Category: Events

This Weekend in Second Life Dance

Posted on by R.

Cossette - February 19 2018

Hi there. R. Crap Mariner, your Dance Correspondent.

I’ll be posting dance performance schedules, similar to Inara’s posts about Seanchai Library readings. We’ll start with the weekend events for now.

Let’s get started…

(All times SLT)

Friday February 23

3:00PM – Lady Garden Cabaret

Once again the Minxettes of The Lady Garden Cabaret bring you a show dedicated entirely to the theme of the wonderful “Enchanted” event! This round we pay homage to the love story of “Beauty and the Beast”… Prepare to ‘be our guest’ and wander this poor provincial town fraught with Handsome Gastons and swooning maidens until you are the guest of the Beasts castle!! His staff of wonderful characters will awaken and enlighten you! We have some of the very finest choreographers on the grid, so don’t miss this event Friday, February 23rd at 3PM SLT, a new time!

**First established in March 2011, LGC has been a permanent star on the sky of virtual entertainment and stands for burlesque, neo-burlesque and overall fantastic dance entertainment Vegas style. Get yourself comfortable in our charming little cabaret house, as The Minxettes take you through the night with their amazing set designs and fully choreographed numbers, all inspired and executed by our most talented dancers… You’ll encounter a wide array of musical styles and virtual flavours, in 3 words: “5 star entertainment!”

NO dress code

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Pegasoi/142/109/2222

Lady Garden Cabaret - 6th Anniversary - March 31 2017

6:00PM – ELYSIUM CABARET

Elysium Cabaret – Welcome to the Weekend!

If it’s Friday, it’s Elysium Cabaret! Fancy some imagination? In The Empire Room at Copperhead Road, every Friday at 6pm SLT the dynamic performers of Elysium Cabaret take the stage to bring you a solid hour of entertainment! Featuring elaborate sets and choreography sequenced to an eclectic genre of music, Elysium Cabaret offers something for everyone. Grab your friends and get their early because the sim fills. Come celebrate Friday! Welcome to the weekend!

https://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Copperhead%20Road/74/64/2754

9:00PM – MONARCHS

The Monarchs presents: Adventures from Lost Island

While we prepare our next sim wide experience we offer you a chance to see where the Monarchs began…

Almost 2 years ago we went on a journey, to a magical, mystical place on the verge of conflict, and now we venture back! And you’re invited to join us as we retrace our steps all the way back to LOST ISLAND.

I don’t have an exact SLURL at the time of publication. Watch Dance Queens Calendar for an update.

10:00PM – GUERILLA BURLESQUE

Our special Pit shows in the round are fast becoming an audience favourite and are under the direction of Chrissy Rhiano! Join us because it’s fun, it’s clever, and it would look better with you being part of it! Can’t give away too much, but its exciting dancing and extraordinary concepts! Doors open at 9 pm and the show starts at 10 pm, seating is limited, please arrive early!

https://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Idle%20Rogue/107/189/33

Saturday February 24

12:00PM – OASIS AND DEBAUCHE

Oasis Dancers and Debauche together at stage

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Puntarenas%205/82/111/22

Oasis - January 14 2018

1:00PM – ELYSIUM MATINEE

Elysium Cabaret is thrilled to present a matinée show for your entertainment pleasure, starting at 1pm! Featuring the very “Best Of” the past month’s shows plus special guests! We look forward to sharing our love of music and dance with you!

https://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Copperhead%20Road/74/64/2754

3:00PM – MONARCHS

The Monarchs presents: Adventures from Lost Island

While we prepare our next sim wide experience we offer you a chance to see where the Monarchs began…

Almost 2 years ago we went on a journey, to a magical, mystical place on the verge of conflict, and now we venture back! And you’re invited to join us as we retrace our steps all the way back to LOST ISLAND.

I don’t have an exact SLURL at the time of publication. Watch Dance Queens Calendar for an update.

6:00PM – WHYMSEE NOIR

For the Let’s Dance show, we trade in our sets for MORE dancing and LESS wait time between songs! There will be lots of wiggling, dancing, physics, and a little dazzle thrown in for good measure! Dance along with us or have a seat in our comfy chairs, we like it when you watch! No naked avatars, just dancing. Come to the show and see what all the fuss is about!

https://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Whymsee/96/192/3286

7:00PM – MOULIN ROUGE

LIVE – Soundtrack Favourites Dance Show

Take a trip back through all your favourite movies of the past as we present your favourite soundtracks set to dance. Our wonderful dancers and talented choreographers have come up with a new, original show that will delight and tantalize your senses and take you on a magical journey as if up on the big screen. Hope to see you there!

Semi-formal or formal is always acceptable or dress within theme of the show for the night. Thank you!

https://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Moulin%20Rouge/172/131/31

Moulin Rouge - September 2 2017

7:00PM – DESIRE ARTS

Desire Arts Dancers do a monthly “after hours” show. Starting at 7pm SLT. We bring you the performance quality at our Saturday shows, with more skin… little less costume. Some acts do contain adult content.

As an “Arts” theatre (and gallery) Desire Arts will be a venue perfectly suited for SL Performers wishing to express themselves through live performances, through Dance, Art Exhibits, Performance Art as well as Dramatic Presentations.

