minnie D'Moocha at Rodeo bar Friday, February 3rd and obviously Meat My Friends Saturday, February 11th. For Meat My Friends, I've also been writing content to help guide the show. I can' freakin wait!

Have a great week, from my tassels to yours...

Ciao for now,
TT

The Stars Are Doin' Some Aligning

2012-01-17T01:08:00.000-05:00

Within 48hrs I got offered an interview (MY FIRST EVER!) with Pin Up Perfection Magazine and asked to be a contributing writer for one of the very few websites I follow: Pinup Girl Clothing. WHAT?!

I'm pissing my pants!
Well not really, because that would be time wasted cleaning up the mess while I should be busy behind the computer getting to werk! I have been steadily brainstorming, writing, reaching out to fans & friends alike for topic suggestions and looking for inspiration. I have so much stimulation that I don't even know where to start!

The interview process is really interesting. I'm enjoying it so far until the most current question. I'm getting a little nervous about my answer. I keep wondering if I will be offensive to anyone. If my answer is not an honest and natural one though, I will be the first to call myself a hypocrite for not being confident and sure about how I feel. That's what I would tell you to do! I have to get used to the idea that there will always be someone left unhappy even if for the dumbest reason ever!

Ahhh - this is really exciting!
Man, I had a fun week of catching up with friends. It had been so long that I decided to say fuck it, and spend a few extra dollars on dinner and drinks. It's always worth every penny.

THIS Saturday is Rockabilly Rave 3 and after that I've got nothing schedule until early February. I'm excited about the Meat My Friends buzz and I'm confident we're gonna have a sick turn out at Angels & Kings. My cast is pumped up and the set list is taking shape. A new flyer to celebrate is coming soon!

So reader, if you haven't seen any of my posts on facebook or Twitter, as I mentioned above I've been reaching out my friends, family, & fans for some guidance. Here's the post, any help would be greatly appreciated!

ATTENTION FRIENDS, FAMILY, FANS & FUCK FACES ALIKE!
I'm asking for your help during my brainstorming session - what sorts of topics would you like to read about from a Plus Size Pinup's point of view (read: MY pov)? Body issues, Pop Culture, Current Events, Exercise, Diet, Choosing the right dress/clothing, Dating...??

Lay it on me!
Prefer to be discreet? Email TinaTassels@gmail.com ♥ Look forward to hearing from you!

Thanks for stopping by for another installment of Tuesday with Tassels!
Have a great week - see some of you soon.

Ciao for now,
TT

PS: New pictures were posted to my Tina Tassels Page from my shoot with Moz Foto. Check em out!

It Was That Kind of Week...

2012-01-10T00:00:00.004-05:00

One of wearing stockings on stage. No bare legs. 2 shows, 4 costumes, all with fishnets. You can ask why, but I'm not really sure! Just wasn't into my thighs this week. It's so stupid because fishnet stockings do NOTHING for support or shape. I just felt better with them on...

Recap: Wednesday night I got to perform at Rodeo Bar for the first time! I love that bar/restaurant/staff/everything and you should too! Minnie D'Moocha hosts a monthly show Rockabilly Burlesque there with a live band and we had a blast! The turn out was a little small which in my opinion is because people are recovering from the holidays AND it was our first real cold, windy day. New Yorkers take cover in the winter and I can't pretend that I don't either!
Alas, I decided to challenge myself by doing a fast song. From the very beginning of starting to perform I thought I'd be this high energy, comedic performer and I've found my home in slow sensual classic teasing acts. Who woulda thought?! Anyway, from the band's list I picked "Do You Love Me" by The Contours. Yes, the Dirty Dancing song. It was SO hard for me and I felt like a fool. I am in constant awe of performers who are on the go every second of the song. I tried my best to actually dance (because I can!) but I was so self-conscious, feeling like "a fat girl dancing around" that it really held me back. Well, it's over now! I had fun but I don't see such fast music happening again anytime soon ha!
The second song I did and am currently working on parlaying into a new act is "Sleepwalk" by Santo & Johnny!!

*sigh* I KNOW! It's so amazing. I died and went to live music/performing heaven. This kind of music is what I feel I belong in the middle of. I felt like a star afterward!

Next up was the return to Staten Island of MEAT MY FRIENDS - my own production that is slowly finding a regular home. It was a success. I got to host extreme talent in the likes of Calamity Chang and Minnie Tonka. I was SO nervous. They are both so accomplished and big names in NY and even the USA! I look up to them and can only hope they enjoyed themselves because I know Staten Island LOVED them! I have to give a huge thank you to Full Cup again. Their staff is just SO good to us! And the audience in SI kills it every time. Thank you times a million to Evelyn Vinyl, Dottie Dynamo and Nick Williams too! Having them around is always calming. Such a great night, I'm still high from it! Met some great people and I'm pretty sure another show is in the works there! I also realized only the next day that it was actually the first entire show I hosted on my own. SCORE! I feel like Long Island didn't count for some reason but I guess it did. Whatever! I'm excited! I can't think straight! haha

Now I'm gearing up for the Manhattan debut of Meat My Friends. THIS IS A HUGE DEAL FOR ME!
Find me on Facebook (in the left column you can click on the TT Page) where you can find all info and the invite! It's a variety show...to say the least! Mark your calendars: Saturday, February 11 at Angels & Kings, $10 8p Doors

This week I'm trying to focus on a new act, confirming my cast members, and getting to work on the night's events! To unwind a bit I will be catching up with my friend Colin Kane at his monthly show at Gotham Comedy Club. Get a ticket and meet me there Thursday night! A show called Unzipped is not to be missed in my book.

Hope your first days in 2012 are going well. If you had a week of wearing stockings (figuratively) too, then keep your chin up with me...we've got a lot of year to go. I can't freakin wait!

Ciao for now,
TT

PS: GO HERE TO CHECK OUT THE NEW PICS FROM MY PHOTO SHOOT WITH MOZ PHOTO STUDIOS!
Werk!

Let The Games Begin!

2012-01-02T23:49:00.001-05:00

I can't remember the last New Year's Eve I had without crying until now. Usually the clock strikes twelve; I kiss, hug, dance around for a few minutes and then always find the need to duck out of the crowd and shed some tears. I'm not sure it's only ever for one reason in particular, but its definitely always littered with loneliness sprinkled with fear then doused with some sort of alcohol, ya know, to really feel the burn. This year was not one of those years.

I walked onto stage with 2 other performers (Tansy & Pandora). We counted down the last minute until 2012, then joined the rest of the room in blowing horns, clinking glasses, and cheering on the Gods. I had no time to cry for I was filled with nothing but joy. The only tears that would have fallen would have been of incredible happiness, pride, and excitement for what still lies ahead. I could not believe I was performing in NYC on NYE. A dream I've had since forever...

It was my first show at the gorgeous (and incredibly welcoming) restaurant/venue Cercle Rouge. We would dance with a live band (led by the insanely talented Jesse Gelber of Gelber & Manning) and improvise as we went along. I was terrified. The entire night would be new to me. I also knew though, once I got the first of three sets done I would be supercharged! I went out there, gave it all I had, unzipped my new dress with every little ounce of goodness I had in my two fingers and basked in the elevated, a bove the crowd, middle of the room stage we had been given. Holy shit that felt so good - I think were my exact words.

The night went SO well. The audience was so kind to all of us performers and even thanked us for doing the show! I think this NYE sealed the deal that everything is gonna be alright. I couldn't have been happier going home (fyi: via subway instead of wasting money on a cab) fed and only a couple glasses of champagne deep!

The most hilarious thing I had realized after the last set was that I placed my pastie too high on my boob so that I hadn't been covering my right nipple at all. Oopsies! That's definitely a sign of a happy new year hahaha!

Now I prep for Rockabilly Burlesque and the return of Meat My Friends to Staten Island!! Have a great week and swing by a show if you can! Here's to another year of bitchin, moanin, and celebrating it all...

Ciao for now,
TT

2011: Over & Out.

2011-12-29T15:40:00.003-05:00

Well, I had written an entire post, went back to tweak it, and then accidentally erased the ENTIRE thing. That sucked. So here I am, back at the beginning!
My last Tuesday with Tassels fell short compared to what I wanted my year's end post to be. I really wanted to share a rambling list of 2011 memories and favorite things from food to places to beauty products. I'm so bummed that I can't even regurgitate my list. I'm gonna break it down more than before.

Here are some fave everythings from this year and years past. Some I recently discovered, others I've been loving for awhile but all of them I am currently obsessed with: Lancome Teint Idole Foundation, MAC Eyeshadow in Carbonized, Emporio Armani "She" perfume, Souen Union Square location, Pat Field's, MAC Gel Liner, Palladio angled liner brush, The New Girl with Zooey Deschanel, Korres Quercetin & Oak Anti-aging Eye Cream, Illamasqua Lipstick in Delirium, feta cheese, my new local coffee shop Goustaro, OPI Nail Polish in Dutch Tulips, Sorme brand Lipliner, watching Big Bang Theory with my new roommate, Klondike bars with dark chocolate shells, L'Oreal Voluminous Original formula mascara when I'm not getting Smashbox's Full Exposure, fish sticks, Pacifica Tuscan Blood Orange Body Butter, rum & cokes, Dr. Bronner's Peppermint wash, Matrix So Silver shampoo, Eggo waffles by influence of my grandmom, Gillette Mach 3 razors

Turning my can'ts into cans and dreams into plans. In 2012 I WILL: take some dance classes, go on more dates, visit my friends that live far away, have a belated apt warming party, produce shows in Manhattan, audition, video blog at least once, splurge on a pretty dance dress, get a full time job that I want, stop talking to the wrong person and more to possibly right people, be in a wedding as a groomsMAN (how cool right?!), sell some of my dads antiques, order new business cards, make an official website once things start taking off because I know they will, try online dating, makeout with my Latin Lover again, read my "to read" pile of books, sing more on stage, brainstorm more about my one woman show, send my friends more snail mail, do tourist-in-NY things, watch more movies, buy myself a macbook, talk on the phone more - i really avoid this out of laziness, go to more museums, be even more aware of my spending, go see the Statue of Liberty, and bake more from scratch.

This list is totally doable!
I suggest you make one for yourself - make it realistic and low pressure. A simple rule to keep is: if you don't like it, don't do it. This extends to everything in life. I am really looking forward to 2012, even though I believe everyday is a chance to start a new year, this NYE is special for me. I've had a wonderful year of love, loss, celebration, and break downs and I wouldn't trade any of it for anything. I am looking forward with wide eyes and high hopes and wish that you would be by my side while following your own dreams. We got this!

I'm happy to report I'll be performing in my FIRST EVER NYE SHOW! I can't freakin believe it! I already have a few awesome shows in January and have a few that are yet to be confirmed. I wanna see you and your bad self at a show if you can make it!

Saturday, NYE: Cercle Rouge, NYC - Second Seating - $155
Wednesday Jan 4: Rodeo Bar, NYC - Rockabilly Burlesque with a Live Band - NO cover
Saturday, Jan 7: Full Cup, Staten Island - Meat My Friends - $10
Saturday, Jan 21: Moose Lodge, Long Island - Rockabilly Rave 3 - $10

WISHING YOU A GRAND NEW YEAR'S EVE!!

BE SAFE, HAPPY, & SURROUNDED BY LOVE!

Ciao for now,

It's the End of the Year as We Know It!

2011-12-27T00:23:00.001-05:00

Like for most single young women, the holidays bring waves of loneliness. Whether it's the music, the "feeling of togetherness" (omg i'm so corny), being home, wanting to buy someone a gift, etc...it's at this time of year I wish more than ever I wasn't single. I feel so completely vulnerable that I barely want to leave the house. After the couple weeks of hoopla pass though, I usually snap out of it and have gotten my head back above the water. *Keeping my fingers crossed this day hurries the hell up!*

I have a gut feeling that 2012 is gonna be huge for me. I'm not jinxing it by sharing this, rather I'm treating it as a sort of mantra. If I believe it, it will happen!
I'm also terrified to report that at some point in the year I will try online dating. I'm not sure why, but I can say that it's probably my biggest fear. Not necessarily online dating but dating in general and more so the being taken seriously as a possible lady friend part is hard to swallow. After so many burns you start to believe why the fires are spreading. Ugh, we'll see what happens!

I'm vigorously job searching. I'm getting to the point of frustration that is effecting my performance. Strolling in a few minutes late, doing half ass work, just not really having any pride in what I'm doing. If you or anyone you know is looking for some marketing/production help - let me know! It would be highly appreciated. I'd prefer something full-time but long term project would be fantastic!

I'm realizing this post isn't half as exciting as I hoped it would be for the last one of the year. It honestly reflects my indifference to life right now and my anxiety crossing over into what's ahead. And for the record I'm totally PMSing and crying like a baby right now over EVERYTHING! Damnit! hahaha

Anyway, I guess I really just want to say a HUGE thank you for reading and following and liking pictures and retweeting posts and all your support and positive feedback and making me feel like my fighting for all of us is worth it! I wish you nothing but the best today and everyday, and I hope you are living the life you dream of!

2012 HERE I COME.

Totally Self Defeated!

2011-12-20T00:20:00.000-05:00

Booooo! Unfortunately The Big Girlie Holiday shows were cancelled. The venue wanted a certain amount of pre-sale tickets and we did not hit the mark. Although I was bummed about it, it may have been a blessing in disguise. I wasn't feeling well and met my goal of getting into bed before 10pm every night that I was able to. I was excited to perform with The Glamazons again and at a venue I hadn't before but what can we do? I believe it can only mean there are bigger things ahead for all of us!

I am also secretly happy because I was terrified to do my fan dance. I would rehearse and feel ok then rehearse 2 days later and feel awkward and embarrassed. I need to practice more but I'm putting it off out of fear. I'm now having anxiety over how small they are (even though they're really not) and because they're just not as fancy, I guess, as most have. I'm still really proud of them and am trying to figure out the best routine and costume to use them with. As for now my Blue Christmas act is just a tweaked version of I Don't Hurt Anymore.

I DID get to perform in a holiday show Saturday night. It was an amazingly successful benefit show for House of Loveness. An extremely tiny, wonderful and young foundation whose creator I had the absolute pleasure of meeting and chatting with. The turnout was impressive (to me anyway!) under a $35 ticket price, the raffles were SO awesome, and the silent auction of Luma Rouge sketches was a hit! I have to admit that everyone was extremely complimentary and I feel like the audience reactions during my act were super great. Kinda like what you want to hear and see every time you perform. I felt like a million bucks afterward!

Up next and what seems to be my last show of 2011 - UNLESS this New Year's Eve gig comes through (which would be amazing and the most pay I would see yet!) - is Mr. Choade's Upstairs/Downstairs Holiday Edition! Hooray! Performing with the slipper room in exile - HOW COOL!? I didn't get to see the old Slipper Room but when it reopens I will feel like a completely different person walking into it! Am really excited for Thursday and feeling much more confident now that I'm not pressuring myself into the fan dancing. I'd prefer a quality act I feel good about than ruining an age-old art!

Well, I hope you have a fab week and wonderful holiday season! Thanks for checking in and I hope to see some of you Thursday night!

Ciao for now,

TT

Oh! And don't forget to mark your 2012 calendars with

two MEAT MY FRIENDS dates:

January 7 - Full Cup, Staten Island

February 11 - Angels & Kings, NYC (HOLY SHIT!)

Fans on a Lucky Budget

2011-12-13T08:56:00.003-05:00

I make it very clear that I must be very organized when it comes to my finances. I'm not in the most fortunate of places when it comes to my bank account and my income but I remain grateful and aware that this is a lull in my journey. BUT even when I was making steady, good money I still enjoyed the thrill of the hunt. For a bargain that is!

This week I am debuting a fan dance for the FIRST time. My costume is smaller and with less bells and whistles and I'm ecstatic about it. I love my fans and although they are not as big and lush as I dream for one day I think they are lovely and full of character!

I have minimal options and time when it comes to crafting costumes and props. I am a hot glue gun professional ha! It holds, it's quick, and I have plenty of sticks to hold me over!
I also became a fan of larger sized sequins. They cover more area so you need less of them and I just gravitate towards them when shopping around.

I was so lucky to have gotten a response when I believe over a year ago I had put up a post on facebook and twitter asking passively if anyone happened to have any feathers they had lying around and wanted to donate to my costume crafting endeavors. Eureka! A very DIY friend of mine Bex (Fitness Guru Extraordinaire) had TONS of leftovers from her wedding to hot to trot photographer Justin (she's gonna punch me for writing "hot to trot" but he's so awesome I love him!)

I got to work looking up tips on the net to make what are know as panel fans. They do not have the interlocking handles that open and close and are much more annoying to transport but I actually love them and found them much less intimidating. I do not go the easy route I go the comfortable steps at a time route!

So TAHDAAAHHHH! I LOVE them and am very proud of them. I am excited to work on another routine with them. The only one I have prepared now is a holiday act I will be using for 3 shows!

I have to report that unfortunately tonight's show with The Glamazons: The Big Girlie Holiday Show is CANCELLED! The venue was hoping for more tickets to be bought up on pre-sale and that did not happen. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for Thursday's show and I ask if you are coming to please buy tickets ahead! (They are cheaper that way too!) I also have a show on Saturday being held by the producers of Paper Doll Productions and the teachers at Burlesque Bikini Bootcamp - those classes I took last year paid off! Hooray!
I also think I'll be at Mr. Choade's Upstairs/Downstairs show next Thursday! Holy cow!! The Slipper Room in exile..that's a super treat and huge honor!

I'm headin back to NY. I had a bittersweet visit to NJ. We had to send a friend of ours above the clouds much too soon but we know she's safe and sound and seeing her Dad again. The day was spent with friends and family celebrating each moment we have left with each other. I highly recommend it. It does wonders for the soul.

Thanks again for stopping by! We are getting closer and closer to the new year and I am freaking out for all good reasons! I've been trying to write more jokes to use as an emcee. I don't wanna bomb ha!
Have a great week, and I'll see you next time..

Ciao for now,
TT

The Here and Now

2011-12-06T09:44:00.003-05:00

It has been a rough year for lots of you around me. Many have lost loved ones unexpectedly or came too close. I don’t know how the universe can make it any clearer that each day is incredibly precious. I know you all like to post quotes about “living for today” but how many of you really do it? How many of you are truly doing the things you love with the people you love around you? I never encourage anyone to be frivolous or irresponsible I only ask of you to self-reflect and realize how often you say “one day I will…” when reality is that TODAY is your day.

I’m devastated by news of a lost friend. She didn’t get the chance to wake up one last morning. And what a beautiful morning it was.

