Sukki Singapora is Asia’s answer to Dita Von Teese. She made her first breakthrough in the Burlesque industry in 2011 in the United Kingdom, and since then, she became one of the most talked-about and in-demand Burlesque artists around the world.
Crowned as “Ambassador of Burlesque for Singapore”, Sukki is all recognized as the World’s first “Professional Burlesque Performer from Singapore”. She’s even been praised by the former UK Prime Minister’s wife, Cherie Blaire! Known for her lavish and elaborate performances, Sukki marries her costumes and performances with a touch of Bollywood glamor from her Indian heritage.
We got up close and personal with the Burlesque maven to share her thoughts on the Burlesque industry in Asia, and what it takes to be a Burlesque star.
Q. How did you get into Burlesque performing?
I started Burlesque a couple of years ago – I’d always enjoyed performing as I’d trained in classical ballet from an early age, so getting into Burlesque was something which came quite naturally to me. It was through vintage fashion that I found out about stars such as Barbara Yung, Kalani Kokonuts and of course Dita (Von Teese). Vintage fashion and burlesque often go hand in hand – and once I’d discovered a love for one, I simply couldn’t help wanting to try the other!
Q. Every Burlesque performer has an identity or a certain look they channel. How would you describe yours, and what are your signature routines?
Indeed, every performer has their own style, however the emphasis they place on it can be varied. For me, incorporating my heritage and Singaporean culture into my look and performances is extremely important to me. Every costume, for example, will include at least one element from an original sari – so when I perform I feel like I’m truly bearing my soul. I’m meticulously passionate about my performances and look.
Q. You’ve performed around the world, including Europe and Asia. Are there are differences between the Asian crowd and European one?
Of course, both crowds who come to see my shows are equally enthusiastic and appreciative of the art, which is fantastic. I suppose the only difference is that when I perform in some parts of Asia often I have to tone down the degree of nudity, which is a shame. I think that tastefully choreographed performances can be extremely elegant without a need to fixate on something as superficial such as how much “bottom” is on show. But having said that, times are certainly changing, especially in Singapore.
Q. Clearly, Burlesque has a very enigmatic way of helping people express their sense of creativity and sexuality. Has Burlesque ever helped you express something about yourself?
I continually find I can express my creativity through Burlesque. All my routines and costumes are inventions of my imagination, which on the one hand can take up so much time, but on the other is a wonderful outlet for art.
Q. What is the most common misconception about Burlesque in the world, and what do you hope for the future of Burlesque, especially in Asia?
I suppose the most common misconception is that Burlesque is a nude striptease. Especially in Singapore, people are becoming more aware of legendary strippers such as Rose Chan (who performed nude with pythons) and they immediately fear that what I do is going to be considered as pornographic, and will consist of nudity on stage. Yet although I’ve the utmost respect for women such as Rose Chan, this is not the case. In some of my performances, there is no striptease element, in others there is. My hope is that by talking about it, Burlesque – especially in Asia – will grow to be something wonderful, and not something frowned upon. In time I hope people will appreciate all forms of Burlesque, and understand that it’s about the beauty of the tease, not the reveal.
Q. What does it take to be a Burlesque star these days?
For me it helps to have an individual style, be a strong woman (or man), know and be comfortable with your body, and most of all love performing. I truly enjoy every performance, and it’s important to me to make each show unique – beauty exudes from those who are unique
Catch a glimpse of her performances here:
To learn more about Sukki Singapora, check out her official website www.SukkiSingapora.com, or follow her on Facebook.
(For Bookings: info@SukkiSingapora.com)