Also, Presentations of a controversial nature (including those involving sex, politics and/or religion) will be presented separately from the Dance Program.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Hell%20Lust/174/78/21

7:00PM – DANCE XCETERA

Hi Fans! Welcome to our 2018 performing season! We’ve got some pretty awesome shows scheduled this year and we can’t wait to bring it to the stage for you!

We love starting off the year with our “After Hours” adult themed show. Held only twice a year, our directors tap into that steamy sensual side, and create some amazing performances. Some may be naughty, some may be nice but one thing is for sure, our show is a great way to say goodbye to February 2018, the month of love.

We are also happy to introduce the directing début of DX member Selene Dovahkin and performing débuts of Victory Mueller, & Everleigh Vollmar! Make us your date destination this weekend! Hosted by Ms. Aryanna Draken.

Rated: A for Adult. No children please. We hope to see you there!

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Burning%20Embers/112/97/3602

Sunday February 25

6:00AM – CLUB IMAGE

OPEN 5:30 AM SLT, START 6:00 AM SLT

We have beautiful dance shows on Sundays at 6 am SLT. Join us at Club IMAGE ! It’s worth getting up early! Grab your friends and morning coffee!
Enjoy one of the finest dance shows on Second Life.

https://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Laem%20Singh/193/28/2021

9:00AM – MUSE DANCE COMPANY

Fiddler on the Roof, a musical

Fiddler on the Roof returns to the Muse Theatre! This Tony-winning production, being presented by the | muse | dance company features stunning movements and dance by choreographer Anu Papp. Mark your calendars! You don’t want to this all time favourite show!

https://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Whymsee/118/7/2019

Muse Theatre - Fiddler on the Roof - February 18 2018

12:00PM – SPIRIT LIGHT DANCE COMPANY

Spirit Light Dance Company Presents Showcase 2018

Once a year we encourage members of the company to stretch their wings and present a piece of their own work. Each entrant must choose their music, create the set, get it in a rezzer and on the stage. They either make or source their costumes for their dance. They run the dance HUD and often the mover as well, or if an operator is needed they must train the operator. In all cases they are encouraged and mentored by senior members of the company. This is not a competition but rather an opportunity to strive for personal excellence–to be the best that they can be.

We invite you to join this full cast presentation of 11 outstanding examples of choreographic skill and creative spirit. We recommended that you arrive early to secure a seat and to cache the sets and the animations. Please keep your scripts to 50 or below.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Rockcliffe%20I/120/82/3602

12:00PM – INANNA BURLESQUE

Inanna Burlesque provides a monthly show of sexy ladies that have intoxicating dance moves that will ensure an hour of entertainment. We show a variety of well-choreographed dance movements that will keep you enthralled and wanting more.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Somerton%20Greenwich/100/193/1502

Inanna Burlesque - January 28 2018

12:00PM – LUXE GIRLS AT ELYSION

The Elysion region is a members-only region, so you’ll need to pay a fee to join the group. They have a variety of mixers, deejay events, parties… and when there’s not a show, the region itself is gorgeous and well worth visiting.

5:00PM – MISFIT FOLLIES

Misfit Dance & Performance Art presents: Misfit Follies – A showcase of Theatre Dance Art.

https://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Metanomics/53/173/3073

5:00PM – WINDS OF THE SAHARA

Each Sunday we have a shiny, new show at Winds of the Sahara Theatre. Our dances range from burlesque to performance art and you are sure to be amazed at all of the wonder that sets, costumes and music can create. We’ll put sparkles in your eyes and leave sequins on your shirt collars.

https://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Aladona/124/193/2001

Winds of the Sahara - February 18 2018

6:00PM – KIKI’S HOUSE OF BURLESQUE

Treat yourself and your partner to a day out at our lavish playhouse. Beautiful, dancers swaying to a variety of tunes. Professionally choreographed dances and sets with a wide range of costumes. Entertainment, Topless, Adult, Shows, Cabaret

https://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/LORII%20CAPRONI%20ISLAND/134/179/24

7:00PM – DANCE XCETERA

Hi Fans! Welcome to our 2018 performing season! We’ve got some pretty awesome shows scheduled this year and we can’t wait to bring it to the stage for you!

We love starting off the year with our “After Hours” adult themed show. Held only twice a year, our directors tap into that steamy sensual side, and create some amazing performances. Some may be naughty, some may be nice but one thing is for sure, our show is a great way to say goodbye to February 2018, the month of love.

We are also happy to introduce the directing début of DX member Selene Dovahkin and performing débuts of Victory Mueller, & Everleigh Vollmar! Make us your date destination this weekend! Hosted by Ms. Aryanna Draken.

Rated: A for Adult. No children please. We hope to see you there!

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Burning%20Embers/112/97/3602

Please check with the Dance Queens event calendar for updates and additions to the weekend’s schedule, as well as the many events that happen during the week.

I’ve got interviews and drafts in progress for the following:

  • Paramount Grand Theatre and Desire
  • Debauche
  • Guerilla Burlesque’s Cirq

Lina’s Gypsy Rose Burlesque Theatre

Posted on by R.

Coming up on Saturday March 3rd at 3:00PM SLT, the Gypsy Rose Lee Theatre has its grand opening.

