Lulu Mon Dieu and The Bootleg Bombshells

Today the Venice Paparazzi spotlight shines on Lulu Mon Dieu and The Bootleg Bombshells.

How many years in Venice?
The Bootleg Bombshells burlesque show have been performing every Wednesday night in The Townhouse and Del Monte Speakeasy since February of 2013. The show is always free and the doors for burlesque open at 11:30 right after Venice Underground Comedy.

Tell us about your art/medium?
We are a combination of burlesque, cabaret, performance art, boylesque, aerial / pole and contortion. We feature a variety of special guests that vary week to week along with one monthly Resident Guest artist.

©Stephen LaMarche

Where do you find inspiration/favorite artists?
We are all constantly inspired by the artists that we perform and share the stage with. It’s also important to go see other shows to support the Los Angeles burlesque community.

How many years, and how did you get into it?
The Bootleg Bombshells (as a group) have been performing in Venice since February of 2013. The Producer, Lulu Mon Dieu went to a Venice Underground Comedy show for an audition (as a soloist). She was hired on the spot and was told to bring her dancers and music the following week! She reached out to a few dancers and the show started the very next week. For the first few weeks we didn’t have a group name or an Emcee, it was rough. With a lot of work and changes made over the years the show has grown and has a large following. The audience is always in for a surprise since you never know what to expect from the show, it changes weekly.

I learned as the show began to grow we had to mirror Venice’s wild, artistic and eclectic energy. The Bombshell show does not showcase classic burlesque as it does not fit the vibe of Venice. We take pride in having a show that is sexy, weird, out of the ordinary and never boring.

What accomplishments or pieces that you are most proud of?
I (Lulu) started this show with no experience as a Producer. I learned so much from working as a Production Assistant for The Floor Show, a multi-faceted music and dance show also in Los Angeles. To now share a stage with performers that were once (and still are) a huge inspiration is such an accomplishment and I feel so humble yet proud when they tell me the Bootleg Bombshells is one of their favorite shows to perform with. I try to allow as much freedom of expression as possible in this show.

Every performer brings something different to the stage from amazing aerial/pole, progressive performance art or audience interaction performances. It’s always a good time for both men and women!

©Stephen LaMarche

What advice would you give someone starting out in your field?
Go to shows, talk to other dancers and producers and see what style works for you. Learn the etiquette!! There are simple yet basic rules any performer should follow. Be on time, be respectful of your peers (especially backstage) and practice! For newcomers, the role of a stage kitten is fantastic because you not only do get a lot of stage time, you can learn about the shows’ ins and outs. Stage kittens’ jobs are so important since they are responsible for picking up discarded items along with setting up props for performers. Learn about cultural appreciation and be aware of how an act should (or should not) be presented in the modern age. A “thought provoking” act does not excuse ignorance. Join burlesque communities on social media.

What’s one thing we can do to make the world a better place?
Lulu (the Producer) is a mom of two girls, 10 & 13. It would be wonderful if we didn’t have to worry about our children’s safety when they are in school. Be kinder, it’s that simple.

List 1-2 things on your bucket list, and 1-2 on your VENICE bucket list?
Perform on bigger stages and get this show on the road! Venice – try new restaurants in the area.

Venice Questions:

Describe Venice?
A multi-cultural, diverse and artistic community where all are welcome.

©Stephen LaMarche

Describe your perfect day in Venice?(start from morning to night)

An early morning walk on the boardwalk, coffee at Menottis, a craft cocktail at the Townhouse with George the bartender and a Hinano burger for dinner !

What Venice places would you take a visiting artist friend?
Besides the Boardwalk a stroll through the Venice Canals is a must.

List any of your favorite Venice businesses, event(s) or activities?
Menottis Coffee Townhouse and Del Monte Animal House Hinano Bike rides on the bike path.

What is your craziest or fondest Venice experience?
I (Lulu) once had a pug named Vinny and everyone knew him. He got lost one winter morning and a few of the homeless dudes on the boardwalk found him for me. I made them a pot of soup to say thank you!!

Anything else about Venice that you would like to say?
Continue to support your local businesses and artists!

Who should Venice Paparazzi cast the spotlight on next?

Venice Underground Comedy – Founders Matt Devlin and Bronston Jones.
George Czarnecki, the bartender at the Townhouse. He’s an amazing person to speak to, a historian and has been there for 25 years.