We took time out to catch up with Rosie Rivette, a local performer, model, and teacher, for a fascinating dive into the magical world of burlesque and all things Rosie.
Interview with Rosie Rivette
Could tell us a little about who you are and what you do?
My name is Rosie Cremer, also known as Rosie Rivette. I do quite a mix of things! I work as a mental health support worker during the day, work as a burlesque performer and art model, run a clothing-optional art class for female-identifying and non-binary participants, and I just commenced a Masters of Art Therapy! (WHEW!)
How did you get into Burlesque performing?
I became very fond of the pin up and vaudevillian culture as I left highschool, always sketching idols like Bettie Page and Josephine Baker, and the more I began to research them, I stumbled across something called called 'Tease-O-Rama' which featured burlesque performers from the 1950's dancing for the camera in front of a red curtain and a sign with their name on it. I loved how charismatic the dancers were, how comfortable they were in their bodies, the way they danced, their costumes etc.
I was totally entranced! After leaving high school I was really eager to continue performing; I loved dance and drama, and this felt like a really exciting way for me to blend those loves together and apply my own personal taste. I started off by doing lessons with a Sydney legend, Sheena Missdemeanour (who runs 'Sydney Vintage Dance Studio'), and created my own little act in my bedroom. I then started working as a stage kitten in order to understand the ins and outs of shows and eventually built up the courage to ask for a spot. The rest is history!
Who are your burlesque/performing idols?
Honestly, it’s hard to say because every performer is so unique in their own way and my style has shifted over the years. Initially it was Bettie Page, now its more subversive and brilliant queer local lengends such as Betty Grumble. My inspirations aren't necessarily burlesque performers either, it's such a mix bag of styles. For instance, I love to focus on comedy and slapstick within my routines, so someone like Dame Edna Evarage, Eartha Kitt or Rowan Atkinson could qualify as idols for me!
Do you need to workout a lot to perform burlesque? If so, what does your workout regime consist of?
Honestly, I believe that working-out has nothing to do with burlesque. There is no one body shape or level of fitness that someone needs to prescribe to in order to do it, as the entire artform is about celebrating diversity - that includes body shape, age, culture, sexual identity, different skill-sets etc.
If you're performing in a tour and your burlesque act is very choreography heavy and requires perfection of technique, flexibility etc., then that takes rehearsal, but it's different for everyone depending on what their 'shtick' is and what kind of training that requires. Sometimes I have to 'workout' my face by literally standing in front of the mirror and pulling ridiculous expressions for ages. Stamina is important, but there are various ways to work on that. When it comes to my personal workout regime, I like dancing or doing Pilates 3-4 times a week - I feel it keeps me feeling strong and limber - but I do this for my mental health above anything else!
Have performing and arts been a passion from childhood?
Yes! My parents are both very creative, My dad is a piano tuner and musician, and mum plays the piano and is a very talented illustrator. They surrounded me with music, dance and art ever since I popped out of mum's belly!
How often do you perform Burlesque, and where can people see you?
Due to the pandemic, performances are only just starting to pop up again! I just recently completed a show (which will return in July) called 'Undressing Hollywood' where I MC'd for the first time, which was very exhilarating! I had to learn script and accent and all! More shows will pop up soon, including Mr Falcon's Burlesque, Royal Heart Review, Bang Bang Variety Club and Heaps Gay - so keep an eye out for those ones!
What is the weirdest venue or is the quirkiest event you have performed at?
Oh there have been MANY! Quirkiest would have to be 'Department H' which is Tokyo's most famous fetish night club. I was touring in an 80's Burlesque-themed dance troupe, and we did our set at something ridiculous like 3am. The costumes blew my mind, I've never seen so much latex and fetishised Anime come to life before!
What does the future look like for Miss Rosie Rivette?
SHE IS MAKING A COME BACK BABY! I felt as though I lay dormant for a while just doing a few gigs here and there, but I'm finally feeling inspired again and have a new act in the works, so watch this space! Art modelling has also become a big part of my life lately too, as well as studying. I'm finally at a point where all my paths seem to be merging together, which is such a relief. I would love one day to create a queer-friendly practice that heals and empowers people through dance and creativity.
Where is the best place for information about your upcoming performances or get in contact with you?
You can find me on instagram @missrosierivette as well as my art class @magnoliasartclass (www.magnoliasartclass.com)