Here’s the show announcement:

Burlesque Dolls of Gypsy Rose Burlesque
Saturday March 3 – 3PM SLT

Welcome to the new Burlesque Dolls Gypsy Rose Burlesque Theatre, a tribute to the icon of classic burlesque: the legendary Gypsy Rose Lee, and carrying on the tradition of Lary Correia’s Burlesque Dolls.

We invite you to our grand opening on Saturday, March 3rd at 3:00PM SLT with a range of wonderful acts by Kyshra, Jilley, Queenie, Alexis, Josephine Jinx, Exhi, Corri, Lina and more! And who can resist the sultry tunes and announcements by the irresistible Diamonique Viper?

There will also be a raffle for a 1000L gift card for the excellent fashions of Devious Mind.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/SkyBeam%20Stowaway/23/40/2000

That’s the TL;DR, but who is Lina (Melina Aurotharius), and with all the venues and dance groups out there, why start a new one? What does it mean to start a new group, and what challenges do they face?

I know I want to know more. So, let’s go exploring, shall we?

Yes, let’s do that…

Gypsy Rose Burlesque

Lina invited me over to the new Gypsy Rose Burlesque theatre… it’s still under construction, but it’s impressive so far.

I asked her how she got her start in SL.

“I used to play for a long time in another avatar based client,” says Lina. “People there were telling me SL could be a great place for me to take my shop and my clothing creations and expand upon what I had already done there, plus it was a lot more technically advanced. So, literally 9 years ago today, I logged into Second Life and never went back to IMVU.”

In your face, IMVU! *cough, cough* (Okay, back to pretending to be a journalist. Think CNN… think CNN…) From a career in clothing, how did she get into dance?

“As far as my start in dance it hit me pretty quick. I was fairly bored in Second Life, and a friend of mine stumbled upon a show while he was out looking for strip clubs. He took me to a show for my birthday and I was hooked. I started going to a few shows a week and I was in awe. I watched dances like Baby and Jilly and Queenie (BabyPea Von Phoenix and Jilley of Empire, and Red Queen of… well, pretty much everywhere!), and thought I NEED to do that. Soon I signed up with Winds (of the Sahara) as an extra and made my debut Oct 2017. From that day I was so hooked I did whatever I could to get on stage and have not stopped.”

And nothing’s going to stop her… nothing going to stop her noooooooooooow!

(Okay, I just had to.)

“Dance for me is an outlet for my creativity in many ways like it is for a lot of us,” she says “For me, I use it almost as a kind of therapy. After the Las Vegas shooting, I did the song “Invincible” by Pat Benatar, for example. Most of my acts are inspired by things I have going on in my life and almost an expression of my emotion and stress I deal with in the outside world.”

Dance Therapy, folks. After years of seeing articles about virtual worlds therapies for PTSD pop up on the feeds, maybe it’s time to get the soldiers up on the movers and dancing? Put down the M-16, pick up the HetaHarper Tools, and feel the rhythm!

Let’s Learn With Lina!

Speaking of the tools of the trade, I then asked Lina if it was hard to learn dance?

“The tools, I am always learning,” she says. “I use the SpotOn tools and learned them pretty quick thanks to their YouTube videos. I will admit though I am still learning all the time, different tricks and methods that make things easier. As far as putting together an act, I listen to Pandora until something comes along that makes me want to move, or until I can “see” it in my mind. Some of my acts come to me in the most unsuspecting places, like while I am driving or in the shower, where I sing the most, so I try to keep a notepad in my phone to keep notes and ideas.”

(I’d just like to point out here that using a phone notepad application in the shower is not a good idea, even if it’s “water resistant.”)

What comes from her moments of Eureka?

“I usually do group acts, however for burlesque, which is my favorite I try to stick to being as traditional as possible. Lady Correia (of Main Event’s Burlesque Dolls) was one of my mentors. My burlesque acts are always solos, and a few times I have done couples acts. I really enjoy using a lot of people in my acts, however, and giving the audience a lot to look at.”

Winds of the Sahara - February 11 2018

(Have you seen my jaw? I dropped it somewhere.)

I was curious about this… when you think burlesque, what do you think? And what’s the real definition of the art of burlesque?

In a world that the media portrays as a forest of dance poles and worse, how does dance performance and burlesque stand out and keep its standards?

Lina explained it for me: “Well anyone who knows me and has seen me on stage knows I am not shy and will do just about anything and… show just about anything if the dance calls for it. Burlesque however when it is performed traditionally is more about the tease than the please, I love the idea of leaving them wanting a little bit … more. I have seen acts that seem more about the dancer just showing off the goods than it is about the art. I have also seem some gorgeous acts that are full striptease. I support any dancer to express themselves as they can imagine, that is what is so beautiful about second life is that limitless boundary of expression.”

And the rewards can be great: “When an act goes great it is almost like a high, the dances don’t crash, your music hits the right spots and the particles rez it is a blast. I try not to take it too seriously. I have not literally cried over a bad night (yet) but when it happens, and it does happen to all of us, I try to take it as a challenge, learn from it and make it better next time. When things do go wrong, ask for help too. the dance community really is a huge family and there is always someone willing to help each other get past a block or a problem.”

