The Schlep sisters have been making a splash on the New York burlesque scene. Find out how they’re representing Jewish burlesque dancing.
The Schlep Sisters and Jewish Burlesque Dancing
Probably the best known Jewish burlesque dancer around at the moment is Miss Indigo Blue. She’s Miss Exotic World 2011, headmistress of the Academy of Burlesque in Seattle and the creator of BurlyCon.
Now, Minnie Tonka and Darlinda Just Darlinda have been putting Jewish burlesque on the map with their burlesque duet, The Schlep Sisters. The pair are known for performing as dysfunctional long-lost sisters.
The Schlep Sisters united in 2004 and have been performing ineternationally ever since. These lovely ladies have even been seen at the Burlesque Hall of Fame and in their month-long Australian tour.
The duo are also founders and co-producers of Dangerous Curves Ahead: Burlesque on the Go-Go! No wonder both were voted into 21st Century Burlesque‘s top 50 burlesque industry figures of 2012.
Talking to the Jewish Daily Forward, Darlinda Just Darlinda said, “Jews will always be pointing to themselves onstage.”
She added, “Unless there is an absence of culture completely… maybe after the zombie apocalypse.”
Minnie Tonka also said, “It’s healthful and playful, and many women thank us.” And we can see why.
Menorah Horah!
Each year the pair put on their Menorah Horah! revue. The show sees them joined by Little Brooklyn, Bastard Keith, The Maine Attraction, Maddy Mann & Lexi Miller, The Evil Hate Monkey and Dot Mitzvah. Last year they even got eight lucky hopefuls to compete for a place in their ranks.
We can only hope they make it to the UK soon, especially with Hanukkah on the way. Watch The Schlep Sisters burlesque dancing in their Menorah Horah! Hanukkah celebration:
(Main image from Highline Ballroom)