I am guilty of complaining, whining, wishing...but I keep faith and confidence in myself and the powers that may be I am on the road I’ve wanted to be on for so long. And God(s) forbid my days are numbered I don’t think I could be at a better place. I know I am rich with family, friends and I am living in a city some only dream of seeing. I am thankful everyday and count my lucky stars. I’m struggling financially and some days mentally and emotionally but I would never trade it for anything in the world. I hope you can say the same and if not I dream for the moment you can.

I had a show last night which was the hardest one yet. I broke down moments before but I went out there with all I had. I remind you on the regular that life is hard but I'd rather be living it . There is so much goodness to experience if you just allow yourself. The hard times will pass and the rest will fall into place. Be good to yourselves...No day but today.

Sending you endless love,

Tina

PS: I plan on being at Nurse Bettie's on Thursday, 9:45p gogo, 10p free show!

Baby, It's Not Even Cold Outside

2011-11-29T08:51:00.001-05:00

But it's basically December already! The world is ending for sure. You can tell because the weather is all "flip flopped" ha! Halloween we had snow, on Thanksgiving there were suburban men wearing shorts. I like the warmer temps but I hear that's all about to change in the coming week. Corny.

Where has this awesome year gone? Who knows but it's not over just yet! I've got a lineup of shows that went from zero to a bajillion in a matter of 24 hours. (I tell you no lies...only sometimes ha!)
I'm super excited but also anxious of course because I'll be juggling it all between 2 jobs and switching my schedule around with coworkers, trying to make them happen in the least stressful way possible.
I have a few holiday shows (maybe more, just waiting to confirm) with only one act but I'm procrastinating getting it together. I'm nervous so I'm working against myself like an idiot. It's my first fan dance! With panel fans that I made myself. I just need to decorate the handles and I'll post a picture to my facebook page. I'm feeling that embarrassment of cheap costume again. So pathetic. I'm not backing down from the shows but I'm extra frustrated right now! Either way I know I'm gonna have a blast. I'm working with some new people in new venues and that to me is enough to make any anxiety simmer down!

I hope you had a great holiday I know I did! Got to see some family that I haven't in awhile, spent lots of time with my big brother and even snuck in a Colin Kane show in Philly! Was gonna go to Canada with my parents to visit some cousins but I also had a friend's baby shower that I didn't want to miss! It was a long, exhausting weekend but SO worth it.

So here's my current calendar (so far!) - I hope you can make a show or two, would love to see you!

Tuesday, Nov 29 - door girl!
The Pink Room: The Best of David Lynch Burlesque
Parkside Lounge
9pm $15

Monday, Dec 5 - first time with this show and at this venue! Stellar Lineup too!
The Pussy Scratching Fox Show
Tammany Hall
9pm $10

Thursday, Dec 8 - back at it again! I don't know what act to do!? A new one isn't even close to being ready.
Spanking the Lower Eastside
Nurse Bettie
10p FREE

Tuesday, Dec 13 & Thursday, Dec 15 - playing with The Glamazons again!
The Big Girlie Holiday Show
The Triad NYC
9pm $15 (visit the Glamazon website for $5 discount code)

Saturday, Dec 17 - first time with this troupe and at this brand new venue!
Benefit show for House of Loveness with producers and dancers of the Burlesque Bikini Bootcamp school
The Ball NY
Further info TBA

...and exhale!
This is cray cray. It is almost 1 year since I hit the stage for the first time doing burlesque and I cannot be happier as to where I'm headed.

Meat My Friends is going back to Staten Island Saturday, Jan 7, I'm hosting and performing in another show on Long Island on Saturday, Jan 21 and then Meat My Friends is making its Manhattan debut Saturday, Feb 11! Omg.

So wild.
Have a great week and keep chasing your dreams. You're not dead yet!

Ciao for now,
TT

Get A Grip Ladies!

2011-11-22T10:21:00.002-05:00

I think the line between confidence and clingy has become thinner. Only because guys are having to deal more and more with the latter. I had faith that with age things would be much "cooler" when it came to casual relationships but I'm finding that guys still shut down and shut you out due to what I think is a fear that we're getting too close. Well boys, get over yourselves and girls get a fucking grip!

I got sorta pissed off thinking about my last lover. I only mentioned him briefly here. He doesn't live in NY and our great night happened within a few weeks of when he would be leaving. I was sorta bummed because we never hung out after that. I got a clue once I heard (and read) his shift in tone. (PS: That's always the key. If girls listened more, they'd know the exact point at which their relationship changed).
Anyway, we chatted a bit here and there, I saw him out, but I was still left hangin. I'm not sure if he felt like I was being clingy or something, but all I wanted from him was to get naked and makeout again. I wasn't trying to make a movie date or even coffee! Your first reaction is probably to say, "aww, Tina, that means he didn't even wanna hook up with you again". That's malarkey because we've kept in contact (he'll be back in NY in a few months) and I'd bet what little money I have that we'll be bumpin uglies.
My lover (I totally enjoying calling him that) came up in conversation while chatting with a good friend of mine. He was telling me a story about a mutual girlfriend of ours and how CRAZY she was reacting to a guy not spending the night at her place. Long story short, her asking for "advice" was more of a whiny "But whhyyyy? What does it mean? Did I do this wrong?" etc...Meanwhile in both our opinions the guy was very clear and honest about his intentions for the night with no hidden motives. So after all this, my conversation friend brought up the Koala. He described her in the image of those koala bear clip-on toys. Remember those?

What I liked most about the reference he described is how lacking in self-awareness it is! We commented on how girls get emotionally clingy to someone so new and then when things go, in her eyes, questionably she freaks out. She becomes self-deprecating and immediately throws all confidence out the window. This happens with ALL sorts of girls. Ages, shapes, sizes, background. I can assure you. But what makes me bitter of recent, is that Koalas are fucking up mine and the rest of the keep-our-cool single girls' chances at repeat, no-strings-attached quality sexy time with a potential new friend!

I know girls aren't 100% to blame though, guys have to start loosening up about this too! I understand you react based on past experiences but c'mon it's 2011! You are potentially spending time with a new breed of single girl that is having fun and trying not to put pressure on anything in her life really no matter what her age. I'm not equating her to promiscuity (even if she's getting down like that) but I am saying you need to stop assuming Koalas are all that's left. There are some (lots, more than you think) Kittens roaming around that are just trying to play with some yarn. Know what I'm saying? Ha!

My bitterness is at a high because I'm feeling needy. Lonely even. But just for the record I'd rather stay like this and work through it while waiting for someone great to spend my time with.

I hope you all have a wonderful holiday! I am so looking forward to family time and eating like a King. Thanks again for stopping by!

Ciao for now,
TT

PS: Next week's post will have an updated list of show dates! I have 3 holiday gigs AND I'm doing someone's show for the first time! Woohooo! My December went from 1 show to 5!

Forget Jesus, Optimism Take the Wheel

2011-11-14T23:54:00.001-05:00

I oft say ("oft" ha!) that I am both cursed and blessed being so inherently (I believe) optimistic. I don't know where it stems from and when people ask me for inspiration so they too can share in this energy, I can only reply with a mediocre "I don't know. I just am."
Although I feel it comes so naturally to me, I also work on it. I guess the only "tip" I would really encourage people to follow is taking time for yourself. I don't simply mean surface-time either, like going shopping alone, the movies (which I highly recommend) or getting a table for one. I mean really sitting down with yourself and realizing what an amazing FORCE you can truly be to whatever capacity you want. It's really that simple. No need to foresee too many years ahead, it's little steps that will make HUGE strides for your self-esteem and the rest will follow. A very cheesy, but sweet movie to take example from is when in Garden State, Natalie Portman's character tells Zach Braff she makes a noise or does something no one has ever done before, when she's feeling unoriginal.

I am also not scared to admit at times the positive, happy persona acts as a cover up. It makes you less vulnerable to others. I've posted extremely personal, and emotional blogs before so you know I haven't an immunity to sadness or anger. I am human, duh! I also think that people on the pessimistic end of the spectrum (that I believe we share) use their energy as a cover up also. What better way to avoid emotional pain than to prepare yourself mentally? It's a "brace yourself" attitude.
A good friend of mine used to call me the Eternal Optimist as defined by Soren Kiekergaard. A lot of our debates were over his opinion that optimists do not have thoughts based in reality, so that positivism does not take into account any possibility for negative outcome. My argument was that we maintain awareness of negative possibility but this then becomes another way to create or find the desired goal. In simpler terms someone might say I am an "ignorance is bliss" supporter but I disagree with that phrase and do not keep such a philosophy being an optimist! Actually, being an artist, I love feeling every emotion so I really want to experience it all: good, bad, ugly, whatevs, GIVE IT TO ME!

Dang! Why did I just get so intense? Oh, because I bought Psychology Today magazine I think for the first time in my life. I've always perused issues but then settled for a less thought provoking Glamour. Anyway, I decided to buy this time because December's cover read:
OPTIMISM: How to Tap it, When to wield it...or withhold it.
SOLD!
After reading their article on new studies of both STRATEGIC optimism and pessimism - yes it's necessary - I am only feeling more comfortable in the person I am. I am a dreamer - an optimistic trait - and I don't always base my faith in positive outcomes in reality but in this way optimists motivate themselves. On the other hand, pessimists use an opposite approach, focusing on the possibility of negative, only to achieve the same goals. Also, to be clear, a pessimist does not mean you are an Eeyore among Winnie the Poohs, but you find a different motivation to force yourself into action. I myself have made it very clear that when I am feeling anxious I bite my nails, procrastinate and usually waste money that I barely have. A true pessimist, uses his anxieties to move in a different direction. The simple message is that no matter which "side" (which there shouldn't be sides because both Os and Ps are a tools of force for any individual) as long as your approach to achieving your goal is without hurting yourself or others (be it mentally, physically, emotionally) it is safe to say you will be a successful, healthy person. But for the record I don't mind smiling most of the time, telling bad jokes, appearing as a careless slacker because I know, in the end, I'm gonna be right where I want to be! *Zing to you serious, boring, business people out there haha!

So more about me. I've been feeling REALLY good about my body lately. I don't know why though. I haven't been eating that well, haven't performed in over a week, and I haven't made the sex in sometime. BUT I did have my shoot this Saturday with Moz Foto and am THRILLED about the teaser picture she has posted. I'm dying on the inside. Not on the outside because we must remain modest & humble as to not jinx it. HA! Here is the picture if you haven't seen it on my Facebook or Twitter! I'm obsessed. I'm also curious to see what my Mom thinks *bites nails*
I did my own makeup and hair because our awesome location was on a short time frame. My eyes came out great. I did em much smokier than on any other shoot and I love the outcome. We kept lips more on the nude side. All color products were MAC: Eyeshadow: Carbonized (limited edition that I highly recommend, sold out online!), Lips: Soar Lip Pencil and Pink Plaid Matte Lipstick (a fave for years now, I switch up the liner underneath and it changes the lipstick), Lashes: my $1.99 top-secret no-name special. As for complexion I am obsessed with Lancome's Teint Idole and Korres' concealer. Brushes are from Sephora Platinum/Airbrush collection. They will change your makeup application for life. Just sayin.
Woohooo - success!

Damnit I had something funny to end this post with and now I forget. I should have written it down! I'm trying to do that more. Whenever I have any good ideas or jokes I MUST jot them down or type them into my phone. My brain is in overdrive right now because I might have a MANHATTAN venue interested in having a show. That's all I'm saying.

Thanks again for reading, have a wonderful week, it's almost Thanksgiving! Although I almost forgot about it because there's Christmas shit everywhere.

Ciao for now,
TT

PS: I made myself fans!! They're not done yet so I won't post a picture yet. But the plan is to use them in my holiday shows that I'm doing with The Glamazons! More info to come!

HELP! I need somebody...

2011-11-08T00:09:00.005-05:00

Not really, just want your input!
Damnit I have no patience when I'm excited to share something!
I have a video of my newest (and most favorite act) but this night wasn't a great run of it. My zipper was turned into my dress (fuck!) so you see my wittle fingers scrambling around for it hahah, my confetti didn't exit the tissue (AT ALL!) so I look a little strange whipping it around before giving up and finally, my lower level of confidence (due to nervousness over hosting the show!) definitely held me back. My movements seemed a little sloppy and my face even "bored" at times. All defense mechanisms. Booooo!
But I'm eager to show you! Those of you that can't make it to shows, let alone make it to NYC. I am honored that you read and stay up on my news and performances so I want to share the best and most often I can!

I do though have a copy coming from last Thursday when I joined The Glamazons (who were SO ADORABLE AND SO SO NICE!) on the stage of Le Poisson Rouge for The Big Girlie Show. I can easily compare my experience of the two performances because when I flung my dress last week, it was THE BEST feeling I ever had, I think ever on stage!! There was admittedly a little, how should I call it, "idleness" in some parts, but overall I think I kicked serious ass.

SO WHAT TO DO?! Share the current/mediocre video OR hold my whoreses for what I feel was a better performance, stage, everything?

By the way, wearing stockings on stage isn't even an issue anymore. When I kitten I always wear them though. That's because I feel too on display to be showin skin only. Eek! But as far as dancing, I've realized now that if I wear any sort of tights it's more about the look/attitude than for my ultra sheer layer of protection, be it physical or emotional! :)

I am also working on the return of Meat My Friends to Staten Island - SATURDAY, JANUARY 7TH - mark your calendars! We'll be heading back to Full Cup and I'm bringing some of NY's most talented. AAAAND there might be a chance of a South Jersey show close to my hometown which would probably make my year 2012 incomparable. *fingers crossed* We'll see how the owner feels about it after mulling it over. He joked about my having a show there so I turned the conversation serious...Lets DO IT!

So for now, comment below and tell me which video to post! Wanna wait it out?

I'm also gonna start sending out some facebook messages to help my blogging topic ventures! You might be a lucky one...or unlucky depending on how you feel about it, but all repsonses will be kept anonymous to the public if you request it. I won't be asking for anything more than what you're willing to share with me.
Have no fear, Tina Tassels is here! On that note, I should go. Can you tell I'm exhausted?

Ciao for now,
TT

PS: Here's the weirdest/most random picture I found when googling "mistletoe". So bizarre, right!?

Can I Call You Pumpkin?

2011-11-01T00:34:00.000-04:00

Of course you can...HAPPY HALLOWEEN!
Hope you all had a nice weekend (or at least a night) of celebrating. I'm not a freak about the holiday but I do enjoy it. In college though, Halloween only induced my size anxiety. There is always the joke of being "sexy" something and I'm fine with it but I never partook. I'll never forget Halloween my freshman year. A group of us dorm girls were waiting in line at a stupid fucking frat party. I was usually the anchor of the posse because I wasn't really the girl the door guys were looking to let inside. I was a clown that year, in a ridiculously large costume that I LOVED and thought was so much fun but definitely not the stereotypical freshman girl getup. Here's a picture before we left our dorm!

Anyway, walking into the party, I remember some douche baggy kid sorta checkin out each girl as she walked in saying his cheesy "alright, we got a devil, playboy bunny, little red riding hood...etc, etc" In I went only to hear "no fat chicks allowed" and the boys giggling. I pretended not to hear those things but alas they had ruined a night that hadn't even started. Throughout college I barely talked to guys because they didn't talk to me. While my friends found the "coolest" of dudes to hook up with, I'd be in bed wondering why they were so mean. Weren't the guys in college supposed to be more mature? It's hard to be a social person and really love people when they don't care to like you back. Your faith in them plummets. Of course I shake my head and laugh at this now, I just feel for the millions of young girls (and guys) that are going through this...*sigh* keep your heads up kids, one day you'll be so proud you did! A million hugs your way!

This year, I hadn't really thought much about my costume. It was probably the first time I didn't really have an idea of what I wanted to be so I decided to resurrect an oldie but goodie! I save all my costumes and being on a budget this definitely helps! I brought my pumpkin out of storage, which I wore either Sophomore or Junior year (I was also Garth once haha). The only addition I hand made was my stalk! I had all the materials and literally spent about 15mins on it and it was the perfect touch.

I also got the reaction that I 100% expected. Most of the girls were surprised I wasn't "made up more" or had a fancier costume. Even the guys, weeks before the party, when I told them about it, would sort of pause then force an "alright". HA! I love it.

I wanted to chat about Halloween because I'm no hater. Sadly, if a girl feels she only gets one night a year to go all out and be sexy, then wear whatever the fuck it is you wanna wear. Be it short, long, tight, baggy, ugly, cute, funny just own it and feel great! The night/party/holiday is yours to enjoy just as much as anyone else! Werk it.

This week is my show with The Glamazons. I'm SO nervous. I'm also super excited to meet some new people and also get to perform at Le Poisson Rouge! AAAAAhhhhh! You can find all info here. If you can, please come out and support the cause. I am extremely honored to be a part of it.

Ciao for now,

TT

PS: I'm taking suggestions on what to write about for new posts! Please feel free to post them on my page!

Tassels on Delay!

2011-10-26T13:46:00.001-04:00

No, I'm not stoned -although I wish- I was just super lazy! And when I wasn't feeling lazy I was at work...boooooo to me, I know!

Happy Wednesday! How was Tuesday without me? Awful I'm betting ha! jk jk (I love writing double "jk"!) I had a really fun yet fairly uneventful weekend. Friday night I decided to meet my girl Charlie Gunn(whom I hadn't seen in FOREVER!) at Calamity Chang's Room 69. I say it a lot, I don't go to shows much because frankly I just can't afford to go out. I have to be really selective and aware of my week when planning things. This was well worth it, even though I was exhausted and could have easily gone home and to bed. I practiced what I preached, though and headed out for a glass of wine!

It was fun to watch the show and see what the audience sees. I really loved performing at Hotel Chantelle so I wanted to check out a different POV. Afterward we ended up having another drink and some good eats at the usual post-show spot whose freakin name I cannot think of to save my life but it's right on the corner of Ludlow and Broome, across from Chantelle! Anyway, I love sitting with CC, she gives me great advice when I need it and really encourages me.

Everyone needs a cheerleader! Other than my occasional hot ass reflection, I work overtime being my own cheerleader mentally. Here's my self-absorbed hot morning pic. I posted it on my Twitter but I try my best (sometimes!) to keep Facebook free of slutty pics I take of myself for my mother's sake. I love this bra, it makes my rack look extremely approachable haha grrr, I need a haircut but my color looks fly as hell!

Right now my calendar is pretty empty which means I have to use my free nights wisely to work on current acts and feel out a new one. Next week though I have a SUPER exciting show that I had mentioned before: The Big Girlie Show with THE GLAMAZONS! What what! Doing my newest act, which I LOVE, so I hope it goes over well!