Winds of the Sahara - February 11 2018

To give thanks…

As we’ve seen with everything in Second Life, the groups aren’t just groups, And it isn’t just for dance, it’s more like a family…

“They really are and many of us dance at all different venues together. I have seen us support each other through things too in ways that really touch the heart outside of the dance world, family tragedies, illness, marriages and births, we really can be supportive towards each other in ways that go far beyond the keyboard.”

“I did want to be sure to thank everyone who has supported me and encouraged me along the way, especially people like the staff at Winds, A&M and Empire Room who have always made me feel at home and Antonio who has always pushed me to be my best in dance and give me a good kick in the butt when I needed it.

Speaking of Antonio, I asked him for his thoughts on the new place:

[17:44] R.: want to toss in a few quotes?
[17:44] Antonio: who me?
[17:45] Antonio: for her interview nah this is all her, I just support and encourage her, I stay in the background.

The longest journey begins not with a single step, but a kick in the butt.

Winds of the Sahara - February 11 2018

Starve a cold, Antonio a… FEVER!

A kiss to build a dream on…

Which then leads us to why she is starting the new Gypsy Rose Burlesque Theatre:

“I love to watch just the huge variety in dance period. Some people make the creepiest things like tentacles and snakes, which terrify me look amazing and then the next act might me something so beautiful. I find for myself though that burlesque comes most naturally to me. I love the movement and the mood of the tease. I guess that I why I chose to open my own after Lady C closed the Main Event Showroom.”

Main Event - May 27 2017

Lady C’s burlesque was a very special place to many of us, it was a place that would bring you back in time. She made her dance into an art and taught us all to do the same. Feathers and sparkles and lushly textures stages all set to the music that could be anything from tongue in cheek suggestive to some that were cute, or downright sexy. She held her standards high and taught us all how beautiful it is, I felt there was a void left to be filled and jumped on it with the support of my friends encouraging me along the way I am making it happen.
From my early days in Second Life dance I have always kind of had the idea of running a show in the back of my mind.”

It isn’t just “I have a barn, let’s put on a show” for dance, because it takes a whole lot more to put together an event-friendly venue:

“I have picked up little things here and there from different venues I have danced at, I chose a building with simple textures and a design and color scheme that would leave the focus on the stage and hopefully be welcoming to everyone. My main goal is not to fill seats but to have everyone enjoy themselves and want to come back. I want a venue that runs smooth and is relaxed and a place that my dancers and audience wants to return to and looks forward to every month. A venue that does not belong to “me” per say but to all of us who enter those doors.”

So, why the name Gypsy Rose Lee?

“Well the name Burlesque Dolls of Gypsy Rose Theatre is a nod to Lady Corriea. She has been such a huge influence in my dance. When I took her burlesque class she spoke about Gypsy Rose Lee and her style and talents and her influence in the burlesque world. It is my way of thanking Lady C for all she has done for me with her teaching and encouragement.”

What have you got planned for the opening?

“Performances are already planned by Kyshra, Jilley, Queenie, Alexis, Lina, Exhi, Corri, and Josephine Jinx. And a few more that may join in. Diamonique Viper, with that sexy voice from Lady C’s, is the DJ.”

Ohhhhhhh myyyyyyy. Now Diamonique’s voice… yes, yes she is.

She is also planning a give away with a gift card to Devious Mind for L$1000. “Great place, too, I love her designs!”

Let’s wrap this up…

Thank you, Lina. It was wonderful to talk to you about your experiences in Second Life Dance, and I’m looking forward to the grand opening event. I’ll bring my camera along and maybe, you know, might take a few pictures here and there, you know?

You can see her perform at the new Gypsy Rose opening on March 3rd at 3PM. Also, she’s at A&M, Winds of the Sahara, Elysium, Virtuoso, and at the Dance Queens shows (I’ll be posting about the Dance Queens Showcase in the Weekend in Second Life Dance post because it’s a good introduction to the various performers and styles and acts.)

Additional information

So, who wants to be next?

Planets, dragons and essays

Posted on by Inara Pey
Seanchai Library

It’s time to highlight another week of storytelling in Voice by the staff and volunteers at the Seanchai Library. As always, all times SLT, and events are held at the Library’s home at Holly Kai Park, unless otherwise indicated.

 

Monday, February 19th 19:00: Sentenced to Prism

Prism is a planet with a uniquely crystalline environment and which supports both silicon and carbon-based life forms. It is a planet where even the tiniest creatures are living jewels.

For some time, the Company has been illegally exploiting Prism, but now all contact has been lost with the research team there, leaving the Company with a problem. Any attempt to launch a rescue mission will draw unwanted attention both to Prism and to the Company’s activities. Something else must done; so they call on the talents of Evan Orgell.

A smart, self-confident and successful problem-solver, Orgell has access to the best equipment available within the Commonwealth. Unfortunately, and as Orgell discovers, Prism is a harsh and hard place – a lot harder than his state-of-the-art environment suit. When that succumbs to the local flora/fauna, Orgell finds himself exposed to the hostile environment and fighting for his survival without any protection, dependent upon little more than his wits.

Then help arrives from an unexpected quarter: a sentient life-form native to Prism calling itself A Surface of Fine Azure-Tinted Reflection With Pyroxin Dendritic Inclusions – which Orgell decides to call “Azure”.

Join Gyro Muggins as he reads a standalone story from Alan Dean Foster’s Humanx Commonwealth series.

