We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Lily Clitour a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Lily , appreciate you joining us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

I always loved performing ever since I was a little kid. My sister and cousin would put on Spice Girl concerts in our living room. My sister’s and cousins were always putting on plays for our family. I was in choir and theater while in school. Later in life I learned how to dance with fire fans and at parties I would perform. I would join the fire conclaves at regional burns.

I never pursued performing professionally till this past year. I was going through a divorce and I wanted to do something for myself. A friend of mine Ruby Rabbit is a multi talented performer she amazes me of what she can do. I enjoyed going to her shows and it inspired me to give burlesque a try. It looked like so much fun! I asked how she got her start she told me about The Cleveland Burlesque Academy. So I signed up. Bella Sin runs the academy. Bella Sin is a Burlesque legend performer, teacher, entrepreneur, and so much more! I am honored to be taught under her.

I debuted my first act in December at the Beachland Ballroom. The show was a Star Wars themed show it was a blast. I performed as queen Padme and danced with vail fans. After that show I knew I wanted to do every show I could! I am still learning my craft. However I can’t wait to get back on stage!

I have met some incredible people in the burlesque community and they have been very friendly and supportive of a new comer like me. The Burlesque community is just that a community of very lovely talented people and I’m so excited to be a part of it!

I would like to give a shout out to Ruby Rabbit for being my role model!
Also Bella Sin for being an incredible teacher and support.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers

My name is Lily Clitour! (Pun intended if you know you know) I am a new to the scene burlesque Performer. I studied under Bella Sin through the Cleveland Burlesque Academy. I also dance with fire fans, Vail fans and LED fans. I’m learning how to make my own costumes and take existing items and jaz then up!

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

Burlesque is more than just taking your clothes off on stage. It is Art! People don’t realize how much goes in to one act. Costumes can get expensive many performers myself included have to get creative and even make their own costumes and props. Do you know how time consuming rhinestoneing is?

Not only that but every act and performer has to be different. So you might have an idea but it’s always good to do some research to see if their is anything already out there. If so how can you make it your own!

Let alone the endless list of music out their and trying to narrow down a song you want to use for your act. Then their is preparing your dance) act routine. It takes a lot of time, dedication creativity and love for what you do to go into your act! Burlesque performers are always trying to out do themselves improve and be better than their last act.

Burlesque is beautiful because it is a way for inclusion of everyone. Every race, gender, sexuality, religion, ability, disability. and body type. To be able to create and show case their talents!

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

I think it’s important for people to support all local artiest not just burlesque artiest. There is so much bad in the world so sometimes people forget about all of the good there is. Art is away for people to express themselves, the world around them and even the universe!

Going to a burlesque show, art show, concert or even a museum, is a good way to take a break from the day and find joy in our lives. Supporting artiest helps fellow humans and also brings the community together!

Contact Info:

• Instagram: lily_clitour
• Facebook: Lily Clitour