Additionally I'm in the works of heading back to Staten Island with Meat My Friends. I was really putting it off because I'm in search for my Manhattan venue. Yes "my", I'm not messing around. When it feels right, it's gonna happen!

I have a bad habit of saying "blah blah blah...and I'm a nobody" when a great opportunity is offered to me and I'm so excited explaining it to someone. We all know it's much easier to give advice than to take it but my number one goal is stop saying this. I don't think it all the time but sometimes it's easy to be self-deprecating as to avoid being proud! Well fuck the bullshit, I am pumped and I AM somebody! :)

Thanks for reading and baring with my tardiness!

Ciao for now,

TT

PS: Here's the official flyer for The Big Girlie Show - please share it!

Mind over Matter.

2011-10-17T23:55:00.003-04:00

As long as I kept myself laughing I wouldn't start crying. Everything the priest said I would take the wrong way as to shift my attention from what was really happening. I always knew I'd be at your wedding, but I didn't think I'd be a guest.

It's over now and at the advice of many this should be closure but it hasn't hit me yet. Today I do not want to get out of bed. I'm still confused and in some thoughts filled with anger. I feel ripped off by the universe and that everything I believe in has been turned to dust. At this very second, I am having a hard time looking ahead. I admit with confidence, that your first dance as husband and wife was the hardest thing I've ever had to sit through in my life thus far. I excused myself midway to collect my thoughts in the restroom. In that moment I needed to walk away as much as I needed air.

Throughout the night I kept conversation, rum'n'cokes, and cigarettes coming. At some point I had really convinced myself that I was somewhere else and nothing of the sort had happened at all. It was in creeping moments of silence when my mind had time to wander. And in those same moments I'd turn my eyes up letting the tears dry on their own.

----------------------

The beginning of my weekend was nothing short of amazing though. I was at Nurse Bettie's on Thursday with a new act and had super confidence in it. I feel ok to say it went really well and I'm pretty sure it looked great. Either way, I felt like a million bucks afterward.

Friday, I was super honored to both perform then host the Early Bird Special show of Drive Thru Burlesque. It was my first time hosting in Manhattan. I can't believe it's happened...this can only be the beginning! It was a rough start. I was the opener and the crowd wasn't anywhere near warmed up yet. As with lots of shows once you start feeling the groove and the audience seems looser, the show is about to be over *womp womp* but none the less I had a blast. I took note of some things that worked and didn't work. There is no way to get better at anything than just going for it, working it out on the stage. It was awesome!

I need to update my resume as far as day jobs go. I've done a lot over the last year and haven't put it down in writing yet. I'm not that happy with the things I'm doing to get by and pay rent. I need more creative freedom, a sense of authority (because I like being charge, I'm organized and I'm good at it), and frankly a bigger pay check.

Now, more than ever, is the time I must keep on keepin on.

I Love Raw Zucchini!!

2011-10-11T06:40:00.002-04:00

Jokes are welcome but I'm obsessed! I've also booked a shoot for next month with the likes of Moz Photo who I had the absolute pleasure of meeting while I was out in Long Island at the Rockabilly Hot Rod Riot. I haven't shot in sometime and am not only dying to but I need new pics stat! Booking a shoot also sets off my nerves! I'm looking forward to shooting with a woman again though. Haven't done that since Lindsey Thorne, who shot some of THE best pictures I have (1 is right there! On location at the Chelsea Piers & The Frying Pan). She's now working her magic in Austin, TX. Not that I'm uncomfortable with men but I definitely feel calmer when I have a confident woman on my side, rooting for my best face/body/everything to come out! Biggup to my lady photogs!

My birthday was on Tuesday. (As you would know if you freakin read my shit HA! jk jk) I got my tattoo, which is healing beautifully. Went back to Hand of Glory even though my boy Derek bounced on NYC for the suburbs of CT. So happy with the work of Matt Ahn!! I did the usual barely sleeping when I have a fresh tattoo due to my fear of rubbing it off in the night. Impossible I know but I paid good money so I'm not trying to fuck these up! I ended up having a great dinner with my 2 lady friends JT & DC. We went to Fonda - totally our fave - in Park Slope and had margaritas and every dessert on the menu only AFTER I asked the guys to sing to us. There were also 2 other birthdays in the house. October 5th is the most popular birthday in the world. It's totes hilar to think all our parents were bangin on NYE - live it up! hahaha

I'm totally PMSing. Ew, sorry. But I think having moved in with a new girl, my shit has been all messed up and off schedule. So annoying!! And, we all know I ain't gettin any lately so it isn't a pregnancy scare here. Besides, if I was that peanut growing in my belly, I'd be more scared LOL (wow, great abortion joke, I rule!) I feel like I'm always puffy and pms-y when I have a bunch of shows. I'm always exhausted and kinda just want the show to be over with (no way to live a life!) and this is exactly how I felt Friday...blah!

I worked my day job and then had to werk it at Room 69. There was this terribly talented lineup, which also makes me self-conscious, and I was so tired and feeling bad about my body until I walked up the freakin stairs at Hotel Chantell only to see NJ FRIENDS: LP, KB, and RM like deer in headlights!!!!! I was so confused and over come with emotion I didn't know what to say!!! WHY/HOW WERE THEY HERE?! Can you believe it? I couldn't. Within 1 second of seeing their faces and hearing them say "this isn't all of us" I both freaked out and started crying. My bro showed up. Enough said. They brought me yellow roses (my fave kind, I don't think any of them knew that either!) and a custom made cake with my pic on it...it was nothing short of amazing. They rule so hard and totally turned not only my night around but my birthday week. Also I have to say how much I LOVED performing at Room 69. It's evolved into a floor show and playing the entire room was nothing short of exhilarating! So glad Calamity's decided to start having newer folk perform there!

Even Thursday night was a blast. One of my bffs from Flotown, CJ, was here (for what I thought was only the night because he was also in on my Friday night surprise!)! I ended up meeting Andy of Soldier Leisure. He's an artist of mainly murals that you can spot around the world I think, if not only the US. I'm loving this growing brand am looking forward to working with him. Amongst drinks and getting to know each other we chatted business and I can't wait to see the magic we make! Stand by for deets down the road!

So I'm finally doing a new act that I've been sorta blowing off. It's a classic to a Dinah Washington song and I'm over the moon about it. The song itself moves me like crazy, I think it's gonna be super liberating to werk that shit out on stage. Another busy week of day job then night jobs but I'm stoked!

Add to your calendars for this week:
**Thursday Nurse Bettie's 10p FREE show with Calamity Chang and company
**Friday Parkside Lounge 11p $10 (3shows!) with Drive Through Burlesque - I am both performing in and HOSTING the Early Bird Special. This officially marks my first ever time as a host in Manhattan. I can't even wrap my head around it. Prepare to hear all my secrets. I don't know why I spill my guts when I have a mic in my hand but I have a blast!
Side note: the people that run these shows are so fucking supportive and sweet and keep it so real and perverted in life that I can't say enough about them!

Am waiting for confirmation that I'll be performing in a show hosted by The Glamazons!!! Holy cow!
And I think I also just booked my first show FOR THE NEW YEAR! What?! Headin back to Long Island!

I won't lie. I've been a bit busy and haven't made some phone calls about putting shows together Bad Tina! *slaps self across the face*

This is my weekly update and it sounds pretty great to me! I am still on the hunt for non-ill fitting white bottoms. Preferably ruffled ones but I can't seem to find plus sized ones in a store (I don't want to order online!).

Hope you have a great week ahead and even greater weekend plans! Thanks for continually checking in with Bip Hips, Big Dreams - it means more than you could possibly know!

Ciao for now,

TT

PS: If you're in NYC, get your tix to Colin Kane. This hilarious, filthy, smokin hot, and truly inspiring comedian. My man is climbing to the top and I plan on watching him every step of the way. Oct 20 at Gotham Comedy Club - Do it! I'll be there with my too-hot-to-trot singer sidekick Angelo. #noautographsorpictures #security!

Another Year Older, None the Wiser

2011-10-04T10:17:00.001-04:00

That's totally a lie!
I'm feeling on top of my game (the game of life that is) I'm just lacking the physical resources (money) to bring what I want to life (musical theater with a twist). I'm really struggling financially. For how much I work I barely make enough to keep afloat in NYC. Additionally, I've got -what most would think- are poorly prioritized priorities. Ha! Does that make sense? Rent first, food next, cigarettes (yeah, I know, shut up) mixed in with coffee, shoes, dresses, tattoos, dining out, and then somehow I manage to get some bills paid on time. Whatevs, mind ya biz! hahah

Anyway...it's my Birthday! Hooray! I'm 28. Can you believe it? I can't. I don't stress much about age though, that's silly. It's only when I put my current life up against my friends' and family's living in the burbs. In NY I feel at ease, when I leave is when I feel judged and completely lacking. Last in line. I feel like NYC is the magnet for the 1 friend in a group that gets sucked here to live among fellow dream chasers. Dreamers are everywhere, it's the chasers that find one another...

I'm feeling a bit lonely (it's late on Monday/early Tuesday)..I should clarify: I wish I wasn't alone tonight. That aside...this my 3rd birthday in NY. I still pinch myself as a reminder that it IS MY REAL LIFE. I am living it. So crazy fucking cool. I've had an especially great year with all the people I've met and am constantly meeting, the opportunities being offered or even the ones I'm making for myself. I'm incredibly proud of how I continue to evolve and get closer and closer to the person I not only want to be, but know I truly am. I know that all this not-so-hard phase of hardships will pay itself off!

So far 28 is great (all 50mins of it haha!).
I'll continue keeping the faith in my big hips and my big dreams because after such a year, I've nothing left to lose!

Happy Tuesday cats & kittens!
Ciao for now,

TT

PS: This Friday, 10/7 Hotel Chantelle Debut for Calamity Chang's Room 69...sizzle! Free show, 9pm sharp, gorgeous place come have a glass of wine with me!

Apple Cake

2011-09-27T01:25:00.004-04:00

My Mom and Grandmom came to visit on Monday and brought me lots o'stock for my fridge including almás aka in boring English "Apple Cake" my Gmom made. Grandmom is cool. She sincerely liked my apartment which made me feel good. So sweet. I also got some stuffed cabbage which I had no idea was coming so I'm psyched about that too hahaha I'm obviously super excited about the free home cooked food I was brought today...

In other news there is no news. I think the universe is on my side when it comes to maintaining a level of confidence and keeping my eye on the possibility of achieving goals. Again, it took me years to get here but there's some higher power(s) definitely holding their hand out for me. I am grateful for the good signs and the unfortunate ones too.

Recently, there was a woman that I had never met - I've only admired her from afar due mainly to her hair, makeup and always vintage attire - and she passed away. Suddenly. At 31. I am tearful even writing this now. In moments like this I am furious with the skies. I ask of you to please not wish the days away...life is short.

It's already Tuesday again. So crazy. This month as flown by and October is days away. The main reason for my Mom's visit was to bring me my freshly hemmed and pressed gown for Thursday night! It's the teaser party for The Ninth Annual NY Burlesque Festival. I am pumped to be a volunteer and will be helping out with performer check-ins and then wherever I am needed after that!

I have a couple of feelers out to produce some shows, stay tuned for the word on that. Would be working with some new venues and people which is always exciting for me. *fingers crossed* Hopefully some thing gets confirmed soon.

I realize my post is lacking in exclamation points which is extremely not like me. I'm feeling very sensitive about life and it's no guarantee policy. I never live in fear but every now and then I get worried about the people around me. So sorry to poop on this party!

I hope you are feeling well and living life the way you want.

Ciao for now,

TT

Blah Blah Blah!

2011-09-20T00:21:00.002-04:00

I love the dress. I couldn't stop staring at myself in the mirror and through her just as excited exhale, my mom pleaded "honey, just keep the weight off." Within seconds I took the dress off and walked away without saying more than "uh huh, because you too exercise and have a healthy diet." She barely understood what I meant.
What the hell? Everyone has fallen victim to parents saying the wrong things but I just don't get it. That shit hurts. They ruin everything in a moment with barely a full sentence. And when it comes to my mom it's usually about my weight.
The dress I'm talking about is my gorgeous floor length gown I'll be wearing as a presenter at the Golden Pastie Awards. I'm over the moon about it all. The dress is more gorgeous in person (had to order a different size and color online). I'm not putting a picture of the website on here because there has to be some element of surprise when I finally do get to wear it in 2 weeks!

That aside, late Thursday night my friends in Big Daddy Deluxe reached out looking for a last minute emcee...after a few minutes of trying to come up with someone I offered myself! Wasn't sure if they'd go for it but THEY DID! I was the evening lady on the mic at the Rockabilly Hot Rod Riot in Long Island. So excited I happened to have the day off so it was meant to be! I got to ride the train with Evelyn Vinyl and Dottie Dynamo who were booked for the burlesque portion. Later they also joined the pinup contest which was SO much fun because there ended up being a really drunk girl that got herself right in line and man she was a blast to fuck with on stage hahaha Long Island proved to be a lot of fun and the rockabilly scene is going as strong as they can. I met so many awesome people from roller derby girls, to the vintage car owners, musicians, performers, you name it! Everyone was incredibly kind and I got a lot of positive feedback which was SO nice!! Not gonna lie, I almost didn't offer myself out of fear & overall laziness but I pushed myself because I knew I would have regretted it for sure!

There are some really wonderful pictures from Saturday. A lot of professional photogs were around and a lot of not so professional guys with cell phones HA! I think I look HUGE in those pictures (which probably means I'm huge in real life too). I also look at them today and think "god, I looked awful!" I didn't feel awful though so I guess that counts for something. I definitely have some weird reversal of ego because I feel like a size 4 in a size 14/16 mold. ugh...I'll give myself a few days to like those pictures. I loved my hair though. Probably the only thing I have going for me. I am totally emotional for girl reasons *hint hint* hahah gross!

Last night I was at Kitty Nights again and tried out some clowning. I wasn't too happy with it. I was a little too impulsive rather than sticking to what I had rehearsed. Also my clown shoes aren't ready yet so I just wore my red sequin shoes against my will. Other than that I performed along side some super talent and as always there was a great audience! I love Fem but I mean, who doesn't really?!

Tomorrow night I am kittening (meow!) at Calamity Chang's Drunken Dragon Night at Macoa Trading Co. again. Working with some girls I haven't yet so that's exciting!! Debating what to do with my hair. Might go with a middle part for a Betty Boop look. We shall see...

I'm also rehearsing with my Two Hand Band over the next few weeks. We might have a gig at Drive Thru Burlesque *wink*

Hope you had a wonderful weekend and now an even better week to follow. Thanks for stopping by!

Ciao for now,
TT

37,000 Feet

2011-09-13T00:06:00.000-04:00

That's our cruising altitude. I love flying. I used to pretend-hate it like most of the population does and was convinced I'd die in the air, or rather, falling out of it. Today I realized how safe I feel up here - yes, I'm above the clouds as I type. Totes cray cray! If anything I feel even better in the sky. There's an incubating effect, I feel calm...usually.

I also am not sure if it's American Air or my hips but I fit in my seat like a hand in it's glove. I'll never forget in 2006 - my Euro trip - I barely fit between the arm rests. I felt my 204-ish lb frame's unapologetic spreading out, creeping up on my neighbor. My thighs felt 3x the size they already were. Talk about being embarrassed. After that series of flights I trained myself to wear the tightest jeans I could to keep me encased. I don't weigh much less in numbers but I look a whole lot different. The seats felt like lazy boys this time around :)

The second our wheels lifted off the runway I started crying. I felt absurdly lonely, confused, completely useless, unoriginal, uncreative, and everything else lacking luster, gusto, or confidence. Total 180 from when I was landing a couple of days ago. Ugh, I'm so sensitive. I know it's part of my charm but its hard being such a softie. I also know that not everyone can take a deep breath and keep trudging on the way I do! Until next time, Good Bye LA thanks for 2 solid days of emotional weightlessness.

I finished reading Larry "Bozo" Harmon's Book The Man Behind the Nose. I don't think I've read anything I've been this inspired by in ages. The simplicity is whats pushing me to take flight. I would give anything to have had even 5mins with the clown or the man behind the nose. I feel such a connection with just his writing and the way he presented it. I felt like it was a conversation between him and I. A casual chat. A one-on-one over coffee. He also had little pictures to accompany his stories and some were so random I actually laughed out loud.

There's no other way to explain his life: he was a simple, small town boy with big dreams. It was only by chance he really pursued show business, because he was well on his way to becoming a doctor! He was kind, hard-working at no matter what job he had taken, and confident. His ultimate goal in life was to ensure that people were living joyous lives filled with laughter. Peanuts! Bozo was the vehicle for him to spread such a message round the world.

I'm really enjoying another clown coming into my life. My first real taste of theater/show business was interning for Slava's Snowshow and I've been a clown-lover since. I always thought about clown college (ha!) but as with most training/classes I long for, I cannot afford so freely. I'll be testing out my first public clown chops at Kitty Nights this Sunday!

Today I'm starting my makeup training with Sephora. Finally!
Am really excited about this. I am trying to get as much as I can out of this company. I know it is not where I want to be forever but right now I am grateful to have something regular and to be learning about something I love. I've been going back and forth about leaving another regular job I have. Will keep you updated on that. The regular cash will be tough to leave behind but it's just such a drag on me. I need to take my own advice and do what's right for me, my soul!

Thanks for swingin' by today, hope you have a great week! xoxo

Ciao for now,

TT

It's Oh So Quiet...shhhh, shhhh

2011-09-06T08:33:00.000-04:00

JUST KIDDING! I wanna shout from a mountain top! Well not really, I'd rather be on stage yelling and telling dirty secrets and bad jokes and that's exactly where I'll be! I'm now sitting down with my calendar and am ecstatic with what's written in the dates.

We're just 4 weeks shy of my 28th Birthday. This means - that after a year of shenanigans (read: burlesque classes, to performing, to producing, to hosting) I am now a part of something really over-the-top exciting! As my readers and some friends know, my friend JT and I celebrated our birthdays at the NY Burlesque festival last year and that time has come again. A little twist in the story though, is that at this year's awards ceremony; The Golden Pastie Awards I'M GOING TO BE A PRESENTER! HOLY SHIT! That means, if you, my pseudo-colleague and probable stage inspiration, win an award I will be one of the girls handing it to you! The hunt for the perfect gown continues - HELP ME, I'M FREAKING OUT AND AM DIRT POOR!
Aside from the immediate anxiety this proposition induced, I am now speechless with delight having said "of course". It will be an honor to share such a night with some people that have unknowingly changed my life forever.

I am happy to say my calendar seems comfortably filled with shows. Here's where you can see me over the next few weeks and hopefully that means you come out!