Tuesday, February 20th 19:00: Merlin’s Dragon

Long ago, at the dawn of Merlin’s world, a strange little creature named Basil appeared. Part lizard, part bat, his eyes glow with a mysterious light.

When Basil discovers a threat to his world and to Merlin, he begins an epic journey that takes him from the Great Tree of Avalon to the outermost edges of the spirit realm. But his boldest journey will be to face his own deepest fears. And only if he survives can he save Merlin – and find his future.

So reads the cover description for The Dragon of Avalon, part of T.A. Barron’s Merlin Saga series, a trilogy of stories within the series charting Basil’s rise from humble beginnings to the greatest dragon of all time, loyal to Merlin and protector of Avalon.

Join Faerie Maven-Pralou as she delves in Barron’s magical realm.

Wednesday, February 21st 19:00: How To Look Good At Forty and Overthrow Your  Government

We all know, because we’ve been told, that 40 ish is a difficult time for the smart lady about town.  You are not young.  You are so definitely not young!  Ha ha, you said young like it might apply to you, you are RIDICULOUS.  But also, you are not old.  Not really.  These days, 50 is the new 40, so essentially 40 is the new 30 and you are both 40 and 30 and you have gone back in time to warn your 30-year-old self about the wtf is about to happen sometime around 2016, because 40 is the new 12 Monkeys.  I mean, you are basically 20.  Times have changed.  Fiona Bruce is 53 and she barely has to think about her age as a TV presenter.  It’s a pretty sweet deal for women now – they get to present programs with old things, so that they can place a tiny piece of their soul into every ancient artefact that they touch on the Antiques Roadshow and Fake or Fortune, like a Horcrux, making their human form immortal.  Then they are allowed to remain on TV.

So opens How To look Good At Forty and Overthrow Your Government, a humorous, superb essay  – and rallying call? – for Women of a Certain Age by Crappy Living. Rich in imagery (and a lot of decidedly British references!), the piece is read by Aoife Lorefield.

Thursday, February 22nd:

19:00 Monsters and Myths: Sirens

With Shandon Loring. Also presented in Kitely (hop://grid.kitely.com:8002/Seanchai/144/129/29).

21:00 Seanchai Late Night

Contemporary sci-fi with Finn Zeddmore.

 

Please check with the Seanchai Library’s blog for updates and for additions or changes to the week’s schedule.

The featured charity for January / February 2018 is Reach Out and Read, giving young children a foundation for success by incorporating books into paediatric care and encouraging families to read aloud together.

This Weekend in Second Life Dance

Posted on by R.

One Billion Rising - February 14 2018

Hi there. R. Crap Mariner, your Dance Correspondent.

I’ll be posting dance performance schedules, similar to Inara’s posts about Seanchai Library readings. We’ll start with the weekend events for now.

And, yeah, I’ll try to get this up On Friday morning, not Saturday morning. Sorry, Elysium Cabaret!

Let’s get started…

(All times SLT)

Friday February 16

10:00AM – Misfit Follies

Misfit Dance & Performance Art presents: Misfit Follies – A showcase of Theatre Dance Art.

https://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Metanomics/53/173/3073

6:00PM – Elysium Cabaret

Elysium Cabaret – Welcome to the Weekend!

If it’s Friday, it’s Elysium Cabaret! Fancy some imagination? In The Empire Room at Copperhead Road, every Friday at 6pm SLT the dynamic performers of Elysium Cabaret take the stage to bring you a solid hour of entertainment! Featuring elaborate sets and choreography sequenced to an eclectic genre of music, Elysium Cabaret offers something for everyone. Grab your friends and get their early because the sim fills. Come celebrate Friday! Welcome to the weekend!

https://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Copperhead%20Road/74/64/2754

Elysium Cabaret - February 9 2018

Saturday February 17

1:00PM – Dance Queens Showcase

(NOTE: If you’re looking for a good introduction to dance performance in Second Life, this is a good sampler of a lot of excellent performers and groups)

Join us for this special event as some of the best dancers and choreographers from around the grid come together to celebrate the love of dance. A beautiful variety of acts from class to sass and everything in between, gathering for the sole purpose of entertainment and awe.

Things are a bit different this time but same kind of fun! This time the directors will be Immy (imrhien.fargis) and Tray Porthos. The DJ will be Ame (amethyst.starostin).

https://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/This%20Sim/174/178/3505

1:00PM – Moonstone Theatre

(NOTE: If DQ is full, head over to here. Klark puts together a rock-solid group of performances. I’m hoping that someone’s filming it while I’m at the DQ show.)

Moonstone Theatre presents: Iconic Music and Dance Scenes
A collaboration from choreographers across the grid.

https://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Reed%20Valley/145/84/1501

3:00PM – Centre Stage

From Broadway to Burlesque and everything in between, Centre Stage brings you a feast for the senses served by its all male cast of Choreographers, Dancers and Set Designers. A variety for your entertainment! We offer touring performances as well as having our home venue. Everyone welcome! No dress code.

