General News
5 April, 2025
Burlesque star ready for local debut
Opening night of 'The Carnival of Peculiarities' is ready to set the bar high with an elegant evening at The General Store in Warracknabeal.
For her first local performance, burlesque dancer DeeDee Lighting (aka Kirsty Keys) will grace the stage, captivating guests with seductive movements.
Ten years ago, Mrs Keys admired the confidence of a friend from Ballarat who performed burlesque.
"She had so much confidence and she said it was because of burlesque," she said.
From then on, it became a passion and an outlet for Mrs Keys.
She continues to travel to Melbourne for workshops and to develop her skillset.
"You learn how to love your body," she said.
The sophisticated and classy act allows her to escape reality for a little while as she puts on a persona.
"It reminds you that no matter what size you are, you are beautiful," she said.
Before burlesque, Mrs Keys was a dancer for 30 years "on and off" where she enjoyed jazz, contemporary and lyrical styles.
"I'm super excited to perform for steampunk," she said.
"I've been to all of them and I've fully enjoyed it."
Mrs Keys said it was mentioned to her three years ago that she should be a part of the next one.
"The organisers spoke to me and said they would love me to be involved but it wouldn't be for another two years," she said.
"Then Belinda mentioned it to me again and here we are."
FLIGHT OF FANTASY
Alongside Mrs Keys' stunning show, 230 miniature hot air balloons decorated by school students from around the region will also be featured.
Organiser Chan Uoy said the miniature hot air balloons on display were made with a defect that couldn't be sold.
"The manufacturer was going to throw them away because he couldn't sell them," he said.
Nine schools accepted the invitation to contribute alongside Horsham Art Gallery and Woodbine in Warracknabeal.
Schools include Nhill College, Jeparit Primary School, Rainbow P-12 College, Nhill Lutheran School Primary School, Kaniva Primary School, Dimboola Primary School, St Peter's Lutheran School Dimboola and St Mary's Primary School Warracknabeal.
"It's interesting to see what they come up with," Mr Uoy said.
The walls of the venue will be covered with digital art created by Victorian artist, photographer and musician, Ben Fowler.
Working under the name '4th Perspective' his pieces have been showcased in galleries around the world and in Federation Square, Melbourne, for a 20th anniversary celebration.
Emerging Thai artist Preme Worrakan will also complement the digital art exhibit.
A general admission ticket, priced at $35, includes entry, show and a free welcome drink.
Drinks and food are available to purchase on the night.
Tickets for her show are on sale now at https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1356856.