Circ X, the traveling Miami-based performance group, is trying to change the local arts scene with a regular burlesque show at the Fillmore at the Jackie Gleason Theater. But in order for this dream to be a reality, the group is asking the people of Miami to help out by donating to its Kickstarter campaign.
Diana Lozano is the founder and owner of Circ X, a organization that came about in 2002. Lozano said that Circ X can be best described as, "one part circus, two parts burlesque, a pinch of class and a dash of trash."
The idea is to create an affordable and mainstream burlesque option in South Florida, something that the group thinks is lacking.
"I have always loved the raw and visceral energy you get from performing in the night club world. However, most of the entertainers I encountered from this world lacked the discipline and follow through of someone who has been traditionally trained," Lozano said. "What would happen if we took that same energy and combined it with the discipline of a conservatory-trained professional? It is with this vision and thought process that Circ X was conceived."
In 2012, the group preformed their tenth anniversary "retro-spectacle" on the Main Stage at the Fillmore in front of a large crowd. They used Kickstarter to help raise funds for that event as well.
So far, they have raised enough money to pay for the venue and technical crew needed to pull off two separate one-hour shows.
But they still need to pay the performers. (They would probably like to eat.)
One of those performers is Natasha Tsakos, an old friend of Lozano's from when they both attended the New World School of the Arts.
"To be honest, I wasn't even sure I could perform in the show. I have been pursuing my own career and projects, but Diana is family," Tsakos said of her reason for getting involved in the push for a regular Miami burlesque show.
Tsakos also liked the way that the group was going about raising money.
"Crowdfunding is the way to go," Tsakos said. "We can talk directly to our fans and give them the power to support. It's exciting!"
Lozano said that she was determined to make burlesque work in Miami.
"With a city so rich in fringe culture, I think it's a shame that our Miami artists don't have an outlet other than night clubs where they would be considered lucky to be performing for 'exposure' and drink tickets," Lozano said. "I believe a legitimate platform for these artists is in great need and Miami is hungry for it's own cabaret."
The two shows will take place on Sept. 20 with tickets starting at $15.
And while the Kickstarter goal is $3,000, the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation has promised to match each dollar raised. As of the publication of this post, over $1,700 has been donated.
For more information about Circ X or to donate, you can visit the group's Kickstarter page.
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