Please Join Us for Our Premiere Performance.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Isle%20of%20Fire/96/136/3504

Centre Stage

6:00PM – Whymsee Noir

For the Let’s Dance show, we trade in our sets for MORE dancing and LESS wait time between songs! There will be lots of wiggling, dancing, physics, and a little dazzle thrown in for good measure! Dance along with us or have a seat in our comfy chairs, we like it when you watch! No naked avatars, just dancing. Come to the show and see what all the fuss is about!

https://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Whymsee/96/192/3286

7:00PM – Moulin Rouge

LIVE – Great Legends

This Show showcases songs of Talented Stars that left us before their time. We have decided to honor those talented trail blazers that braved the trail for us: and left their mark on our hearts.

Semi-formal or formal is always acceptable or dress within theme of the show for the night. Thank you!

https://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Moulin%20Rouge/172/131/31

7:00PM – Desire Arts

(NOTE: I’ve had some interesting and eye-opening conversations with Pathmaker, which will appear here in an article. If you’re into the erotic or challenging side of performance art, you do not want to miss this one. And if you’re not, this might get you interested in that aspect of Second Life performance. // If you miss this show, most of the acts will return next week for the encore performance.)

Desire Arts Dancers do a monthly “after hours” show. Starting at 7pm slt. We bring you the performance quality at our Saturday shows, with more skin… little less costume. Some acts do contain adult content.

As an “Arts” theatre (and gallery) Desire Arts will be a venue perfectly suited for SL Performers wishing to express themselves through live performances, through Dance, Art Exhibits, Performance Art as well as Dramatic Presentations.

Also, Presentations of a controversial nature (including those involving sex, politics and/or religion) will be presented separately from the Dance Program.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Hell%20Lust/174/78/21

Sunday February 18

6:00AM – Club IMAGE

OPEN 5:30 AM SLT, START 6:00 AM SLT

We have beautiful dance shows on Sundays at 6 am SLT.  Join us at Club IMAGE ! It’s worth getting up early! Grab your friends and morning coffee!
Enjoy one of the finest dance shows on Second Life.

https://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Laem%20Singh/193/28/2021

(NOTE: Get there early. Fills fast. Set your particles to eleventy billion.)

Club Image - February 4 2018

9:00AM – Muse Dance Company

(NOTE: Anu Papp of Muse Dance Company and I talked a while back, and the article is here. // I saw a preview of this one, and it’s excellent. There will be an encore performance next week, and I hope they sneak in an extra on-demand performance if the sims are full each time.)

Fiddler on the Roof, a musical

Fiddler on the Roof returns to the Muse Theater! This Tony-winning production, being presented by the | muse | dance company features stunning movements and dance by choreographer Anu Papp. Mark your calendars! You don’t want to this all time favorite show!

https://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Whymsee/118/7/2019

Photos for Muse Interview at ModemWorld.me

12:00PM – Oasis

Re-Opening Concert Hall – and after party with DJ Maik

https://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Standing%20Ovation/92/119/2001

1:00PM – Debauche

NOTE: I’ve got an interview in the works for Laura and Severina for this group, and I’m looking forward to getting it polished up and ready for y’all.

Debauche return once again to the beautiful theatre at Rookswood. So humbled, so honoured that this was built specially for us. We always have a great show at Rookswood with a wonderful, lively atmosphere and a great audience. Why not come and share in the Debauchery with us?

Dress smart casual please.

https://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Neomah/109/71/25

Debauche - February 11 2018

4:00PM – Kiki’s House of Burlesque

(NOTE: I caught the season opener of this lineup, and it’s their 5th anniversary show. Really good and racy, costumes well selected and sparse, excellent sets… get there early.)

Treat yourself and your partner to a day out at our lavish playhouse. Beautiful, dancers swaying to a variety of tunes. Professionally choreographed dances and sets with a wide range of costumes. Entertainment, Topless, Adult, Shows, Cabaret

https://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/LORII%20CAPRONI%20ISLAND/134/179/24

5:00PM – Winds of the Sahara

(NOTE: Lina performs here a lot, and I’ve got an article on her new Gypsy Rose Burlesque Theater coming soon.)

Each Sunday we have a shiny, new show at Winds of the Sahara Theater. Our dances range from burlesque to performance art and you are sure to be amazed at all of the wonder that sets, costumes and music can create. We’ll put sparkles in your eyes and leave sequins on your shirt collars.

https://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Aladona/124/193/2001

7:00PM – The Art Factory

The Art Factory presents Latin Nights

Music by Pitbull, Ricky Martin, Shakira, and More!

https://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Josina/187/161/21

The Art Factory - Latin Nights - February 7 2018

Please check with the Dance Queens event calendar for updates and additions to the weekend’s schedule, as well as the many events that happen during the week.

One Billion Rising in Second Life 2018

Posted on by Inara Pey
One Billion Rising – 2LEI

One Billion Rising in Second Life will once again be taking place in Second Life on Wednesday, February 14th, 2018. Over the last couple of weeks, work has been progressing on putting the event and its regions together – and having had the good fortune to be able to tour the event’s four regions, this year promises to be stunning in the range of art on offer, together with a beautiful setting in which people can come together.

When launched on Valentine’s Day 2012, One Billion Rising (OBR) was the biggest mass action in human history; a call to action based on the staggering statistic that 1 in 3 women on the planet will be beaten or raped during her lifetime. With the world population at 7 billion, this adds up to more than one billion women and girls who are at risk. OBR aims to bring people together, raise greater awareness of the plight of those at risk the world over, and bring about a fundamental change in how vulnerable and defenceless women and girls are treated.

