Welcome to episode 1 of the Variety podcast. I have been lucky enough to have worked with some amazing acts over many years. But for me, what has always been fascinating are the stories they have told me before they went on stage - what led them to be a performer, the difficulties they have faced, the hilarious situations they have faced when the act goes badly wrong. I always thought that a peek behind the curtain was as interesting as what went on the stage - that’s why I’ve worked hard to bring this podcast to you today. I hope you enjoy it and let us know your thoughts below.

– Adam Sternberg

Episode Highlights

In this episode, Adam Sternberg sits down with Jolie Papillon, one of the UK's leading burlesque artists. Originally from Rimini, Italy, Jolie shares her journey from training at top theatre and dance schools in Europe to becoming a celebrated burlesque performer in the UK. Adam and Jolie delve into the variety of reactions from audiences, the misconceptions about burlesque, and the significance of embracing authenticity in performance.

Key Discussion Points:

• Early Inspirations: Jolie talks about her upbringing in Rimini, her musical family background, and her early experiences in performance.

• Discovering Burlesque: Learn how Jolie stumbled upon the world of burlesque and cabaret, and how she created her stage persona, Jolie Papillon, for a burlesque competition.

• The Art of Striptease: Jolie discusses the artistry involved in burlesque, from choreography and costume design to the importance of performance and audience interaction.

• Challenges and Triumphs: Hear Jolie's stories of overcoming stage mishaps, dealing with audience reactions, and performing in diverse cultural settings, including in Saudi Arabia.

• Evolving Perceptions: Explore how burlesque is viewed today and the impact of mainstream influences, such as Taylor Swift's "Life of a Showgirl" album.

Interactive Segment:

Glove Peeling 101: Jolie shares a playful demonstration of the art of glove peeling, highlighting the intricacies involved in this classic burlesque move.

Get in touch:

For more insights into Jolie's world visit :

Jolie’s Instagram

Stay updated on future episodes! Find us at @VarietyPodcastOfficial on:

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Join Adam Sternberg next time for another episode of Variety. Thank you for tuning in!

Original title music written by Peter O'Donnell and produced by Chris Burgess.

Welcome to Variety

In this podcast, Adam chats with the people who make live entertainment truly extraordinary – magicians, jugglers, aerial artists, contortionists, and more.

How do you even become a contortionist? What happens when a performance goes wrong? And what makes someone keep chasing the stage instead of a safe nine-to-five?

Variety gives you a front-row seat to their stories, struggles, and the magic behind the scenes.

Coming soon – if you love live entertainment and real stories from remarkable performers, this one’s for you.

Get in touch

Stay updated on future episodes! Find us at @VarietyPodcastOfficial on:

Instagram

YouTube

Tags

live entertainment, performing arts, magicians, jugglers, aerial artists, contortionists, circus arts, performers, backstage stories, creative careers, podcast trailer, arts and culture, storytelling, performance life, behind the curtain

Original title music written by Peter O'Donnell and produced by Chris Burgess.