Sunday, Sept 18 - PERFORMING Kitty Nights at Mug Lounge with the coolest cat of all Fem Appeal
Tuesday, Sept 20 - KITTENING Macao Trading Co. Drunken Dragon Nights with my favorite asian Calamity Chang
Sunday, Oct 2 - PRESENTING Golden Pastie Awards - wow, just wow.
Tuesday, Oct 4 - PERFORMING Regular Life on my Birthday HA! Gotcha! I'm sneaky.
Friday, Oct 7 - PERFORMING FOR THE FIRST TIME Hotel Chantelle Room 69, Chang does it again!
Thursday, Oct 13 - PERFORMING Nurse Bettie's Spankin the LES, Asian Sexsation hahah!
Friday, Oct 14 - HOSTING Drive Thru Burlesque at Parkside Lounge - really looking forward to hosting the Early Bird Special portion of the show. I love chatting up the audience and am so grateful to Lefty Lucy & Sizzle Dizzle for giving me a place to work it out!

*exhale* This is crazy! I can't get over it. Mark your calendars freaks!

I'm coming down from my weekend-in-New Jersey high. I got to celebrate 2 great birthdays with old friends. We sat around a fire, I drank way too much rum and laughed so hard I cried. Best of times.

I leave for LA Thursday morning for a quick job. I need to get out of here for a bit but I wish I wasn't going alone. Whatevs! What can I do. I think I'm having a rough week because I made a sort of bad decision this weekend. It was partially against my will, almost like I was testing myself and now I'm paying for it emotionally. It's way too heavy for me today. I need coffee, a shower, and to head into work so my brain is occupied.

I hope you all have a wonderful week! Thanks for reading.

Ciao for now,

TT

Yes!

2011-08-16T09:42:00.001-04:00

I Don't Date, I Dabble.

2011-08-16T00:25:00.000-04:00

Sometimes by choice, other times I feel I have no choice.

I said it before: the dude I thought I'd eventually be with til I was old, is set to marry someone not named Tina Tassels. Somehow over the years (10+ to be clear) through all sorts of garbage and goodness we've remained friends. I am confident and honest to say he knows more about me than anybody else in my life. In recent weeks our relationship has shifted and I'm feeling much better about the realization that he is not mine nor will he ever be to the fullest capacity. If I believe in love, I must believe that everything is panning out the way it is supposed to. Hardest physical & emotional stresses to work through but incredibly possible.

As for dating I haven't done it nearly as much as most people my age have. I don't have ex-boyfriend horror stories (thank God) but I also do not have lots of the experiences I fear will catch up to me later in life. On the regular, friends try to reassure me that they won't. I usually agree but as with most things, it is easier to give advice than to take it. During our young lives it is vital to be with ourselves, to realize who we are, who we want to be, and facing reality of what we might not have control over. I may have this one up over most people I know, but I still feel at a loss.

I'm pretty sure I wanna be married one day. Sadly I think I just wanna love someone so much and have them be ok with it. I don't feel comfortable saying I wanna be loved. That's an entirely different issue though. I say it over and over again: when I can afford a therapist I'll be asking all of you for recommendations HA!

I know I can be bitter too. I have far too many stories though that reinforce my frustration rather than help to heal it. I'm not looking to settle down necessarily, nor am I looking to sleep around but I will go with whatever flow feels good in the moment. Unfortunately most recent opportunities are with good people making bad decisions. This sucks. I have to be honest with myself and admit how selfish I am to open the door when certain someones knock.
If the boats'a rockin, don't com a'knockin!?

All that sappy shit aside, I'm incredibly positive and open to possibility. Like any normal girl I get nervous when a super cute boy is chatting me up but I always assume he's gay and thinks I'm fabulous (stereotype alert!). I have bad gay-dar. I love everyone though I think that's why my radar doesn't even give a shit. My second assumption is that his girlfriend or wife is lingering. Yes, this is an issue in my life. My question after all seemingly good conversation is then "Why didn't he ask for my number either?!" grrrrr haha this my life! But then, because I'm bold and throw caution to the wind I hunt them down and make contact again. Works to my advantage even if for only 1 night.

I think I'm writing all of this because I'm still sorta high from the weekend. Had a really fantastic Saturday night into Sunday afternoon. I don't remember the last time that happened. But this person too is fleeting...what is a girl to do? *sigh

I realize this is a long post of nonsense and it is a bit of random vomit. I'm hanging in my new bedroom, in my new apartment, in my new neighborhood, with my new state of mind. Everything's gonna be alright!

Have a great week!

Ciao for now,
TT

It's a New Dawn, It's a New Day...

2011-08-08T22:00:00.002-04:00

...and I'm feelin gooooooood!

Omg. Where to start!?
I've been slackin big time on the interweb, my bad yo, but if you follow me on Twitter or hang with me on Facebook you're pretty much up-to-date! This place here, that you're reading, is only to indulge and vent and ramble on and on about myself...

So rewind a bit! Holy cow, I haven't been here since June 16th. Almost 2 months. Shit. This will probably be a short post because I'm overwhelmed by what to share ha! I'm so dumb.

I'm gonna do a long story short vomit of a recap, brace yourselves:
JUNE 24th, I had my second show at Full Cup in Staten Island: Fly Me to the Moon. Amazing. Nick Williams singing and hosting while a keyboardist & drummer accompanied. The live music changed the entire feel of the show. I fell in love. It was more of a classic night with some twists. My costume/performance of "Temptation" was all fucked up because I decided to wear my red gloves for some pop of color but what I failed to pay attention to is that I have tassels on those gloves and huge sequins on my dress so my intended-to-be-sexy hand running down the chest move was faltered. Friends are not good critics "no one could tell" totally lying because I didn't hide it too well, but I also know it felt worse than it looked. THEN, my stupid bra got hooked onto my fishnet body suit, yet another piece I've never worn with this costume but decided too. At the end I was laughing and (without control) yelled "IT WASN'T SUPPOSED TO BE THIS WAY" hahahah The cast was so wonderful. I was honored to host newbies & vets alike. I also, once again, had a number of Jersey friends representing. So cool. The show ran much smoother when it came to raffle prizes too.AND I ALMOST FORGOT I SANG!!! Finally. it was such a relief. "Tina Tassels and her Two Hand Band" is something I'm hoping to expand on. My two hand band obviously implies that I lack a real band but instead I snap! hahah But there was no greater joy than asking an entire audience to help me out. Bringing a room of strangers together like that is a truly powerful, and in my opinion, important moment in any show. I have faith everyone loved it as much as I did.

JULY was actually super busy and exciting. Some of that fizzled for now but hopefully will will boil up again...will explain. July 9th, I co-producer/hosted the first show at the grand opening night of Paris Cabaret & Burlesque in Red Hook with my girl Kiki Valentine. Remember her? Yeah, I know!! Was so stoked to be working along side her. It was a hugely successful night and had, mid-week, been asked to plan another one for the coming Saturday. We had another wonderful show except in my opinion it was too rushed to be able to spread the word enough. Aside from all this, we have some really beautiful photos from both nights by Eric Kun. Check Night #2 out here. Unfortunately the owners are still trying to figure things out so to my knowledge there are no shows scheduled with Kiki and I. Majoy bummer but it's such beautiful venue that I am honored have hosted/performed there. Also on the weekend of July 16th, I was part of a fundraiser show that a friend of a friend was organizing. She is a playwright and producer and asked me to be part of it and I couldn't resist! We had a great turn out and all proceeds of the door & silent auctions went to help fund Ampersand: A Romeo & Juliet Story go check it out at the Fringe Festival in NYC! For this, in trying my best to keep with the theme I went to the funeral of Leonardo DiCaprio as Romeo (naturally) and calmly removed my funeral garb to Des'ree's "Kissing You" from the soundtrack. I love that song. It's ridic. While rehearsing it I started to cry because I was so committed but to play with the audience I did more smirks than intended! I would love to have a copy of this performance if anyone out in the world has one!! The following Monday, I kittened at Macao Trading Co. for Calamity Chang's Drunken Dragon Nights. Sizzling hot show in a beautiful venue with classic acts. I loved it and hope to do it again. Although what I could do without was a grown man meowing at me all night. Listen buddy, take your button down embroidered shirt and thinning hair somewhere else. *puke* I also got to intro Calamity which is HUGE for me. I look up to her so much (not physically ha!) that it was cool to say a few words and get the crowd ready for her. WERK! THEN, after a much needed break from life with my old friends in Atlantic City, Sunday the 24th I had my Kitty Nights Debut!!! What an honor to work with Fem Appeal. Since the second I met her I fell in love much to what everyone said I'd do! Kitty Nights usually has an audience of entertainers which makes it exciting to sorta kick back with your peers and enjoy each other without the outside world interfering. Selfish? No doubt. *wink*

So after those 2 months I MOVED!!! I'm so excited to call Bay Ridge my new neighborhood. My apt is amazing and huge and cheaper. (Found on craigslist, 1 roommate, Jersey girl, woot woot!) I've finally created a nice area for costumes and craft materials. and I have enough floor space to rehearse pretty much any act I can dream up, my room is THAT big. I feel like a born again virgin. The change has brought nothing but good vibes in every part of my life. I am feeling much freer than I have in the past few months. Change of location, roommates, streets, air is exactly what my mental, physical, and emotional health needed. Exhale.

I have a couple of exciting things coming up this month, so far I know I will be kittening yet again for Dangerous Curves Ahead. I LOVE this group of super gorgeous, hilarious, sweet, talented women. I am honored they're having me on board again! And that is THIS Saturday, August 10 at Superfine in Dumbo, Brooklyn - come hang! By the way, isn't that the weirdest picture ever? HA!

Friday, the 26th I will be back at Drive Thru Burlesque! Again, I love Lefty & Sizzle. They are incredibly kind and great cheerleaders. I don't know what act to do. I really need to work on my jellyfish BUT I also wanna revisit "Sometimes I Get a Good Feeling". I've been having good ideas how to make it way better. We'll see how it goes once I start rehearsing it though.

Wow. I think I'm done.
A couple scary things have happened in my family in the past 5 days. 2 car accidents, 1 is really bad and I'm currently waiting for updates. Superstition says these things happen in 3s...so I sit here patiently.

Welcome back -if you've been here before- and thanks again for reading. I promise I'll try to update more. I realize that I should write when I feel like writing doesn't matter what is or isn't going on. It's therapeutic. Just so everyone knows I've been steady working at Sephora. I'm slowly transitioning into makeup artistry which is really exciting...it doesn't really pay the bills but the babysitting does. Once I'm back on my feet I will feel much more confident looking into more production work - where I should be!

Hope to see most of you soon & at a show too!

Ciao for now,
TT

Check yo' Self!

2011-06-16T23:43:00.003-04:00

Hey you guyssss!

So. After my sad, anxiety filled couple of weeks of worry I've sat myself back up and taken the reigns. Bills are being paid, cell phones are NOT being downsized, and I've got lots of fun things coming to help ease my mind! I always joke that I am a list maker, whose list says "make a list". If I'm organized I feel better and more confident. I'm sure everyone is like this but I can admit the toll it takes on me when things are all out of sorts!

First off - not sure if I shared this before (and please don't say: go back and read your last post - get a life! haha) but I had the absolute honor of working with photographer Mark Mann. He's shooting a couple different projects with a graflex camera so we only took 8 SHOTS on film! Cannot wait to see the jpegs after he scans 'em but this is a snapshot from my phone of the screen LOL ghe-tto! I was so nervous and sorta embarrassed - not sure why - but my face says it all haha amazing! Check out his page & his accomplishments.

Recently I got to perform at Nurse Bettie's in the LES. I love that bar, you should definitely check it out! My girl Calamity Chang hosts a show there every Thursday and decided to have a NY School of Burlesque Class of 2011 show! It was SO great to be back with most of the gang from my first ever show. I see them pretty often but we haven't all performed together in awhile. I was nervous up until I got there. I realized the stage was about a foot bigger than I remembered but it's a whopping 4x5foot space HA! I did a new act, that sadly is really short but I love it's simplicity and slowness and short black gloves! I regret not wearing smaller bottoms (I wore high-waisted retro style ones). Because the act is so short I need more of a wow factor when the super long zipper is coming down. It's seriously like 2 feet long, my favorite part of the dress!

Also just a quick update: I've been performing bare legged more than with tights! Totally wild. Feelin great.

I'm pretty pumped thinking that I'm banking some regular acts. I love my jungle girl "Temptation" act & the newest "Go Slow" one. I'm hoping to make this jellyfish one really count too. Maybe the first song I use won't be the one but right now I'm feeling it!

Ok so I have some shows coming up, mark your calendars:

JUNE
Friday, June 24th: Fly Me to the Moon
This is my second production in Staten Island but this time the host (and my co-producer) Nick Williams, is also singing us through the oldies with a pianist and *fingers crossed* some drums! I'm excited to announce the lineup because we have some newbies, intermediates, & vets alike: Vada James, Lula Rouge D'Amour, Coco Masala, Evelyn Vinyl, Kita St.Cyr & I of course will be gracing the Full Cup stage.
$10, 9pm doors, Raffle prizes!

Wednesday, June 29: The Pink Room presents: Mulholland Drive Burlesque & Franny's FLICKS
I'll be working the door - come check one of the most successful new shows NYC has to offer!
Double feature for only $15, 8pm

JULY
Saturday, July 2nd: CupCakeGoth & Marinara Stardust present a Night of Art & Burlesque
Come check out great local artists with art on display, a burlesque show with DJ Powerchild spinning jams, and dancers providing a free spanking booth for attendees! A beautiful night of art, sexy ladies, and fun!!!
9pm
**Finally debuting a jellyfish act. I dreamed it would be my first act ever back in December but the thought was overwhelming and I felt too much pressure so now we'll see what happens! :)

Saturday, July 16th: WAITING FOR CONFIRMATION ON A SPECIAL EVENT FUNDRAISER AT A SUPER COOL LOCATION - Please stand by!

Sunday, July 24th: KITTY NIGHTS!!
MAKING MY DEBUT at this show & venue. I absolutely love Fem Appeal and I GUARANTEE that you will too after you watch her perform and get to chat with her. Incredible.
9pm $5

Friday, July 29th: Drive Thru Burlesque
I am so excited. I haven't been there in awhile - one of the first places that let me work the door then perform. Brought to you by Lefty Lucy (Miss Coney Island 2011) & Sizzle Dizzle. They couldn't be the sweeter to new girls in town!

Alright, laundry is done. I have to paint my nails and get to sleep asap! I had a long day - great day spent outside - but long as hell ma dudes!

Thanks for tuning in! Hope to catch you at a show!

Ciao for now,
TT

PS: In a couple of weeks, I'm heading back to my hometown for a weekend celebration called Patriotic Day. Complete with picnic, booze, and most likely skinny dipping. CANNOT WAIT!

PPS: I've been offered a complimentary corset from a company I shop from pretty often. HOW CRAZY!? Once all is finalized I will share - I am incredibly flattered. Opening that email was amazing!

Take It Easy Like You Should

2011-05-16T23:57:00.004-04:00

HIEEEEEE!

Omg it's been ages you guys!
I said it before and I'll say it again, I lay low when I'm feelin down. Shits been tough.

I'm being financially fucked by the man (not the one I want either ha!) I'm aware of the rule:

"don't talk about money because it means you don't have any"

Well, I don't have any and it's effecting my life in every way possible. I've become the New Yorker I've never wanted to be: I'm working just to live here. Not cool. Not fun. Not letting it happen for too much longer. Currently I'm making plans on how to downsize my life to maximize from minimum. (That sounds so cool) I prefer not to say "downgrade" because it has a not so positive ring to it. I'm trying SO hard to keep my chin so fuckin high, so stay tuned. My cell phone isn't gonna be so smart anymore, hopefully my cable channels are going bye-bye, and I'm even toying with the idea of moving...that's the hardest one to wrap my head around because I really really love where I live. Like really love.

I started working a couple of weeks ago and although not exactly my dream job, I'm really enjoying it and feeling good about being in a work place. I know a lot of people say it, but those of you that really know me, know that I am not myself if I'm not working in some capacity. I'm a hustler baby!

As for tonight, I'll enjoy my poor people food -snobby i know- and try to stay pumped about having a plan...

Onto stripping!

I was finally the sacrificial lamb at bomb diggity Calamity Chang's Beatles' Burlesque and it was nothing short of AMAZING! Sadly I have no pictures - I don't know if anyone does - but it was really a great night. Two friends from Jersey SM & RM even drove in for the show. I hadn't really seen any friends from NJ in a long time so it felt better than I can even explain to have them there. I did the song "I want you (She's so heavy)" and loved every freakin second of it. I was also the most nude I've ever been on stage ever and couldn't feel any more ok with it. No stockings - finished in a thong and pasties - game on! I'm finding the more I choreograph my routine the more confident I am. It's probably because I really love to dance and work my bod *wink

Um...do you see this suitcase? Full of pink, green, white?!? the only black in there is on my leopard print which hardly counts as black!! It's also one of my fave costumes now haha but anyway. Hello, I'm becoming brighter and more naked. I thought it'd take longer to feel this way and I guess it has. A good 27 years in fact! But I ain't mad atcha, whoever you are :)

Last Thursday, I also got the awesome opportunity to model for photographer Sebastian Smith as part of the "Live on-set" show at day 1 of the New York Photo Festival, produced by WIN Initiative. Amazing. Cannot wait to see final pics but I'm already in love with some of the behind scenes shots. I got my makeup done by awesome "magic hands" as I called him, Charles Edward. Love these pictures in particular. Thanks to Melanie McLean for hookin it up! She's my awesome photog friend from Rutgers who contacted me about this project, that actually has potential for a future HUGE shoot for a magazine. Additionally I'm working on getting some final images retouched that she took toooo!! You can see some of the outtakes here.

This Thursday, I am making a cameo in the feature film Carl(a). I'm nervous but so excited. To my knowledge, as of now, I am playing an aggressive hooker. And not aggressive in the street talk sense - a hooker who has AIDS and is aware of it and continues to spread it. I might be fighting someone. Oh god *bites nails* haha!

Also coming up is another Pink Room show! This time it's Wild at Heart and I'll be working the door. Be there! These shows are extremely fun, extremely packed, and have a great cast! OMG! I almost forgot I also got to do the first Franny's Flicks, that acted as the previews to last month's Blue Velvet show. I did a Sandra Dee act from Grease, which quickly turned into Bump-n-Grind by R. Kelly. Werk!

Thursday, June 6th is confirmed for Nurse Betty. Holy shit. This is one venue I'm terrified of performing in. The platform is small and the audience is literally 2 feet away from you. Come check out the FREE show at 10pm - great bar. Gets packed, come early and hang out!!