One Billion Rising – Terra Merhyem and TheDove Rhode

Starting at midnight (00:00) SLT on the 13th/14th February, OBR in Second Life will run a full 24-hours throughout  February 14th, closing at 23:59pm SLT on Wednesday night. Throughout that time there will music and dancing at the central main stage area, with poetry, dance performance and live performers also part of the overall event. There will also be the art displays across the four regions and two special activities, the #MeToo Forest and the White Rose Challenge.

The #MeToo Forest

The MeToo Forest is a collaborative art piece both honouring the MeToo hashtag which has allowed so many women around the world to share their stories. There is a standing invitation for Second Life residents to share their stories, messages and poems. These will be attached to the trees so that visitors to the forest can witness the stories and messages of others as they explore this quiet and beautiful space.

One Billion Rising 2018 – #MeToo Forest

The White Rose Challenge

The White Rose Pin by Kilik Lekvoda

Time’s Up is a unified call for change from women in entertainment for women everywhere. Founded on January 1, 2018 by Hollywood celebrities in response to the Weinstein effect and #MeToo, it is symbolised by the wearing of white.

For OBR 2018 in Second Life, a special white rose pin, beautifully made by Kilik Lekvoda, has been commissioned to show support for Time’s Up.

Unique to the event, the pin can be obtained by travelling around the One Billion Rising regions and counting the number of white rose bushes (kindly provided by Lilith Heart of Heart Botanicals) which are scattered between the art installations, in the corner parks and the #MeToo Forest.

When you think you have the number (of bushes, remember – not individual flowers). Go t one of the four OBR landing zones and use the mail box there to post your total – your name will be automatically recorded with your total.

Event Schedule and Artist Details

The full OBR event scheduled, and information on participating artists can be found via the following links:

For special background information on the OBR 2018 dance performances, please read R. Crap Mariner’s Who Puts the Dance Into One Billion Rising, published in these pages.

One Billion Rising – 2D Gallery

Why Dance?

A critique sometimes levelled at OBR / OBR in SL is that the issues it raises cannot be solved by dance. Well, that’s absolutely true, just as marching through the streets carrying placards and banners is unlikely to have a lasting impact on whatever it is people might be marching about.

However, like marches and protests, dance and music does serve to draw attention to matters. It provides a means by which people are encouraged to stop and think, and for information and ideas disseminated. What’s also important is that it’s a lot harder to see dancing as a threat than might be the case with an organised march or protest – something to take into consideration with countries in which the right to march or protest freely does not exist.

One Billion Rising

Related Links

Who puts the Dance into One Billion Rising?

Posted on by R.

 

OBR Logo for article on ModemWorld.Me

It’s your Dance Correspondent, R. Crap Mariner.

Coming up on February 14th, it’s One Billion Rising! From their announcement:

For the fifth year, on February 14, 2018, men and women in Second Life will join activists, writers, thinkers, celebrities, and people across the world to Rise, Resist and Unite as a show of unity, individual strength, and the need for change.

The Second Life event will feature a four-region stage where 200 people can come together to dance, surrounded by an area of art installations, an arena for poetry and dramatic productions, and informational exhibits. A variety of performers will play over the 24-hour period and poetry and dramatic events will be held at different times, enabling people all over the world to attend this virtual event no matter their timezone. The regions will have a General maturity rating to allow all residents an opportunity to participate.

That’s the TL;DR, and Inara’s covered all the bigger-picture vision and mission of One Billion Rising, but how does dance figure into it? (Because, after all, I’m a Dance Correspondent, right?)

Instead of just tossing out a few #metoo hashtags and sharing Uma Thurman’s interview on Facebook, I went to the source. I turned to Aelva, the Dance Coordinator for One Billion Rising. She runs The Night Theatre dance group, and I’ve seen her magic and mastery of hand particles in her performances with Shadows Silhouettes, Lady Garden Cabaret, and Elysion’s Luxe Girls, among other groups.

I know I want to know more. So, let’s go exploring, shall we?

Who are you?

The Night Theater - July 29 2017

Before we got into One Billion Rising, I wanted to learn more about the artist in the middle of the drafting table. I asked Aelva about herself and her dance experiences in Second Life. “Well, I did ballet and synchro swimming when I was young. I always had a love for dance, musical, ballet, and theatre. – I was rather odd as a child. But RL me, I can’t handle dancing these days.”

And art itself wasn’t a priority then. “I work in administration. I studied economy, boring, boring, but it got a job that paid the bills, and that was what counted. Arts was not considered something to make a living off. So, you did in your spare time. For fun.”

Club Image - July 16 2017

“When I got into SL, I was starting to get pretty sick RL. I have always loved arts and crafts, but I lost my ability to do them at that point. So SL became my creative outlet.”

It didn’t take her long to find dance as a creative outlet…

“I came across dancing in sl in my first couple of weeks here and got hooked right away,” she said. “I never meant to be on the stage myself, I too much of a recluse for that by nature. But I ended up with too many ideas and I just had to realize them. A friend more or less had to push me on stage.”

And why do you do what you do?

