Carr credits her being a “thrift store gal” in helping her parlay a hearty interest in the rich history of burlesque to create an authentic experience for a paying audience, who may not be that versed in its lore. Yet the vogue of nostalgia is not something that’s been a recent pursuit, rather a lifelong obsession and source of admiration of female empowerment.

“I’m a mad collector of everything rare and archaic,” Carr smiles. “I haven’t worn new clothes in I don’t even know how long. Way before the term ‘vintage’ was used in the context of clothing. As far as being a burlesque historian, I would have to say I am somewhat of an historian. Although, it seems to be more of a hobby that is going way out of control! I love the burlesquer because of her confidence, her sheer fearlessness, irreverence. Especially in those days, so unconventional, so ahead of their time. I feel they were evolved women. They went out of their way to cultivate distinct looks and personalities, unlike today’s cookie cutter mentality.”

Burlesque was born in an era free of political correctness, which may jar current sensibilities. While the “girlie show” has been lambasted by post-feminists as degrading, aficianados find the burlesquer as a more realistic female image than the stick-thin glamazons gracing American popular arts at the moment. For Carr, the women of Velvet Hammer are a troupe of trained dancers, strippers and plain ol’ goodtime girls seeking to entertain the masses. They are also representative of a healthy female form in its varied manifestations.

“I want every flavor of she-treat,” Carr says. “That’s what the Velvet Hammer is all about. We are not age-biased at all. If you have the right attitude, aesthetic and personality, you’re in! Our age range over the years has been 19 to 60-something, counting Mamie Van Doren and Kitten Natavidad.”
web-master and design: www.DungeonDesigns.biz