Also planning the next show with Nick Williams in Staten Island. We're taking it back to the music and shows that we love and would have gone to if we were alive in the 40s & 50s. Mark your calendars: Friday, June 24th "Fly Me to the Moon" The lineup has changed, Nick is going to be singing and perhaps I'll have a tune prepared too...we'll see! Featuring some newbies and vets alike!

Ok, I need to wash my dishes and get to sleep. Can't wait to share my downSIZING endeavors/tips/tricks/whatevers with you all! Thanks for reading..

Ciao for now,

PS: And old friend is getting married Friday in NJ. I cannot wait to get there and see my people. <3

How I'm Feeling Today *le sigh

2011-04-20T13:42:00.000-04:00

A Quickie in the Broom Closet!

2011-04-15T17:46:00.001-04:00

OK so I'm not writing about a steamy sess I had - mind ya biz - but I am writing with a quick update because I've officially become the worst blogger ever! Frankly I don't write because I don't have anything to write about *sad face* ha! jk jk

No sad face here, just trying to keep my eye on the prize!

1- Started a new job today. Hooray!
After seeing my schedule though I'll be missing my family's Easter gathering (ugh. I'm tight with my family especially when it comes to eating ha! this news sucked). I haven't worked steadily for the past year which in the beginning was really sweet and has now turned bitter therefore it's good to be back in the game. And there are some exciting girly perks with this particular place so I'll take it for now!

2- I'm preparing 2 NEW ACTS!
*My next show is on Wednesday, April 27 with Franny Fluffer and posse!
I'll be part of Franny’s FLICKS which is a "cinema-inspired burlesque show" that will happen prior to The Pink Room's Blue Velvet night!
Get all the info here
*After that, it will finally be my turn to have my cherry popped at the ever exciting Beatles Burlesque by my girl Calamity Chang and the band Ticket to Ride (right)on Monday, May 9! I'm beyond pumped. I've yet to perform with a live band and at Public Assembly!

3- Tomorrow I have a meeting with Nick Williams (my super talented Staten Island friend!) about a collaboration for Friday, June 24th at Full Cup. I have a feeling it's gonna be a show NOT to be missed. We're takin it back to golden days of music. If you know either one of us, you know what tunes we're usually listening to! Please stand by for details...I'm excited for what might be happening at this show!

Sooo I have a few interested venues that I need to go check out and hopefully can start having a regular show. I know I can do it, it's peanuts ha! Getting back on my feet financially is a great feeling..it's just gonna take a little time to feel like my 100% self.

I had a super nice visit from my mom on her birthday last Sunday. We had a wonderful brunch and great conversation just catching up on all sorts of things. I think we both needed it. I can't say enough how perfect of a day it was.

It's Friday night, I'm on the couch after my first day of work (which was great!), and have no plans more than laundry, painting my nails and enjoying some of the champagne and strawberries I have in the fridge. (Relax, the champagne was gratis and technically the berries were too because my mom hooked me up haha!) I can't afford to go out, not to where I'd wanna go anyway (shows mainly), so I have to take a deep breath and just suck it up. The days will only get better!

Sorry for my lack of hyper exciting news but something is better than nothing, right?
Until next time...

Ciao for now,
TT

Sometimes I Get a Good Feeling

2011-03-28T17:57:00.003-04:00

So I have to say - it was a HIT!
Meat My Friends - the first installment of a show I produced on my own - was just amazing.

My cast, the audience, the venue. All of it! I'm just gonna say it, I'm so proud of myself for taking it on and pulling it off and am now working on doing it again. People don't say "I'm proud of myself" enough and we should be allowed to!

Staten Island couldn't have been more kind and grateful. I received the nicest of compliments from strangers in the audience, the "thank yous" were overflowing. I am honored to have brought them such an experience and will be DOING IT AGAIN!

I was also super pumped to be partially hosting in a bright "Barbie" pink dress and then revealing my pink, white, & celery (ha!) colored costume. Totally girly, fringe-erfiic and pearls tooo! I really love this costume and for me it was a bigger deal to wear than any of the other ones. I really want to start working on an act that I've always wanted to be my first. It has a huge prop involved with the most beautiful of color schemes it's just gonna take some work to make it exactly how I want it! This is getting easier and feeling better/more right than ever..

If you missed the show or are too far away to have made it - a good friend of mine recorded the ENTIRE show! I'm working on a little reel of it so you can have a taste ;) I WILL POST WHEN IT'S READY TO GO! ha! Or maybe I'll have a viewing party with my close peeps who couldn't make it? Hmm...

HUGE THANKS TO:

MY CAST OF BEAUTIFUL DEDICATED GIRLS,

*BIG DADDY DELUXE*

and

JAY MILLER!

As a result some really great propositions are coming out of the show. I'm flattered by the response and cannot wait to see what's coming up. We have another Staten Island show in the works which I hope will be an album release of a friend's band. Perhaps there will be a visit FROM a west coast troupe this summer. I've told the universe several times how much I miss LA and it's listening. The list of people I am meeting and chatting with is getting that much cooler. Stay tuned!

Thanks for checking in and making me feel like I'm doing things right. The support from friends inside AND outside of the burlesque/performance community is truly overwhelming. I am endlessly grateful..

Ciao for now,
TT

This is YOUR life.

2011-03-28T13:35:00.001-04:00

It's really that simple, this is what you have: the here and now so do what you will with it.

I'm so over everyone being a victim of circumstance. I'm over it because I was pretending to be one for years. There were always excuses why things weren't happening in my life and although mainly financial (and still are, fuck money!) there are so many other little wonderful things I decided to change and step over to get where I am. It feels fantastic. You should try it out.

I have to say a biggup to my fore-mothers (see what I did there?) We have all been rowing the same self-conscious-about-my-body-and-self boat for years but its getting easier for us newbies to be confident when we have amazing figures (literally) to look up to! This stems from my experience at the World Famous *Bob* One Man Show. I won tickets on facebook! She says it took her years to get where she is emotionally comfortable showing her body and I have to be grateful that it really only took me months. I, because of the women I look up to, decided to stop letting the world's discomfort about MY body dictate what I did with it.

Not to praise the sadly maniacal Charlie Sheen but he said: "Nike doesn't say 'Just Try It Out' no, it says 'Just Do It'" - he has a point.
Start small, but start.
I wish you the freedom you deserve!

Ciao for now,
TT

I just put the coffee on..

2011-03-06T14:27:00.000-05:00

Good Morning! It's Sunday, I can't feel my legs and it's awesome!

I know I've been MIA for a bit. It's the norm. When I'm feeling anxious or nervous about things I'm not the type to freak out, running around like a chicken without a head, but rather I keep quiet, keep indoors, and eat meals alone. Leave me alone, ha!

Why am I feeling anxious you ask?
Maybe it's because I'M PRODUCING MY FIRST EVER LIVE SHOW AND AM FREAKING OUT!?#$@
I was also mentally preparing for an audition for a VH1 & Suicide Girls collaboration for a reality tv show!

So, the audition was yesterday and it's why I can't feel my legs! It was SO much fun. I showed up and there were 1/2 naked skinny fake-baked chicks dancing in every corner. Immediately I was nervous. After checking in I changed into my costume sans dress and strutted my shit in a lacey full body stocking (my new fave accessory), highwaisted panties (ha! there's that word again) and a lace bra with my leopard pasties ready to go. I told myself if I'm gonna start doing these things, I'm gonna do them 100% committed. I checked in and got my number.

The entire process was quite unorganized. From the emails not having location/time details to my having to make it clear several times that there are new girls showing up and we haven't been taught the routine yet. I expected more girls to be there but it was just under 100 of us. Finally the choreographer came back down we were taught a short routine of a few 8counts to the chorus of Rhianna's S&M. It felt really good to not only be dancing but learning specific steps, counting, etc...I've missed this since my cheerleading days ended.

At one point a producer came in, cleared the stage where everyone was practicing and asked who knows about the Suicide Girls brand and wants to talk a bit about it? About 10 girls went to the front and waited for their on camera interview. I was sitting and texting when I heard "Number 79, come here for a second," It was the producer waving me over...

Prod.: I have to say, you caught my eye just sitting there. Frankly these girls are smaller than you, how are you so comfortable being voluptuous in a room like this?
Me: Honestly, I was ready to leave about 5mins ago for that exact reason. I think I've just come to a point where I'm sick of feeling uncomfortable, so I'm still here!

We proceeded to chat about suicide girls, fetishes, and what I do. My interview ended with me singing "Happy Birthday" as Marilyn Monroe. HAHAHA! I didn't sign any release forms so I don't think it's legal for them to air it but it could land in front of the right eyes. You never know! My audition went as well as it could. Most girls, even the best dancers, forgot the routine and ended up free-styling longer than the 15seconds they asked for. My free-styling consisted of some teasing then removing my bra and twirling for the panel of VH1 & Suicide Girls producers. Hooray! Overall their use of "burlesque" in the casting information should be censored. It was definitely a search for an alternative group of Pussycat Doll-like girls. The didn't ask for singing as part of the auditions process but a form we filled out did ask what kind of a singer you were on a scale of 1-10. Although, the girls that were asked to stay behind were NOT the girls I would have ever imagined being picked. Reality TV is strange in that way, you just never know what they're looking for!

Overall I had a wonderful experience and it was a personal boost to keep going to more auditions. I met some super talented NY dancer/performers that are going into the "MEAT MY FRIENDS" rolodex. What is that you newbies might be asking? Meat My Friends is my endeavor to showcase the talented people I already know and am meeting along the way. The 1st installment is happening IN 2 WEEKS!! All the info can be found on the facebook invite! It's an easy commute from Manhattan so don't be scared! Bring your friends, ride the ferry, enjoy a night of UNofficially themed "Breaking our Cabin Fevers" burlesque, live music by Big Daddy Deluxe, all being emceed by Staten Island's main man Jay Miller!

Mark your calendars for Saturday, March 19, Doors at 10p, $10, at Full Cup
There will be raffles to be won and go-go girls to enjoy with the band!
I cannot anticipate a greater first show to produce. I've got so many ideas in the works and scouting venues to host at. This is, what I hope, the beginning of a really exciting year. I thought last year was great but I think this one might top it!

Tomorrow night I am kittening for the first time!! I never really offered to do it because the thought of it made me really nervous. It's much easier, contrary to what you might think, to dance around and strip than to stand on stage scantily clad bending over picking things up. Ha! All the over-the-top awesome show details are here! Honored to share the stage for the first time with Clams Casino! She is part of the glorious, hot bodied troupe: Dangerous Curves Ahead: Burlesque on the Go-Go!

I've been working on a costume that was inspired more by the trim I found than anything else. It's pink, bright, glorious pink. AND WHITE! Not black. Cray cray right? I'm in love with it and am trying to figure out when and why to wear it outside of my living room. Also in the works is a new routine. I can't seem to pin down the right music!

Off to listen to tunes til my ears bleed and I feel inspired once again. Thanks again for reading. Things have been up and down lately. I've been looking for a steadier day job to pay for my night job. Hopefully something is coming through this week! *fingers crossed* for all things good for both me and you :)

Ciao for now,
TT

To Know Him Is to Love Him

2011-02-23T09:41:00.002-05:00

And by "him" I mean YOURSELF!

I wanted to write a bit about how important it is to surround yourself with people that inspire you. People that are not just following dreams but living them - no they're not the same. People can follow for years and still tip-toe around what they truly want to be doing, believe me, it's the story of my life!! I'm not here to say it's super easy, though it's easier than you imagine...

This past Sunday, I was part of The Kiki Valentine Show. I was surrounded by a cast in which every person could not have been more different and amazing in their own way. The musicians were jaw dropping and the funnest fact about them is that they had never played together as one. I was truly in the presence of genius talent. With every wail on the trumpet and pluck on the upright bass, I was shaking my head in disbelief that this was my life right then and there.

I don't know if I'm supposed to say it, but I messed up my ending. I missed a cue in the music and rushed to get my bra off HA! A guy friend of mine joked, "any girl rushing to take her bra off is not a bad thing," thanks! I didn't end up adding a few funny bits as I had hoped but nerves and my overly sexified side took hold and had me wrap my leg around a guy's neck and had another sniff my filthy vagina glove. (I'm laughing so hard at "vagina glove")

I got to enjoy Butt Kapinsky again, whose work I truly admire. She is just hilarious, on spot and a CLOWN! I've always wanted to clown, especially after working for Slava's Snowshow a few years ago. The study and work behind it is so much more advanced than most people think. She's having a show on Friday, April 1st: The Butt Kapinsky Goodbye Show at Big Sky Works in Brooklyn. Details to come!

So to say the least, from arriving pre-show and soaking it all in post, I was proud to be at Ella Lounge that night. I get this feeling after all my shows but Sunday night hit me hard. I love NYC and these shows happening behind unsuspecting doors. I finally had the privilege of working with the ever-inspiring Kiki Valentine and hope to do it again over time. She never ceases to amuse, educate, and motivate me all at once! <3

I hope that you too see, feel and then DO something you truly love one day!

That said, TONIGHT I will be working the door at The Pink Room - David Lynch Burlesque, the first show brought to you by Franny Fluffer! I have a feeling it's gonna be a packed house so come a bit early: 9:30p, $10, Parkside Lounge. TOMORROW NIGHT I'll be part of the 7-8p Raw Talent portion of Jonny Porkpie's Bad Ideas presents The Legs Malone Show: WWJPD? $12, 7-10p, Bowery Poetry Club.

SAVE THE DATE: SATURDAY, MARCH 19, MEAT MY FRIENDS

Have a great rest of your week & always enjoy the days!

Ciao for now,

Bare Legs? Bare Legs!

2011-02-16T09:34:00.001-05:00

So it happened. Friday night. I did NOT wear any sort of stockings on stage and no heels (or shoes for that matter). Prepping for it was a breeze, I didn't even think twice! The TIME'S UP: Love Your Lanes Valentine's Dance Party/show was GREAT but seeing pics I'm not feeling so good about it now. I know heels always make a woman's legs look better and on stage they're even more important but for my most current act I felt bare feet went with the theme a bit more. Looking back now though, I should have at least worn heels. The main reason I didn't wear them was because practicing the movements I wanted to do were tougher with heels and imaging my jitters on stage just made the idea of having balance in front of an audience impossible. Must. Work. On. It. Here's a picture by a party goer :)

The stage was different than most others, it was 2 tiers which for my performance was fun to play with. The pictures are a bit unflattering because of how close the audience was and their POV. Whatevs! The night was a blast, all the performers were so amazing to share the stage with and the party-goers were so inviting and accepting, I felt like they were giving me a hug while on stage. Overall a good time and an honor to be a part of it!

*Here we are watching someone perform! If you don't know, sexy Miss Pacman is Iris Explosion and that fine, neon, feathered mama is Darlinda Just Darlinda!

The weekend came and went like usual. I had the worst cramps ever, so I sat home with a bottle of red and enjoyed some me time.

Then came Monday, Valentine's Day. I'm single and try to enjoy it but even if I didn't I could careless about the holiday. I know most of my single friends freak out and "hate" V-day. Frankly, I think they're being dramatic. Wake up, go to work, make yourself dinner, watch your normal tv shows and call it a day. That's it. That aside, I hope you had a lovely day and if you are with someone or someoneS (hey it's 2011!) I wish that you had a wonderful, romantic night. Although my brother gets credit for saying it best: Make sure you kiss your girlfriend today, and your wife too! (That's my brother after he split his stupid face open while surfing! Surfboard -1, Georgie -0)

Unlike those sad puppies that stayed home crying, I took my ass to Beatles' Burlesque at Public Assembly, Calamity's monthly show (I know I've mentioned it before) and it was a blast! Two girls that are fellow recent NYSB grads made their debut! One as the sacrificial lamb and one as a go-go dancer/stage manager. It was SO much fun as usual. It was my first time seeing this back room/stage and it was perfect! I highly recommend catching at least one of the shows if you can. NYC's Beatles cover band Ticket To Ride, ups the entertainment ante!

This week I'm prepping for Sunday night's The Kiki Valentine Show! It's my first time working with her and I cannot wait! There's no better sound than live jazz...
Come out and see us at Ella Lounge 8:30p doors, 9p show! You can get all the info here and performer bios here. I hope to see at least some of you there because there's no telling what's gonna happen!! Oh, and Monday is President's Day, some of you will have off from work, hooray!

Thanks again for stopping by.

Ciao for now,
TT

Need Plans?

2011-02-10T17:23:00.002-05:00

I guess I can make posts like this regularly if/when shows are coming up whether or not I'm in them doesn't matter. If I'm definitely going to a show I will let you know!

FRIDAY, 2/11 (TOMORROW!) - TIME'S UP VALENTINE'S DANCE - I'M PERFORMING!:
Invite - $5 if you ride, $10 if you don't
Doors 9:30p
The Living Theater 21 Clinton St., Manhattan
TIME'S UP! is a grassroots environmental group that uses educational outreach and direct action to promote a more sustainable, less toxic city. For more than 20 years, TIME'S UP! has worked to educate people about the environmental impacts of everyday decisions, from the food we buy to the means of transportation we use.

SATURDAY, 2/12 - There are a couple show's I'd like to see but not sure if I can make them:
Sweet Sweet Saturday Burlesque - Brooklyn
Crazy good roster at this show!!
NERDLESQUE! - Brooklyn
I have yet to see one of these and another friend is a regular here!
CABARET LUXE: Gypsy's Love Spell - Manhattan
I love gypsies. Some friends might be in the city from out of town and too lazy to get to Brooklyn so I might bring them here! Love some of these girls (that I've seen) and I also love the Parkside Lounge, as I've said numerous times.

MONDAY, 2/14 (VALENTINE'S DAY!) - BEATLES BURLESQUE

Invite - $10
Doors 9p
Public Assembly 70 N.6th Street, Brooklyn
Calamity - I mean YOKO Chang once again presents her monthly show with live music by Ticket to Ride, a guest singer, and dancing girls! 2 of my friends - and fellow recent grads of NYSB - will be there: 1 performing and 1 go-going, hooray!
Harlow's Hide-a-way
I have to get to one of these stat!

SUNDAY, 2/20 - THE KIKI VALENTINE SHOW - I'M PERFORMING!
Invite - $12
Doors 8:30p
Ella Lounge 9 Avenue A, Manhattan
Um yeah, you do NOT want to miss this show ever. Kiki brings back a new monthly show, gathering the talents of NYC's performance artists. I'm making my debut and am so honored!

WEDNESDAY, FEB 23 - THE PINK ROOM: DAVID LYNCH BURLESQUE - DOOR GIRL!
Invite - $10
Doors 9:30
Parkside Lounge 317 East Houston, Manhattan
Franny Fluffer says: Please join us for the very first production of The Pink Room - David Lynch Burlesque! On Wednesday, February 23rd, the eve of Laura Palmer's death, come see Twin Peaks-inspired acts!

