On this episode, we have Erin O’Brien, co-author of a new book chronicling burlesque entertainment in Cleveland called Rust Belt Burlesque – The Softer Side of a Heavy Metal Town, which is out now. It traces the history of burlesque in Cleveland from the mid-1800s to the present day, while also telling the story of Bella Sin, a Mexican immigrant who largely drove Northeast Ohio’s neo-burlesque comeback. The historical center of Cleveland burlesque was the iconic Roxy Theater on East Ninth Street. Here, in its 20th-century heyday, famed dancers like Blaze Starr and comics like Red Skelton and Abbott and Costello entertained both regulars and celebrity guests.
Erin O’Brien’s lively storytelling and Bob Perkoski’s color photos give readers a peek into the raucous Ohio Burlesque Festival that packs the house at the Beachland Ballroom every year. Today’s burlies come in all shapes, ethnicities and orientations, drawing a legion of adoring fans.
O’Brien will be doing book signings Thu 7/11 @ 6:30-8 pm at B-Side Liquor Lounge in Cleveland Heights and Sun 7/21 @ 1-3pm at Loganberry Books on Larchmere Blvd.
We also have music from Kevin Conaway (pictured above), who will be performing at Geneva-on-the Lake Brewing on Fri 7/12.
And a new track from Canton’s The Scenic Route (pictured above), who will be playing live at Gametime Bar & Grill in Canton on Fri 7/12 and Women Rock CLE at the House of Blues on Sat 7/20.
