Bravo Brisbane recently sat down for an exclusive interview with internationally revered talent scout Donatella ‘Don’ D’Bauch (Victoria Posner) to discuss InsideOutside Theatre Company’s upcoming season of The Belles of Burlesque written by Liam Donnelly.

Don’s legendary eye has brought the very best erotic artists to the stage. Growing up with an obsession for the Moulin Rouge, Don knew her future would be in the theatre. Fortunately for her, she was born into the incredibly wealthy D’Bauch dynasty and with the family having a penchant for throwing the world’s most wild parties, she has been able to perfect her skills. Don couldn’t be prouder to finally be returning to Brisbane and bringing with her the world’s most alluring entertainers for The Belles of Burlesque.   

Why Brisbane?

I have always had a soft spot for the sense of community to be found in Brisbane. Everywhere I have gone I have been welcomed as if I am an old friend. It is fair to say that I have never quite felt more at home than I have in Brisbane, and the nightlife has more than lived up to its reputation. I do believe our resident Brisbane Belle – Ms. Sophia Benoit (Eleanor Crosse) – has been more than helpful in assisting me to explore some of the best hotspots in town.

What will wow the audience the most?

I think that every one of the Belles bring something quite special to the show. We’ve got someone for everyone, and I doubt that anyone will go home without feeling that all their desires are satisfied. Particularly, the seductive allure of Esther Neveu (Chloe Boike) – Chicago’s best export since Roxy Hart – is sure to make everyone in the audience come back begging for more.

What will shock the audience the most?

Well shock is always on the cards when you have such a diverse troupe of titillating talent. I do believe that our resident Dutchman in Drag, the ravishing Rutger Gabor (Rhys Becks), is sure to set the room alight. Let’s just say that you’ll definitely want to keep an eye on your partners, they may not be able to resist.

What has been the biggest challenge in bringing the Belles to life?

Definitely the biggest challenge has been trying to acquire our ensemble of erotic entertainers. I only accept the very best and can assure audiences no expense has been spared in securing them world class entertainment. We have been quite fortunate to find some of Brisbane’s brightest burlesque stars. Particularly the enrapturing charms of the Red Headed Temptress, Ms Lucy Del Leche (Rita Scarlett). Let’s just say that no right-thinking gentleman will ever prefer blondes after seeing her moves.

Why Burlesque?

I believe that in the year that has been 2020, everyone is craving a bit of fun for their night out. Nothing to me sounds better than watching some of the sexiest performers in the world do what they do best. Burlesque is a style of performance that no matter who you are, you will always find something you love.

What is your favourite moment of the show?

If I had to pick just one, I’d have to say seeing everything that Ilsa Roth (Rachel Matthews) has to offer. Let’s just say that it was too hot for her hometown in Frankfurt to handle, so definitely everyone in the crowd is in for a treat.

When you have a five-minute break in rehearsals, what do you do?

I am always on the lookout for new talent to exhibit in my erotic extravaganzas and with my reputation for hosting the most legendary night of thrills, I find myself hounded by performers constantly. So, on my breaks you will usually find me being chatted up by the world’s sexiest people. It’s a tough job but someone has to do it.

What is your best rehearsal memory?

I will never forget when the Doctor of Desire (and my personal physician), Cillian Cosgrove (Aidan Cobb) showed me the song his band – Sexual Preference – will be performing.  Suffice to say he’s done nothing but exceed my wildest dreams, but I guess that shouldn’t be surprising; he is one of the world’s greatest rock stars after all.

What will the audience be thinking about in the car as they drive home?

Our beloved audience will struggle to think of anything else for the next few days after the show. I daresay that the ladies will be thinking of nothing but the rock…solid…..abs of the marvellous Marcus Matthius (Matt Domingo), and I’d like to see the man who won’t become instantly enraptured by Nicola Marella (Gillian Grace) – but careful boys, London’s Favourite Showgirl knows how to crack her whip.

The Belles of Burlesque, written by Liam Donnelly, is directed by Victoria Posner and choreographed by Rhiannon Brown and Leona McLearie. The show also features music arranged and directed by Wendy Bird, technical direction and lighting design by Tristan Holland, sound design by Curtis Lisch and Gregg Goriss as Techical Operator. Produced by Angela Witcher from InsideOutside Theatre Company with the support of Production Manager Courtney Farrar and Stage Manager Brylee D Santo, The Belles of Burlesque is sure to entertain and enlighten audiences.

The Belles of Burlesque will perform at The Old Museum from Thursday 3 December until Friday 11 December 2020. Tickets are on sale now – https://oldmuseum.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/1713

Image: Steve Fu Photography