Uncomitted family/friends?

[Tabby von Terror {★}]

Does anyone else have this problem?

I'm in a dance group that is a combo of Cabaret style theater and dance with very burlesque aspects of show and dance as well; We're called The Caburlesque Kittens. We do a variety of shows-all through the year, usually they're at different venues and the show is different just about every time. We now have a monthly home now and we do a different themed show every month (minus January) usually corresponding to the month or what holiday is coming up (Bedtime stories in November, Santa's Naughty List in December, Look of love in Feb, etc)

Anyway, my big dilemma is the fact that very few of my friends or family have come to see the shows. I've been in this group for about a year, we've had over a dozen shows... and i can count the few people who are close in my life on less than one hand who have come to one of my shows. My best friend has only been to 2 shows (at not so great venues so they didnt even see a SHOW). They know that its a different experience, and they (as far as I know) are totally down with what we do. And still....

I understand that people don't have time, or cant get it off work, or don't have the money...but when there's a different show at the same time at the same venue for the past 4 months, and AMAZINGLY cheap tickets (or even offered a comp if they buy one-or sometimes a straight up comp) and happy hour deals, as well as access to the club that goes on after our show...You would think they would come...

I'm not sure how to approach this with them, or what to do. It sucks to get off stage after an amazing show, and know maybe 2 people (besides our few regulars) in the crowd. It isnt about selling tickets-we dont need to sell out the venue. I'mm just trying to find a way to tell my friends that i really want them at the show, at least once in a while :(

help?

-Tabby von Terror

[Cupcake Terror]

While your adventure into burlesque may be exciting and fun for you... it certainly isn't for everyone. Maybe your family and friends, while they support your endeavor, aren't really into seeing the shows? I have talked to a few people that are just plain uncomfortable in the burlesque genre and just can't get past the nudity thing (even if there isn't much of it abounding).

Maybe talk to them and tell them that you would really LOVE to have them at a show but leave the final decision with them. The comp tickets are a great idea; maybe combine it with dinner before the show with your group so you can clue them in to the good time the night will hold.

It might just be that you will have to go on having fabulous shows and an amazing time without family and friends there. You can tell them all about your fabulousness the next time you see them. Maybe sharing the fun stories will be enough to entice them to check it out.

Break some legs!

[Honey B Hooligan {Madam}]

Burlesque isn't for everyone sweetie, it makes some people very uncomfortable. I wouldn't take them not being there personally. If you want them to come more often, then let them know. Ask them right out "hey, will you come to my show this week?" and if they try and get out of it, ask them "do you not like burlesque? why not?" You're not going to be able to convert EVERYONE, but perhaps they have a skewed view of what it is? I've met many people that think Burlesque is just a strip show (with full nudity and what-not).

When push comes to shove, they may just not want to watch it, and you shouldn't take that personally. Ask them to come to the club afterwards so that you can all celebrate and party together? And remember, there's nothing wrong with not knowing people at the venue, it's a perfect time to mingle and meet new people who, obviously, have NO problem with Burlesque!

[Tabby von Terror {★}]

Thanks ladies,
I do understand that burlesque isnt for everyone and I've asked my friends and as far as I know they're okay with it, but don't give me reasons for not coming- they just dont.
Anyway, I love seeing the few unexpected people I do know, and meeting new people (and a few who have become regulars!) is great.
Thanks again for the advice dolls!
xo,
Tabby V.

[Betty Maraschino {Madam}]

I find its the same with seeing bands and such. My friends approve of it, they like it to a certain degree, but won't come to shows with me. It's exactly what has been said before, it might just not be their thing.
I just tell them I'm going, they know they can if they want, I tell them about it after.
Recently, I found out one of my friends doesnt come cause she doesnt know how to wreck/dance.
Personally, I would go to show support if a friends was doing this, but I wouldn't be comfortable. Thats just me tho.

So don't take it personally. They obviously love you. take it with a pinch of salt.

[crimson boudoir]

Hi, I really feel you. I understand that you put in all this effort, and you want to feel supported. You need to be honest with your friends and tell them that you need to have them in the audience for you, that it matters to YOU that they come to show their support. Be honest. No one can read anyone's mind, and it seems in this day and age we are all less sensitive because all of us are just too damn busy. So, my advice is actually two-fold. Talk to your friends and tell them how much it means to you, to have them there. On the other hand, once you have done that, you cannot get anyone to see a show that they really just don't want to see. It's one of those things that you just have to put up to the universe. Enjoy yourself! This is the most important aspect of performing.

Good luck to you and have a happy holiday.

Crimson Boudoir