THURSDAY, FEB 24 - THE LEGS MALONE SHOW: WWJPD? - I'M PERFORMING!
Invite - $12
7-8 RAW TALENT
Myself and some fellow new comers will be revin up your happy hour. Swing by after work and take a chill pill on us ;) I'm super excited to be a part of this night!

SAVE THE DATE: SATURDAY, MARCH 19
TINA TASSELS PRESENTS: MEAT MY FRIENDS

With Arms Outstretched

2011-02-03T23:59:00.003-05:00

When sharing in class, one of the best English teachers my tiny NJ school district ever had to offer would not allow us to precede our writing with a disclaimer. He wanted us to be courageous and proud of our work no matter what or who it was about, how it was written, or how it might be misconstrued. I'm sharing this because I'm feeling the desire to write an overdue disclaimer. I think about what it would say and it seems so moronic but the itch is there because I feel like some people may be misunderstanding my writing. Let me reread my first entry...please hold...Fuck it. It's all there. I didn't set out to educate anyone about the world of burlesque and expose the shows I go to as good or bad. I just felt like I wanted to share the personal struggles I'd be enduring on my journey into a very physically stripped down world and obviously the entries wouldn't be mere recaps of classes & shows. Aaaand, I just snuck in the disclaimer. hah I'm a jerk!

Anyway I had a really great past weekend and it made me take a deep breath for all angles of my life. I've been embracing these new and exciting things happening but some days it's hard to concentrate on the good. I'm getting over some huge things and trying my best (sometimes) to move on. The guy I thought I'd be with at this point in my life, will marry someone not named Tina Tassels (ha!), my real dad has been gone for 3 years come March 11th (which I'm still furious over), and I'm actually a struggling performer in NYC like I've always dreamed of being and it's not that fun! grrrr...All of that said, I'm trying - probably my hardest ever - to stay as positive as I can. The list of good in my life is far lengthier than the not good. I have plenty to be grateful for and will keep kickin and screamin trying to figure out what to do tomorrow.

Friday, I had the shoot with my friend Melanie McLean as I mentioned I would. It took me to Jersey City for the first time and I LOVED it. We had a really good time, got some great shots, and it was nice to be working with a friend! There's an outtake/preview.

Earlier on Friday, a friend posted info about a commercial spot for the LOGO network. I emailed the contact and within hours was cast for Saturday's shoot...how cool!? I ended up meeting some amazing people, from all different backgrounds and industries that I'll definitely be keeping in touch with. That said the commercial is for a really amazing awareness campaign. I am honored to be a part of it and once I have a copy I'll share!

On Sunday, I made it a point to head to NJ to have dinner with my rents and to get my hurr did. My roots were growing in so bad! Now it's back to my "natural" color *wink ha!

Before heading to Dirty Jerz though, I had the absolute honor of taking World Famous *BOB*'s Ultimate Self-Confidence workshop. Holy shit. I refuse to share anything about it because EVERYONE should take it (coed classes are in the works, for now it's women only). We laughed and I cried haha but it's really what got me in the reflective mood. She has a one man show in town right now but I am countin pennies over here so I decided to pass on it and not beat myself up. *sigh She is the best and you should learn more about her here.

I ended up having a crazy huge experience on Tuesday but it's extremely personal and I'm not ready to share it, if I even do! Some of you will hear about it in person others might just read about it in a one act play form haha! I'm sneaky.

This weekend I know I will be sewing & working on routines. On Friday, I'm going to check out Calamity Chang's new weekly show Room 69 (Missed last week's premiere because of my photo shoot!) and from there I'll shoot over to Drive Thru Burlesque! The lineups are sizzlin at both spots. Right now, I have to pick and choose my social events so please forgive my not showing up to all/other shows... I'm trying!

I'm excited to say that my show in Staten Island is moving along. Once I have the poster ready I'll share the official advertisement. For now: SAVE THE DATE - SATURDAY, MARCH 19 - MEAT MY FRIENDS!

Next Friday you can catch myself & some super talented ladies dancing at the Time's Up Valentine's Dance Party & Bike Ride. The invite is here.

Have a great weekend!

Ciao for now,

The Moneymaker!

2011-01-27T23:03:00.003-05:00

Here it is!!
Friday, January 14, 2011 Drive Thru Burlesque at Parkside Lounge. I had SUCH a blast that night and was part of this CRAZY cast of women and men who are so talented and gorgeous and diverse. It was truly an honor above all else! Thank you to Sizzle Dizzle & Lefty Lucy for having me. I'd love to go back!

I felt SO good and I actually am enjoying watching it again.
Not sure how this quality is, if I get a better version I'll switch em out. Aaahhh I'm really excited! haha
Thank you to Franny Fluffer for this video <3 and my awesome friend RP for filming us!

Oh man, there's the thong and all ha! sorry to those of you who do NOT enjoy this. Your problem, not mine
:)

So we've just had a whole bunch of snow again, all week I've been staying in and embellishing costumes for new acts. Additionally I have a photo shoot tomorrow to get some new portraits done with Melanie McLean! We went to college together but because of facebook got in better touch. She actually came out to Drive Thru and we finally got to chat then! You can check out her work here!

So I mentioned going to see a place this past Monday. I did and the date is finalized!! Saturday, March 19 I will be producing my first show at Full Cup in Staten Island (more info about the place is here). Things are still being sorted out but at this very second, including myself there will be 10 performers and am shutting the door on anymore. CAN YOU BELIEVE IT?!

I've got my host locked in and raffles are being made!
Still waiting to hear back from a rockabilly band that will make the night that much better. I am feeling so proud and flattered that these people are even interested. So far, so good and I think this will be the best place and time to give my first go at making such an event happen. I know I've produced other things but this will be my biggest and most personal project so far!
Stay tuned! Once everything is finalized I'll share the cast info...

TINA TASSELS PRESENTS: MEAT MY FRIENDS
Saturday, March 19, 10p
Full Cup, Staten Island
$10 at the door
Hope to see you gorgeous people there!

Ciao for now,
TT

PS: A picture of me from that same Friday night. I was reluctant to post but now I love it and am in all my glory ha! Thanks again for reading..XoXo

2 Girls, 1 Cup

2011-01-23T18:01:00.005-05:00

WAIT! NO! Freaks! (I know, you know what that is hahah)
2 Shows, 1 girl
2 New routines, 1 girl
2 Boobs, 1 girl - score!

Sorry I’ve been so lazy, every time I sat down to write I was sidetracked and couldn’t really concentrate so I didn’t want to waste my time, as well as yours (if you’re out there)!

I’ve had a really great week! Last Friday I had my first official show at Drive Thru Burlesque. I was the newbie, therefore had to start. At first I was bummed because of the pressure of being an opener but that same pressure pumped me up. After a few minutes, I felt proud to start because I was also debuting a new routine that for some reason I really love. It was at Parkside Lounge which I have fallen in love with and I felt really great throughout the entire act. I had a great show of friends, including a couple that haven’t seen me perform. It’s always nice having at least 1 person in the audience but when you have a bizzillion you carry endless thanks in your heart.

So I’m waiting for the video of this performance, I don’t care what it actually looks like on film (even though I probably should), I will share it. I felt so good that night, I refuse to let anything bring down that high! For you regular readers, I WORE THE THONG! I did. And what's so funny is that I tried my entire costume on at home and didn't think twice about it. I felt so great and confident it's like I forgot about my struggle over it. I did wear it over my fishnets, duh, and it did cause a bit of an aesthetic problem in that the butt floss part was off center from gliding over the tights. I know I need to buy a specific pair of tights or adjust them to be a bit between my cheeks. LOL I cannot believe I'm writing this. Anyway, I wore it, felt great, and will probably do it again. I'm still not quite sure when I'll be ready to go bare legged. I finally got those stockings (i mentioned in the last blog) in the mail too and love how I feel in them but don't know if I'd feel the same on stage in a room full of people. We shall see!

Saturday night came and I was a last minute add to the Student Showcase at Bowery Poetry Club! I did the same new routine but totally messed up. I felt like garbage afterward. At first I wasn’t sure if the audience could tell I was off but then my face said it all. I DO have a video of this night but I refuse to share. Sorry. I can’t even stand watching it all the way through. Blah! I do, though, want to give a huge thank you to my friends Bex (whose fitness blog & vlogs you can check out here) and Jenita for showing up AS A SURPRISE!! I didn’t think any of my friends could make it (which is fine, I have NO expectation of having someone at every show, that’s just silly) but when I peeked out from backstage and caught them with their cheesy smiles and waving hands, a calm definitely came over me. *hugs*

Unfortunately, Sunday morning I woke up to an insulting and pretty ridiculous email about copying and costume/color choice. I planned on writing about it, but what I would be defending and explaining is SO absurd. I feel I’d only be making myself look just as silly. Over it! Chin up.

Fuck the cold, the only good thing coming out of it is sitting home on a Friday night and making all sorts of pasties! A couple of them are for 2 new routines I’m working on and the rest are practice runs with different materials. I figure I can give them to friends to play with. Also I did make a specific pair to gift that are AMAZING but I don’t want to post a pic of them and ruin it. I cannot wait for her to open the box *huge sneaky grin*
This pastie is missing it's pair because unknowingly, I didn't buy enough trim BUT it is for a new routine I'm SUPER pumped about.

I finally got my ass to a Wasabassco Burlesque show (learn more about it here). I’ve heard only great things and they have shows 2x a month, I think. Also, they are usually at some of my favorite venues in Manhattan and Brooklyn. Last night’s show was at Union Hall right in my hood. I’ve always wanted to see this bar (which has a full size bocce court - is that what its called? Pit maybe? Haha), so it was a great way to kill 2 birds with 1 stone - oh! That stays within our theme. Nice.

Some of my friends met me there, which was great, but I was gonna go regardless and bought my ticket in advance. Luckily I did because the show SOLD OUT, amazing. The adorable Sapphire Jones was the host as well as a performer in addition to Ginger Brown, Precious Little, Bettina May, & Nasty Canasta. Overall consensus from my friends was “good show but I wish there were more boobs and hips” and by more they meant bigger. Ha! The girls were so gorgeous but mostly tall and thin with smaller curves. I was about to write “real women”, but I hate saying that so I will never. Sorry to some of my big girls, I know it is a commonly used phrase, but I refuse to say it. I’m not here to separate the quality of women by size. Isn’t that what we’re all fighting against?

It immediately made me curious though, as to whether or not Wasabassco puts bigger girls in his shows. Some names on the roster prove he does! So I’ve written to Doc because I didn’t get a chance to chat with him last night. We’ll see what happens! I would just love to perform at City Winery *drool*
Added Note: For people totally clueless about my big girl curiosity, I have heard that there are producers who would prefer to keep their girls smaller. It is totally fine. It's a casting, and some people might not fit the role! Additionally I have no clue who they are.

Now I’ve got to jump in the shower and will be heading out to see Kiki Valentine’s NEW Sunday Show: The Kiki Valentine Show. Ha! I love the name. A variety of performance art that includes burlesque dancers, musicians, singers, etc...I am just as curious as you are! I’m not anxious to be out in the cold but I do know the trek will be worth it. (Get more info about the show here, but you need a secret password to get the entire low-down sorry! mwahah)

Stay tuned for upcoming shows OMG! I almost forgot to mention, I am going to meet a venue owner tomorrow to talk about possibly producing a show *gulp* CAN YOU BELIEVE IT!? So you definitely have to stick around to hear more about that. Once the ball starts rolling I’m gonna start spreading the word. My dream has always been to reach a place in my career where I could work with my amazingly talented friends and it might be happening sooner than I had ever imagined. *fingers, toes, everything crossed*

Thanks for reading and East coast friends keep warm, West coast friends fuck off HA!

Ciao for now,
TT

PS: I've done a lot of *actions* tonight hahaha

Trying my Best to Love Me!

2011-01-14T00:34:00.001-05:00

I had to write to get some things off of my chest. As lots of you know it can be very helpful if not therapeutic to write. People are intimidated, especially by blogs, because they feel their writing has to be “good”. First of all, I am not a good writer, ESPECIALLY on here. I prefer to type the way I speak. I have the potential to write for a literary audience but frankly I haven’t the energy to focus on those goals just yet. So here goes. I like to think that you, the reader, feel like I’m having a conversation with you alone because that’s definitely how I feel when writing!

I’m trying my hardest to work thru some things with each performance and this entire experience in general. I’ve mentioned a couple of them before, but I’m gonna go down the list again:

1- I will NOT go bare legged. Even if I wear some cheap fishnets that might as well be my nude leg, I still feel much better with some sort of barrier. My major issue is with my inner thighs and in close second my cellulite. This is so silly bc fishnets will not do much, if anything, for either but I definitely feel sexier in them. I’m trying to work on the thigh highs that sit high up on the leg. I haven’t made myself a pair yet so I’m not sure how well they would even stay on. Thigh highs tend to roll right down. I am though, waiting for a pair of those sexy garter stockings where they are connected at the top but separate into the thigh highs, make sense? There's a picture right there just in case not, haha!

2 - I will NOT wear a thong. I’ll just put this out on the table: I don’t wear them in my personal life nor have I ever had the desire to, but on stage I think it’d be fun. It’s definitely a mountain to get over. I DO have one prepared for my new act I’m debuting this weekend but I don’t know if I’ll be able to wear it. I guess we’ll see what I decide!

3-(most current) I will NOT use bright colored costumes. This somewhat spills over from my off-stage life. Super embellished, bright, fun costumes are scary for me to wear. I tend to wear a lot of black anyway but sometimes it’s definitely just a slimming go-to. I think this is happening in my costume decisions. Honestly I feel like some bright fluffy chubby girl prancing around like cotton candy that doesn’t look so cute whenever I attempt to stray from something mostly black. Just sayin. But I do love color and I fantasize of a mint green and bubble gum pink costume. As of now, I foresee a Valentine’s day act as my first brightly colored get-up. Hot pink & black (duh) but cute wittle hearts everywhere hah! This rant is stemming from this week, because I’ve been trying different pieces on for my new act. And although the black skirt I probably will wear looks and feels fuckin awesome when I wear it, I also secretly love that it is just plain black with no beads, no fringe, no nothing. Just tight and sexy black.

Note: I am saying all of this in regard to how I’m feeling at this moment. Nothing is ever definite especially when it comes to performing. Never say never, right? Right.

There aren’t any rules about costumes and acts or anything really just don’t mess up the stage and if you’re ever not sure about something ask the producer(s) ahead of time so you’re not panicked last minute. I personally feel the pressure though to have a big, bold, extra sparkly costume or it means you're lacking. So with all that said, I’m SUPER excited for tomorrow. My nerves are actin up a bit tonight but compared to last time I am feeling much more confident in every way possible.

REMINDERS:
FRIDAY - Drive Thru Burlesque 8pm $10 Parkside Lounge, Manhattan
SATURDAY - NYSB Student Showcase 8pm $7 Bower Poetry Club, Manhattan

Hope to see some of you there!

Ciao for now,
TT

Love that Sunny West Coast!

2011-01-10T19:29:00.002-05:00

At this point in my life I’ve been to Los Angeles 3x. I still can’t get over it. For years I’ve dreamed of coming out here and now I feel like a semi-pro. To make the trips better I’ve been fortunate to be working while there. I get to make a bit of money AND enjoy the sun, leaving dirty snow in NYC.

This trip was by far the best! Our shoot went really well, it was a blast to see our crew again, and I hit the town to finally enjoy time with my few friends living there.

*Fuck Turbulence - taking a 5 minute break - I’m in the sky btw.

Usually I give myself only enough time for work. I have dinner & a few drinks at the end of the day but afterward call it a night. I know if I am to stay longer I will spend much more money so I hop a plane right back to NY and keep some dough in my pockets. This time I said FTW and stayed the weekend through!

My 1st adventure was meant to be a burlesque show - would have been my first on the west coast - at The Edison in downtown LA. A friend of mine, LN (whom I’ve actually only met once before at the Dude Ranch - we have a mutual friend), knew I’d love this place. I was speechless when I walked in. The Edison is a renovated petroleum factory that still houses old generators & coal oven filled brick walls. It is a beautiful speak-easy in feeling not so much in size sort of place. In addition to the smoking room, dark wood & candle lights and the 3 story staircase that overlooks the entire place; a 5-foot high stage with neon lights made way for the entertainment. Unfortunately, the weekly show must have been put on hold because instead we were graced with a Motown band (Vintage Trouble - I hate this name because it sounds too cover bandish) that sang all originals. My mouth was probably open the entire time because I truly believe I found heaven on earth. Repeatedly I pinched myself because it felt like we were on a movie set, but no - the venue, the band, the well dressed crowd and the gin &tonics were very real!! Thanks to LN & an old college classmate, CF, I had a wonderful night catching up with an awesome soundtrack playing in the background! It was as if Sam Cooke came to life and was playing a private set for us. *sigh

My friend & boss-man, AD, is usually my pilot during these trips so I tend to hang on his old stomping grounds: Los Feliz & West Hollywood. Naturally I’ve developed a love for these hoods.

NOTE: If you ever find yourself hungry &/or thirsty in WeHo, please go to Saint Felix on Santa Monica Blvd. You’re welcome in advance *wink

The weekend was extra special because two of my friends from NJ happened to be in San Diego so they drove up for the weekend! SM and her husband had never been to LA so I was super happy to show them around Hollywood! I took them down specific streets as to get a perfect view of the famous Hollywood sign atop the hills. The first time I saw it I flipped! We also went to check out Grauman’s Chinese Theater where the walk of fame with the cemented hands and footprints are. The first time I went there I started crying. I really had to take a moment and enjoy that overwhelming feeling of actually being in Hollywood, CA. Some people might laugh at me for that, but I have faith others totally get it. It’s not only about Hollywood, it’s about me and my dreams from a young age!

Down Hollywood Blvd. a bit, sits the new Bettie Page Store. I was in heaven obviously. Not many stores in NY carry the brand and if they do, their sizes are usually limited to XS-LG. This shop was filled with lots of the brands I indulge in on Pinup Girl Clothing and it had sizes up to 3X! Also the sale racks were filled with the cutest shit ever. I ended up leaving with a new dress & cardigan. Can’t wait to go back!

So earlier in the day, before the San Diego peeps came up, I went to brunch with another old college friend, DG, whose been living out here for almost 2 years now. In addition to Grad School she is pursuing dance and is totally phenom!! After brunch, us & the 2 friends we were with (one also visiting from NYC - a musical theater major whom I CANNOT wait to see in action) went roaming around town. While the car was getting washed we ran across the street to TRASHY LINGERIE!!! I paid the $2 for my club card and brought DG in as my guest - HA! She tried on a corset for the first time and fell in love - obviously! I ended up leaving with 2 high-waist retro “panties” haha funny word but it’s cuter than underwear, blah!