Any why does she dance? Because she has to… “For me, this creativity, the flow of the movements, keep my mind together. It allows me to express and be so many things I otherwise would be too limited to do. It is freedom, sanity, pain-relief, joy and sadness all in one. It is a kind of obsession, I guess. There are just too many things evolving in my mind that have to get out. If I didn’t, I would probably be even more bonkers than I already am.”

In addition to performing with other groups, she has her own dance group called The Night Theatre. “SL dance is my passion. And The Night Theatre is my own Theatre and where my creativity flows free.”

The Night Theater

Creativity flows from moments of inspiration, and where does she find it? Everywhere!

“It won’t leave me alone, damn it!” she says. “If I go shopping, I think in costumes. If I listen to music, I think of possible acts for the songs, and those can have several options. I always loved stories, mythology, fairy tales – so that is what I want to portray. I do love magic, and I do love expression and drama. But I want to do it in my own voice, not mimic somebody else’s vision.

“I get bored doing the same thing. I like using all the tools in the box, all the crayons. But, I think main focus in any act should be the dance choreography and the story that tells. Everything else is an enhancement to that story and to the movement. Enhancement, not distraction. If a choreography is well done, you don’t need much more than a black stage and the dancer and the music.”

Luxe - Le Cirque Des Reves - January 27 2018

OBR

Then, I asked her how she got her start with the One Billion Rising cause. “Well, after performing at Burn one year, many moons ago, I was approached by Saffia (Widdershins) who asked me if I would want to help her bring a dance show to OBR too. She told me about the movement and I read up on the web page links and felt it was something I wanted to be part of. So I grabbed a bunch of dancing friends and set up a show. “That year, it was just one proper dance show. And the Changhigh sisters, and Tansee on particles at 2Lei booth.”

15 feb_047

14 Feb_060

14 Feb_134
(Photos: Aelva)

And grown it has! “This year we have 6 shows booked during the day at the Dance stage, and Tansee at 2Lei’s booth too. And 2 of the dance shows are variety shows with a mix of dancers.”

(Check the schedule for the performance times… I see MAHAL starting at 6am SLT. And I just got an invite from my friend Vee about the Nouveau Ensemble performing at 4pm SLT, so those groups are pretty excited to be performing on Wednesday. Aelva says the last show should be ending around 6:30pm SLT.)

Hrm...

But with growth, challenges come. “The event itself spans over a full 24 hours on 4 sims, with constant performances, DJs, art exhibits, poetry, always something going on. It means everybody has to work together, cooperate and dive in where it is needed.

With big events like SLB and RFL, there’s weeks to prepare, but not with One Billion Rising. “The sims are not up all that long either. We get access to them about 4 days before the event. I that time we have to decorate the 4 sims, rig the infrastructure and make sure all the performers and artists get installed properly too.”

At the end of the road, it’s worth it for the team. “It is a bit of a marathon that usually ends with a bunch of giggling half awake ladies at midnight when the event ends. They are a pretty funny bunch of ladies. Very different characters but all with the same passion for this movement and it really takes the full team to pull this together.”

Pulling together, supporting each other. That’s what One Billion Rising is about. The challenge of the event logistics never obscures the depth of its meaning:

“I love seeing so many performers come together and bond over a common cause like this It feels like it is an event that matters, that empower us and gives us comfort and hope for a better future. Even if in small ways.”

What does the event mean for you? “I have some bad experiences in my past. It is not a secret. I believe in sharing, with communication about these things and speaking up, we can bring more understanding and knowledge to the world around us. No problem has ever been solved by ignoring it. I also know many of my closest family and friends have similar experiences. And I do this for them, my daughters, and me. To empower, comfort and for hope of a better world for the next generations.”

There are so many stories out there, and One Billion Rising will give many in Second Life an opportunity to share them with others and empower women to defend themselves against would-be aggressors, or see strength in reporting assaults that have happened. Coming together to dance builds trust and shared purpose, and with trust comes solidarity and unity. Because standing alone in the shadows, the longer you wait, the more victims your would-be attacker will prey upon, compounding the guilt and shame.

(Video: Trytofight)

There are so many stories out there, and One Billion Rising will give many in Second Life an opportunity to share them with others and empower women to defend themselves against would-be aggressors, or see strength in reporting assaults that have happened. Coming together to dance builds trust and shared purpose, and with trust comes solidarity and unity. Because standing alone in the shadows, the longer you wait, the more victims your would-be attacker will prey upon, compounding the guilt and shame.

Let’s bring it home!

Thank you, Aelva, it was wonderful to talk to you and learn more about you and your art in the One Billion Rising event, and find strength from you sharing your experience. And I hope that the readers mark their calendars for this epic event, whether it’s to participate in the dances, listen to and read poetry, or to enjoy the art builds. (Group joins and SLURLs will be at OBR’s website when they launch in a few days, okay?)

Not only can you catch Aelva with Elysion’s Luxe Girls and the other dance groups she performs with, but she is also planning events for Fantasy Faire coming up in a few months. So if your dance group has an idea for this year’s event, get in touch with her and let her know what visions you have to share. (I’ll do a follow-up post on Fantasy Faire dance soon, okay? I’m running out of typewriter ribbon.)

Additional Information

FULL DISCLOSURE:
I once built an art piece for OBR back in 2014 when someone mistook me for an artist. Thankfully, fewer people mistake me for an artist these days. It lets me nap a lot more.

So… who wants to be next?