So later that night ALL of us met back up at Hamburger Mary’s where yet another dear friend from NJ works! There happened to be a drag & burlesque show so I was definitely not going to miss this!
We joked that we had a mellow night of nachos, blue moons, and a stripping cookie monster haha! The costumes at this show were just so perfect…I was mad jelly. None of them were classic acts and most were Disney themed. There was a Snow White, the witch from sleeping beauty (fudge, I’m forgetting her name this second), a Cheshire cat, Cookie Monster, and some Reba drag! Gorgeous women, getting nekkid with an awesome crowd filled with birthdays & bachelorettes - the perfect way to spend my last Saturday night in town!

OK - so I’m hours away from landing in NY and I have my first official show booked for THIS Friday, January 14 at the Parkside Lounge!! (Check out the facebook invite here) I cannot believe it! I’m debuting a new act and am feeling confident though and especially honored because the lineup is crazy hot & talented! I think it was 2 blogs ago that I mentioned working the door at Drive Thru Burlesque (produced by Lefty Lucy & Sizzle Dizzle) and now I’m in the first show of the year! Part of the Early Bird Special, the show starts at 8p and last til 1a! For $10 you get 3 shows in a row, all with a different flava and performers. You don’t wanna miss this one in particular!

I’m remembering from the Burlesque Handbook, the chapter on creating a routine, one of-if not the first- question was something along the lines of: Is your act more music, costume/theme, or dance centered? I jumped to answer music, then theme, then dance…obviously I had no clue and found it hard to answer with out really diving into it yet. Being a Libra I, undecided, answered “all of them!” I was sorta right but now I know for sure that in addition to the stripping I really love the theatrics. I guess I’m not really surprised either. I also remember Gal Friday saying a lot of acts just starting out are prop/theme heavy because it alleviates the pressure and attention from your body and the stripping. For me I’ve realized I just love it all. I want the attention, the power, and the fun of performing all in one. I wanna own the audience both physically and mentally - yowza!

Time to sign off and relax a bit before we land. I am supposed to be going to Hundredaire Matchmaker tonight - a Brooklyn based, live dating event - one of my friends is sick though and the other hasn’t confirmed she’s still going. I don’t really want to go alone but I’ll see how I’m feeling! This was one of the first things I committed to for the new year I would hate to miss it and beat myself up over it later.

As always thanks for tuning in and for the continued support! XoXo.

Ciao for now,
TT

PS: I will be posting my final-product pictures from my Justin Borucki shoot (website) on my FB page. Also I’m waiting to hear back about a private Valentine’s day event - how fun!? Aaaannd there might be a music video appearance in the near future. OMG! I love my life.

Merry XoXo-mas & the Happiest of New Year!

2010-12-25T13:05:00.000-05:00

To my friends, foes, lovers, & haters alike -

I send you huge holiday hugs.
May your cup always be half full - if not overflowing, your heart warmed with whiskey - or whatever your preferred poison, and your hands held by the ones you love - unless your palms get sweaty, take a break.

I do not make resolutions other than promising to be the best self I possibly have to offer the world; to continue on the path that I'm so enjoying the struggles and triumphs of.
Explore new adventures, taste new dishes, and drink new drinks. Make new friends, call your old ones, and let some go.

I'm off to enjoy/attempt all of the above & I hope you are too!

With an abundance of peace & love...Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to you and yours.

Ciao for now,
TT

My Research is Sexier Than Yours!

2010-12-22T00:48:00.005-05:00

Phew! I am exhausted.

I don’t think I’ve ever seen this much boobage -that wasn‘t my own- in my life! Last night I finished my end of 2010 Burlesque Research Binge! (Although I’m now thinking I might see a couple more shows post-xmas, pre-new year!)

My first Burlesque-esque (ha!) activity was Bikini Boot camp (BBB) on Wednesday night. It was SO much fun. I wanted to dress up but I was running late in the morning to work so I just grabbed leggings and some heels. Yes, heels for an exercise class. Usually the first half hour is an aerobic workout and the second half we learn a cute little routine. The overall goal while doing the dance is to love yourself and your body “as it is right now”. I loved hearing that. It makes the fitness part truly feel like it’s about health and not merely a get-thin goal. So I ended up wearing my heels most of the class. It was actually great and made my workout a lot harder sometimes. For my sassiness, I won some OPI Nail Polishes that were released to promote the Burlesque movie. Hooray for Cher & Xtina! Booo for a movie whose name is misleading!

Come Friday, I started my burlyQ weekend. I had emailed Lefty Lucy (as advised by Jo Boobs) about performing in her monthly show Drive-Thru Burlesque. Produced by Lefty and Sizzle Dizzle, they always love letting new graduates from NYSB perform. I also added that’d I’d be at the show on Friday to check it out. The next day the girls wrote and asked if I’d like to work the door … um, duh I would!

So I wore my newest corset, under my newest dress and headed out the door. It’s held at the Parkside Lounge, which I had never been too but heard it was awesome. It is in fact, this great little rock bar that has this secretly cool back room with a stage and tables. SO CUTE! I loved it the second I walked in. The show is great and works as a 3-parter. For $10, you really get 3 shows, over a span of 5hrs!

Saturday morning I reluctantly headed to BBB again, I met Charlie Gun & MK there. I have to admit how proud of myself I was for actually going. I did have to slap myself in the face and say “Tina, get up lazy & go!” Not to say I’m some totally transformed being, but an older version of Tina would have pressed snooze and pretended to over sleep. That night I took myself to a free show at the Toro Lounge. Produced by my fave gal Calamity Chang (I‘m turning her into my friend because I just love talking to her!), Tails & Feathers made it’s second stop at this venue. The place was really beautiful and glamorous like most sexy NYC hotel lounges. My $13 rum & coke, helped me keep my 1-drink-only promise to myself because I was meeting friends afterward. My fellow graduate Sincerely Yours met me there! It was the first time I saw Clams Casino perform and the first time I heard Shelly the Singing Siren. There was a great diverse crowd that, in my opinion, weren’t too schooled in burlesque which is always exciting to see how people react. No one screamed anything in appropriate (I don’t think) and I’m confident to say people tipped fairly well!

Ugh, Sunday, I was so ready to curl up in bed and say “forget it!” I got in the shower, put lipstick on my lips, and headed out the door for a $10 show I will never forget. The Sunday Show, after 2 years, was on it’s last night. With an “American Dream” theme, we celebrated the holidays with an amazing span of performers. I finally saw some fire eating by the sexily stripped down Coco La Pearl, a glowing hula hoop act by Justina Flash who also stripped while hula-ing? Hooping? I dunno. Also I got to see Legs Malone and her 34 ½” inseam do a classic number. My girl Calamity was there again and I finally got to enjoy her, not-to-be-missed Asian Hooker act. Google it. I can’t even talk about how much fun it is. Of all the acts my favorite new-to-me performer was Grace Gotham. I fell in love with her face and the sweet & simple tassel twirling act she did!! Before I wrap this up, I have to express my deep, newfound envy of & love for Kiki Valentine. She was the MC and producer of the show. She was so on point and adorable and hilarious and spontaneous and just the kind of stage presence/host you want have & be. In love.

Oh! Also I won an It’s a Little Hat by Little Stormy - YES! My second custom hat by her! It carried the show’s theme with a picket fence and red Volvo…ha!

I wrapped my exhausting but wonderful weekend up with Monday night’s free show, Original Cyn Burlesque in my very own neighborhood, thank god, at Lucky 13 Saloon!

I’ve been dying to check this bar out and when I heard there was a show held there I was pumped to see both! I met one of the producers, Joe the Shark, at Drive-Thru on Friday and told him I definitely wouldn’t miss it. The less-than-a-stage and more like a platform area was perfect. I loved the dingy, dark, metal bar that also had a pole on the corner of the counter top. I drank a coca-cola, sans rum, for $2 and put $5 in the tip bucket. Got to see a new friend, Franny Fluffer, perform along with Stormy Leather (best name ever!). It was Rosie 151’s birthday and send off performance. I have to say, her body was amazing. She was probably 1 or 2 sizes smaller than me but her stomach was flat and cute and her thighs looked smooth as silk. How does she do it?! I really couldn’t keep my eyes off of her none-existent belly, Yowza! My favorite act was co-producer, Mary Cyn’s, Grinch who stole xmas & my clothes performance! On the bar top she struggled with the “Grinch” (a guy dressed up haha) as he took her presents, teddy bear & eventually her gift box bow pasties. I think the bar let out an “OOHHHH” as the bows were ripped off her nipples. Ouch. Ha!

Omg. This is so long. I hope it was as fun to read as it was for me to recount my weekend. It was worth the energy, time, and money. Going to shows is a great way to obviously show face and introduce yourself to performers and producers and even more importantly, to see the different venues you could possibly perform in. I saw 4 different ones and all 4 I had never been to. Wow, I actually just realized that, so cool! I love calling it research because in fact it is. The more performers you see the more you can start to form your identity in the community. Knowing what’s available or seeing which acts inspire you, or even classic moves that you can make your own. I thoroughly enjoyed every show because they were all very different and new to me. If you’re interested in seeing a show, I try to promote them as much as I can on my FB page even if I myself cannot make them.

I hope in the new year I’ll be able to write about performing in some of these particular shows & venues. We’ll see what happens!

I hope you all have a gorgeous & fulfilling holiday season and I wish you happiness, health, & success.

Ciao for now,

PS: How much do you love these names? I love telling my roommates stories because it sounds like I'm high and living in a cartoon, but on the contrary good friends, THIS IS REAL LIFE AND I LOVE IT!

It's Showtime!

2010-12-13T00:57:00.010-05:00

Be there an hour early, bring a robe, don't forget your music. THAT'S IT! Those were our last instructions. *bites nails*

Sooo..here's the video.

Each time I press play and hear my friends chanting I've started to cry ha! I am incredibly overwhelmed by the support including that from those who couldn't make the show.

Friday was AMAZING. My fellow classmates left me speechless:

Charlie Gun - like her here

Evelyn Vinyl - like her here

Raven Twin - like her here

Sincerely Yours - find her here

Iris Explosion - find her here

Our Gorgeous Stage Kitten & fellow performer: Franny Fluffer - find her here

Our Co-host & fellow performer: Jonny Porkpie - like him here
And last but most d efinitely not least, our head mistress, hostess with the mostess: Jo Boobs Weldon - LOVE her & her book here

All day I was fine until I started having a stomach ache due to nerves. As I've said many a time, I haven't performed anything in years. Especially not solo. (That was probably a piano recital when I was about 11years old.) We did a quick run through on stage to make sure our music was working and to get a feel for the space. I forgot my routine and could barely hear the music. OMG! I was so freaked out that my concentration was off, this only put me in more of a panic.

I ended up being the 2nd to last performer. I think it was a good thing because by the time I had to go on my hands stopped shaking and my heart calmed down. My friends were there in abundance, which at first worked against my angst, but eventually kept my spirits high as hell! I felt good on stage and didn't want it to end. My left boob refused to twirl backstage, I'm pretty sure it had a mini-stroke, by the looks of the video though it seemed to wake up just in time for twirling! That made me feel SO good! I obviously take pride in my twirls haha!

After each dancer was finished Jo Boobs had us come back on stage and chatted with us a bit. I thought it was hilarious walking out in hot pants and tassels "out of character". A friend of mine, JT (not Justin Timberlake ha!), asked on my facebook page, "...was it more nerve wracking to dance or to stand there at the end and chat in not much clothing?" I immediately answered to chat and she had assumed it was because of my lack of clothing in comparison to the over dressed audience. It definitely wasn't the nudity.

I've become more (and am still becoming) comfortable with that part. Frankly, every morning I've been making it a point to enjoy my nude body in morning lite streaming through my sheer curtains (yum! what a scene I've set up for you..) I look in the mirror and think "god, I look really good to hold." (does that even make sense? hahah) I shit you not. It's that whole positive affirmation thing. It helps - try it out asap! Take at least a few minutes daily to enjoy you & only you.
So, as I said above, it was walking back onto stage as regular ol' Tina wearing a funny costume. I immediately answered the question with a joke because I was too nervous to be serious. Nervous in the sense that my heart was pounding post-performance, and I was feeling shaky from the adrenaline. I've never really been scared of public speaking but I'm pretty sure I lost some of that courage along the way too.

Jo's first question for each performer was, "what inspired you to be here?" In a past blog I've said that one of my biggest fears is being taken seriously and that following and fulfilling dreams is terrifying. I'm not sure why. It's partially a fear of rejection & partially a fear of what happens after you reach a goal.(silly, right?)
I wanted to tell the audience that for most of my life I've been dying to be on a stage but just couldn't keep my chin up in the pursuit. If in the middle of my high school career, you would have asked me where I saw myself at 27, I would have quickly replied I'd be living in NYC and working on Broadway...I'm half way there? ha!

Well now it's over.
In addition to feeling relieved, I'm excited to get working on a new act. It was gonna be my first but I was so overwhelmed I couldn't go that far. I was too scared, but now I'm ready!! Full speed ahead...I'll have to work on getting booked. Going to shows, looking for castings, anyway really to get my face & name out there.

It's only been 2 days since my only show and I feel like I've been doing it for years..not because I have a big head about it but because it just felt SO good to be back out there. I hope to parlay this energy & rising confidence into other auditions. I know I'd love to do hosting gigs. I think I'd be great at it after a couple of goes and it'd be a perfect way to give pseudo stand-up comedy a try too! *Fingers crossed*

Before I go, I want to be completely honest...pictures are being posted from the show, I too am sharing them, but I will not pretend that it's not tough looking at them and not comparing myself to the other girls around me. My boobs are triple in size and therefore tripled in weight. My one thigh is the size of Jo Boobs' entire body. Blah blah blah. I'm doing my best to look beyond the photo and reminding myself what a wonderful, much needed experience the classes & show night were. Phew! I'm glad I got that off my chest.

My favorite part(s): Being on stage FINALLY! And in close 2nd is being backstage with ma girls!

The hardest part(s): Feeling 100% ready. Confidence is KEY to a good performance, I know for sure I have it in here somewhere I just need to find it!!
What I learned: To fucking werk. it. out. and enjoy every second!

I have another Burlesque Bikini Boot camp class on Wednesday and am looking forward to sweating! Stay warm readers <3

Ciao for now,
TT

PS: Here I am as a snowlady at the Holiday Bazaar sporting my It's a Little Hat by Little Stormy! I had to wear pasties (homemade out of coffee filters btw, shhh) so I didnt offend anyone ;)

Busy Life for a Poor Girl

2010-12-04T00:34:00.008-05:00

HIEEEEE!
So I’ve had a really great past week & have a really exciting one ahead! My title says it all. I am confident to say I'm in the "paying dues" phase of my career. I know more things are to come & *fingers crossed* paychecks will accompany them.

On Monday, I put the finishing touches on my costume for the upcoming showcase. I added some sparkle where it was lacking and finished making my bra into what I need it to be. Aside from being annoying at times, building your own costume (even if only manipulating store bought pieces) adds a hint of ego to the performer. Well for me anyway. Even though, pieces stay on for mere seconds during your routine, it gives you much pride in the end knowing you designed it. If you’re like me you enjoy feeling as if you’re the only one with certain shoes, or dresses, or anything. You know it’s not true but tricking yourself feels great! So when you make your own costume, you cannot help but feel like there is no other one out there like it and frankly there might not be!
I will not lie though either, when I can afford it, I will buy my costumes and have things made to order. That is the princess fantasy!

On Tuesday I got to shoot with my gorgeous & talented friend Doron Gild. (check out his phenom work here) He made it clear that it would be a combination of the Tina Tassels physical with the Doron Gild photographic. That said, I wasn’t allowed to smile much and I found it extremely hard! I whined about it but he was being serious and professional and not giving in, booooo! (ha! Jk jk.) By some miracle, and by that I mean knowing the right people, we were allowed to shoot in the Beauty Bar. Which I was ECSTATIC about. I love that place. If you’ve never been there, check it out. Many a tourist & locals alike, spend their nights there. It has a wall lined in old hair dryers, another with old barber chairs, and a back room that I prefer to call the disco lounge. I am honored that I have had, this early in my career, the opportunity to shoot there. Also a shot out to my OTHER beautiful & talented friend, Krista Pruent, for her awesome makeup skills & hair support! (see more of her work here)

This is my favorite of the day.

(You can check out my other pics here, and there are more to come!)

Thursday, through Twitter, I saw that The Wendy Williams Show was having a casting call for 2 friends or siblings to be her red carpet correspondents for Jingle Ball at Madison Square Garden. I am never one to pass up a possible chance of being on TV or a talk show or any contest really. ( I almost won 3 cars a couple of years back!) After debate over my PIC (partner in crime for you nOObs), I approached my friend LM (whose yummy brunching blog you can read here) thinking no one else would be interested. A lot of people think I’m silly or reaching too far when I enter such things, but she had already beat me to the punch with her bff! I was so psyched to hear that friends were trying out too! After this I told (not even asked) my great friend, who is well on his way to being a huge singer/song writer, AD (whose beautiful sounds you can listen to here and buy on itunes). He laughed a bit and then gave in. I submitted a picture & a blurb about who we are, how/why we’re friends, etc…and A PRODUCER CALLED ME TODAY! We have a meeting on Monday, we’ll see what happens. I think the red carpet is dying for two people like us!

Tomorrow is my first class of Burlesque Bikini Boot camp (read about it here). We will be mixing aerobics/yoga/pilates AND burlesque style dance moves! Um….perfect! Two friends will be joining me: shy girl (from my SOB class) & MK, the brave girl who came to our pasty making party and twirled for the first time! I think we’re gonna have a blast while burning some calories, I cannot wait!

My good friend JT (whose paper work you can check out here), is hosting her annual holiday crafting party on Sunday. Since I’ve got too much to worry about I’ve decided to work on my event costume instead. I am being a snow-wo-man so it counts! For the Holiday Spirits Event I felt the itch to order a custom hat and on Monday I will be able to pick mine up by Little Stormy. She has become a sweet interweb friend and I cannot wait to put it on!! (see her hats here)

I am happy to say my anxiety has subsided and I’m feeling great. A little nervous, but nothing abnormal nor that I can’t handle. I know Friday will be here before we know it so I’ve really gotta practice A LOT this week. Holy shit. Aw and my mom wants to come “if you’ll have me there” she said. I told her I’d understand her absence because on Fridays she works a bizzillion hours and the last thing she needs to do is drive in alone from South Jersey for a 9pm strip show. In all honesty it’d be great to have her there but I don’t want to pressure her too much so I played it cool. Nice daughter. Ha!

I made my first ever macaroons today, they are SO good. Tomorrow's batch MIGHT have some chocolate drizzled on top. (weird the TV just said "drizzle" as I typed it, that's a sign for sure!)
I wish you all a great weekend with warmth & holiday spirit in the air - baby it's cold outside!

Ciao for now,
TT

Reminders:
Dec 10 9p-11p $15 - more info here
Student Showcase: where us newbies strut our stuff for the first time!
Coney Island, Sideshows by the Seashore
Dec 11 4pVIP/5pmREG-10p $25VIP/$20REG - more info here
Although I won't be performing, I'll be a "Special Guest" - hooray! Come enjoy some new cocktails & good company.
Brooklyn, The Green Building

"Fuck, I wish I was that Chair"

2010-11-29T01:26:00.002-05:00

...that's what goes through a guy's mind watching a hot girl play with a metal folding chair...

Best title ever!

Today we had the foul-mouthed hottie, Gal Friday. I have to confess, she is my favorite performer as of now. There’s just something about her, I don’t blink when she‘s on stage. I see a lot of myself in her so in respect, she is a huge influence on me. Needless to say, I barely talked in class and hung on every word she said.

So class was ½ Chair Dancing Basics and ½ The Art of Peeling. We began with glove peeling. I LOVE wearing long satin gloves. I said it before, but every girl should own a pair! We were taught different ways to remove them and a few were already my favorite but it was fun to practice them some more and learn little tricks to make them smoother & sexier. I loved a couple specific teases that brought the attention back to my boobs. Not only do I love them (haha!) but because it’s important to work with what you have and focus less on what you’re lacking.

Moving onto chair work we first did some peeling off of thigh-high stockings …cute! Gal gave us a little history on real vintage stockings vs. modern/cheap ones. I don’t know about anyone else but I love stockings in general. I have a hard time with thigh-highs though because I have huge thighs and they don’t stay on as well. Booo! I mean my thighs are great but really soft so therefore need their particular size to look cute. Today’s stockings were small on me but we’re fine for learning. I like watching other performers peel their’s off but I’ve personally never cared for really getting into it. I always wanted to learn it but at this point have no desire to shed them on stage!

OK, Next was chair dancing. Again we learned an entire routine. This was a bit challenging for me and I felt much less sexier than I thought I would. Not the entire dance but the sitting on the chair parts I felt like my ass and thighs were so spread out, covering the entire chair (because naturally that’s what happens when you sit down sans jeans/tight bottoms, duh!). Looking at myself in the mirror, I didn’t care for what I saw. There was a specific move where you kick your legs up so you’re using your core for extra support and somewhat bracing yourself with your hands. This was hard for 2 reasons: 1) I have no core muscles and 2) Keeping your body crunched up like that is much more complicated when you’ve got a lot of weight in your thighs and lower “abs”. I know I’m totally PMS-ing right now (sorry for TMI) but I got really upset and felt like a hippo sitting on a child size stool. Blah! BUT THEN we got up and started flirting more with the audience using our ever so slow walk (in heels of course), making eye contact with the faux audience, exaggerated bumps-n-grinds, and eventually caressing the chair. That is when I got carried away (in a good way) because I felt like the audience was on the edge of their seats wondering where this was gonna go. I personally felt this routine to be a reminder as to how important it is to take your time and enjoy each move, don’t feel like you have to be doing something big and wild every second of your routine. I would love to chair dance eventually I just need to work on my body more!

It was our 4th & final class of the Essential Series - boooo! I feel that AT LEAST one more would have been perfect either to use the time as a practice run for our showcase or just one chance to meet and work with a new teacher/performer/personality. Although a few of us dreamt it’d last as long as a normal semester. Ugh…I felt like everyone was just getting really pumped and now it’s all gone. Forever. Just kidding, I don’t mean to be dramatic but it’s less than 2 weeks away from our show and I feel like I’ll be outta practice. Waiting 6 days for the next class was torture enough!!

My favorite part(s): Gloves & Boobs.
The hardest part(s): Keeping my legs up while maintaining sexiness.
What I learned: I need to practice my showcase routine and not feel so in need of using props and making big moves every second. Slow it down Tina Tassels!

I’ll be working on my costume & getting my routine down for the next 10days. It’s crunch time ladies & gents!

Ciao for now,
TT

Reminders:
Dec 10 9p-11p $15 - more info here
Student Showcase: where us newbies strut our stuff for the first time!
Coney Island, Sideshows by the Seashore
Dec 11 4pVIP/5pmREG-10p $25VIP/$20REG - more info here
Although I won't be performing, I'll be a "Special Guest" - hooray! Come enjoy some new cocktails & good company.
Brooklyn, The Green Building

Elephant in a Tutu

2010-11-22T15:14:00.007-05:00

BEFORE CLASS: I’m feeling nervous. My fear set in late last week but I thought it’d disappear so I didn’t mention it in the last blog. Being without a doubt, the biggest girl in my class I feel I have to work extra hard to accomplish what I want in my performance; to be laughed with and not laughed at, to be cheered for and not mocked. I don’t need words of encouragement here (or maybe I do, who knows?) I just need to verbalize or in this case writerize (ha!) what‘s going through my head and heart. And I know that I’ve already gone on and on about how accepting and welcoming the Burlesque audience is, but I’m having “naked big girl in a room full of naked small girls” anxiety. I cannot stop chewing my nicely grown nails. Yuck! And all of this is where my title came from - it's what I've been feeling like lately.

AFTER CLASS: There’s no turning back, not for Tina Tassels!
We had our 3rd class today: Fan Dance, Strutting, and Walking. The amazing, gorgeous, and hilarious Jezebel Express (whose blog you can read here) was our instructor. I am sad that I am yet to see her perform but I’ve been following her for some time now. Seeing a girl with a bigger rack and ass than mine teaching us how to showgirl walk was nothing short of exactly what I needed. (I say this all with love Jez!) It wasn't because I was smaller it was because how beautiful and graceful she looked. She said we could stalk her with questions of any kind and I insisted that I probably would because I’m filling up with fear about my size. She had the kindest things to say (including that she’s read my blog, OMG!) and totally made the rest of my day. Thanks girl! <3

Ok…Fan Dancing = hard. Until you are used to the weight of them, your arms and hands go numb. Until you get used to when to twist your wrists and where to face your hands, your fans will be uneven and you’ll probably hit yourself in the face - which I did. The fans were so beautiful though and we learned an entire routine! There were only 2 pairs of large ostrich feather fans available so we were learning with smaller ones. After learning the dance, start-to-finish, 2 of us at a time danced for the class using the large ones. It was so great to finally get a feel for them (I‘m not sure about the others, but I definitely hadn‘t held a pair before). In my opinion the fans took up a lot of my attention so I wasn’t pointing toes or smiling as much (except when I was laughing at myself for messing up). They did though, feel super soft and sensual on your skin. I should probably own a pair soon.

We also learned a few different types of walks. It was important to be shown what an impact a little knee bending and/or a pointed toe can do for the length of your legs. This was a good tip for me! We also strutted around in mock high heels (we aren’t allowed to wear shoes in this particular space). It was cute kicking our heels up and I shared how I felt like the ballet dancing ostrich in Fantasia, so dainty and feminine! I loved the Left-Right-Bump walk. Having big hips comes in handy here and makes the walk look so much more womanly...hubba hubba!

December 10 is creepin up so fast. Today after class a few of us girls got together and made pasties and worked on our costumes. My good friend and NON-SOB student, MK, joined us too and put pasties on for the first time (well, I think it was her first time!). The clock is ticking and we’re freaking out, in a good way, but still freaking out! Red wine, sequin trim, and topless girls make for a great Sunday night!

My favorite part(s): Walking with Jezebel.
The hardest part(s): Getting my hands to face the right ways with the fans in em! Booo!
What I learned: How important your face is! If you look bored, nervous, or confused (naturally vs. unintentionally) the audience is also gonna be bored, nervous, and confused. Smile, pout your lips, do something to prove that you're enjoying yourself because hopefully you are!

I just got back from LA and am exhausted. I cannot wait to put my head down. In the coming weeks I have intense costume planning/making to do, I have to get my props together, some routine choreography finalization, & just chill the fuck out and do this!

Ciao for now,
TT

Reminders:
Dec 10 9p-11p $15 - more info here
Student Showcase: where us newbies strut our stuff for the first time!
Coney Island, Sideshows by the Seashore
Dec 11 4pVIP/5pmREG-10p $25VIP/$20REG - more info here
Although I won't be performing, I'll be a "Special Guest" - hooray! Come enjoy some new cocktails & good company.
Brooklyn, The Green Building

Brave Women Are So Inspiring!

2010-11-15T22:54:00.004-05:00

Class 2: Bring an item of street clothing to strip off.

Street clothing is any piece of clothing that's not intended to be stage stripped. No secret snaps, easy zipper pulls, velcro etc..

I felt totally lame and uncreative when all I brought was a zip-up top (totally sexy off the shoulder fitted zip up but none-the-less a plain old zip up). I should have known better!! Never underestimate the teachings of the SOB! All I needed was a zipper, sexy music, and good timing peppered with some tease!

SO MUCH FUN! Taught by Darlinda Just Darlinda (read up & 'like' her here), it was the first time we had to do a mini performance for the class. We stood up one-by-one and depending on the item, DJD would set up a little scenario/character/emotion and then shared little tips on how to work our specific piece of clothing. I think the girl with skinny jeans was my favorite. It was comical and so damn cute to watch. You felt for the sweet little girl needing help with her jeans. Oh! I also liked the naughty librarian with a button up top and a pen...so simple, so good.

I loved this exercise because it taught us little tricks that are so simple but can keep an audience hanging on your every move. Ugh, I can't get over how amazing it was and how courageous my fellow classmates are! It was incredibly moving to see even the shyest of girls thrusting their hips wearing huge smiles. I keep my fingers crossed they perform - even if only for someone special at home!
Before the stripping, we went over "isolations". DJD schooled us on how each part of our body is uber sexy with just a little extra attention. I've always sorta felt this way though. I think the body is so gorgeous and little parts like necks and lower backs are to die for...but even more so now. A shoulder is NOT just a shoulder anymore...yum! I don't remember what is in store for next week..but I pray it's chair dancing!

My favorite part(s): Actually getting up in front of everyone and getting some practice while eyes were watching.
The hardest part(s): I couldn't seem to get this side-to-side rib cage move down!
What I learned: Take your time working each little button, zipper or pulling off of your costume. The anticipation of skin showing is painfully hot!

I said it last week and I'll keep saying it: next Sunday cannot come soon enough!

Ciao for now,
TT

Announcements: Some exciting things to share!
Dec 10 9p-11p $15
Student Showcase: where us newbies strut our stuff for the first time!
Coney Island, Sideshows by the Seashore
Dec 11 4pVIP/5pmREG-10p $25VIP/$20REG
Although I won't be performing, I'll be a "Special Guest" - hooray! Come enjoy some new cocktails & good company.
Brooklyn, The Green Building

If Reality TV Comes Knocking

2010-11-11T15:27:00.004-05:00

Sometime in the early summer I was contacted by a photographer, David Kimelman (whose website you can see here), who had seen my profile on www.realitywanted.com and was doing a project using other people he had contacted on there as well. He was interested in photographing those on the site and knowing more about their story...why they were interested in doing reality TV work. He said that my answer seemed to be the overall consensus:

I wanna be paid to be myself.

He recently emailed and asked if I could answer a few questions because he is looking to publish his images and/or share them in a gallery but wanted some text with his shots.

Frankly, I couldn't care less for the pictures he took but that's my problem not his. My hair was flat and so were my shoes. Whatevs!

Below are the questions. I was a bit impulsive in my replies so I've corrected grammatical errors and added words that I mistakenly forgot.

1.What reality television show or shows would you like to be cast on?
On certain nights, I'd think about going on a weight loss show. 2 birds - 1 stone. Lose weight and get my face on TV while sharing my dreams. And America's Next Top Model because I'd love to learn more about modeling/fashion but I'm pretty sure that I'm too short & wide simultaneously ha!

2.Why do you think you would be good on that show or shows?

Because I'm in need a boost for both of those things [weight loss & my face on TV]. Not necessarily losing weight but just looking better naked. And for some reason following my dreams is extremely terrifying. Pursuing anything in show business is scary. You put EVERYTHING on display: physically, mentally, & emotionally.

3.Would you like to have a reality television show made about your life? If yes, what would we see in that show?

Yes! Currently I'd love to have a camera following me while I pursue Burlesque and pinup modeling - 1) burlesque is reemerging in a huge way in NYC and I'm happy to be in the middle of it 2) pinup modeling isn't the standard -obviously - and I think people would love to watch/learn about retro pop culture. Every woman has a secret dream of being a pinup 3) I am plus sized. I think this would challenge a lot of the way people think. In some opinions, I probably shouldn't be parading around on stage half naked because I might show a couple belly rolls when I do a certain dance move. They can suck it!

4. How do you think your life would change if you were cast on a show?

I'd keep my fingers crossed that it'd get better! (I don't think it could get worse, I've got nothing to lose right now) Frankly I'd get a small paycheck to pay rent for a few months so that'd be nice and I'm sure I'd get to meet a lot more people in the pinup & burlesque communities than I already am. At the end of the day I just wanna make a career out of posing in REALLY cute/sexy/fun clothes or lack there of ;)

Ciao for now,
TT

Hi, My name is Tina Tassels

2010-11-08T00:30:00.001-05:00

Today I had my first class!! It felt nothing short of amazing! I haven‘t done anything like this in years and it was great to be in a performance group again.

Before I share anything else, I must get this out of my system:
EVERYONE SHOULD SPEND HOURS NAKED IN FRONT OF A HUGE MIRROR!

Of course I was scared but after awhile I couldn't help but think "God, I look so great without a top on!"

Ok, so there were 8 of us which was perfect. I was scared that the class would be much bigger. Having it smaller definitely makes me feel like Jo Boobs was only teaching me. (Love her btw, I will say this over and over again). We have a gorgeous class filled with awesome girls ranging in experience and body type. Shy girl* was there because the final straw was when her boyfriend said “you’d never do something like that”. I’m so glad she‘s here. There were some girls like me just dying to get back into some sort of dancing and performing and obviously this fire inside longing to um…strip, I guess?! The first girl I met, Bucharest*, was there even earlier than me and had smoked just as many cigarettes in her nervous anticipation. She was a doll and I’m sure it will ease both our families when we say “I met a Romanian girl there!”

We learned an entire classic routine set to an oldie-but-goodie big band burlesque song. From caressing our boas, to sampling some cleavage play, peeling our gloves from the floor up, and finally “shakin our titties” - that’s how my brother would put it. We also flirted with our hips, learning a few different bump -n- grinds.

When it came to tassel twirling we learned 5+ ways. It was super fantastic that after an hour of class we were taking off our tops and bras and putting on pasties, some for the first time. How brave! I will not lie, I was terrified at first. I am the biggest girl in the class with I’m pretty sure the heaviest set of twins (I mean boobs btw for you prudes out there). After about 5mins of jitters I had to shake myself out of it because we were learning how to mind fuck the audience by just playing with our bra straps. Holy Cow! I loved a particular move involving my right hand, the left strap, and sliding it off while your entire body sorta melts down. (I don’t wanna give too much away so this is vague!)
Back to twirling, it was great to try different moves and figure out which was best suited to your body. Not everyone can twirl the same way, but everyone CAN find their perfect move!

My favorite part(s): I loved playing with the boas and my bra the most today.
The hardest part(s): Not looking down while twirling. Have faith in your boobies and soak in that audience!
What I learned: Standing still and making tiny moves is just as, if not more, powerful than trying something bigger and bolder. I also think it’s much harder for me and I am looking forward to exploring this calmer side more!

Today could not have been a better first class and next Sunday cannot come soon enough!

Ciao for now,

*I’ve obviously given nicknames to my fellow students and totally love it.

**And I've also shared these pictures with you from Google searches. Hooray for the interweb!

Welcome My Fine Feathered Friends!

2010-10-31T14:32:00.004-04:00

I’ve been using that phrase for years and now it’s seemingly appropriate, Hooray!

I debated sharing my experiences for a long time and have finally come to a place where I think they’ll be much more interesting. You see dear friends, I’ve enrolled in the New York School of Burlesque!! OW OW! (virtual cat calling) I will be taking the Essential Burlesque Dance Series. It is 4 Sundays, 2 hours each class, and I am ecstatic. I’ve been itching to take dance classes and equally refusing to spend the little money I make on them but I’ve reached my boiling point. I have faith it will be worth every penny and the beginning of a really exciting year…fingers crossed!

I am feeling refreshed at 27 and falling in love with myself all over again. Since moving to NYC over two years ago, I’m steadily regaining a confidence I’m pretty sure I lost in college. Being a girl is hard enough, being a plus size girl in a frat house makes it even harder. I’ve always loved my curves but grew up in a world that thought them diseased so I struggled with this dichotomy for years on end. I’m not here to complain about that though, I’m here to celebrate being a happy, confident, big hipped girl who just wants to dance!

You n00bs asking “what is burlesque?” I’ll explain it the way I did to my mother: Like a stripping showgirl. It celebrates being funny and sexy at the same time. I mean hellooo I’m funny AND sexy! (note: she thinks I’m officially nuts.)

First Taste: On Wednesday, August 25, 2010, I dragged my friend LM (whose blog you can read here) to go see the SOB‘s (School of Burlesque) Student Showcase. I had never been to a live burlesque show and could not take it anymore; I would have gone alone. Long story short, I was the reluctant audience volunteer at intermission. Jo “Boobs“ Weldon (headmistress at SOB, read her blog here) asked me onstage after my friends had been yelling my name. Oh god, I thought. After a few introductory questions I had my back to the audience and was unbuttoning my top. Before I knew it I was bra free and had tasseled pasties hanging from my boobs. At this point I was told to face the audience. “My poor mother,” I said. I learned a little bumpin and grindin then within seconds my hands were in the air, I was bouncing up and down, and the tassels were twirling. Holy cow!
I got a standing ovation (because Burlesque audiences rock!), my first pair of pasties (yum!), and I was hooked...

I’ll try and keep my entries short, sweet, and fun but I make no promises! I wanna have a video each week in addition to a write up but we’ll see how that goes. My first class is next Sunday, Nov 7, and I hope you check back to hear all about it!

Ciao for now,
TT

PS: Happy Halloween! I celebrated last night and do not see myself leaving the house today. ouch.