Now, pageants aren't something I normally do. Ever. I've never done one before this. I've never been interested in anything like that. And living out in the bush, not much like that actually happens out here anyway. So it never really crossed my mind.
But I saw a casting call for participants for a pin up pageant that a young girl was organising and running, in a town close by to me. And it was just that, a PIN UP pageant, not a 'beauty' pageant, not a swimwear or 'Miss Beach Babe' or anything like that. Had it been anything like that, I wouldn't have even considered doing it. But, it was based around pin up. And it was actually in a town close by to me. Normally for my photoshoots and such things like that, I have to travel into the city. But this pageant was being held in another little country town near by, which I thought was great.
So, I decided to enter. It was just something I wanted to do, to get out of my comfort zone a little bit. Something to force me to step out of my compfy little safe bubble. Something different. Something exciting. Something to get my heart pumping a bit. Something to give me butterflies.
And it sure did that. There were two nights, the semi-finals, and the finals two weeks later. And each night, we did 2 or 3 'runs' each on the runway. And let me tell you, before my very first run on the semi-final night, I was petrified! The old heart was racing, the legs were shaking and the tummy was ready to throw up! But, after that first run, I loved it, I wanted to go out there time and time again.
By the finals, I was absolutely loving it. I had cheeky little routines that I did at the end of the runway, I had little props to use and I actually got the audience involved. It really felt great performing for everyone. Hearing people cheer. Hearing my name being called out by the MC. All so great.
And actually, one of the other participants and I, performed a little last minute, on the spot, act on stage together, which was super fun. And she's since asked me if I'd like to put together a burlesque act with her, to perform at that same hotel. So of course, having found this new love and interest in performing, I said yes. Our first meeting and 'rehearsal' is tomorrow
So, even though I didn't get a final place in the top 3, I came out of this experience with a newfound and very unexpected interest in performing, a burlesque opportunity, some amazing pictures, some new girl friends, and the satisfaction of knowing I actually went out there and did something a little bit 'scary' for a change.
I'm proud of myself
And now for the best bit... pictures
Me backstage before my very first ever, runway walk. Drinking a Fruit Tingle (without the tingle, I don't drink alcohol!) It still tasted great though, I recall in my nervous state, saying it tasted "pretty".
My little support team - My husband (in the back) and my brother in law and sister in law ♥
A few snaps of my hair and makeup before the show. All of my jewellery, hair and makeup were done by Kat from My Little Rockabilly who offered to sponsor me for the event
My first ever runway walk! This was the pin up 'daywear' run.
Frantically trying to get dressed backstage in time for the 2nd run, pin up 'swimwear'. I actually forgot half of my outfit, because we were in such a rush, I didn't get time to put it on, and that half of my outfit was a actually prop in my act, oh well!
Backstage, waiting for the MC to call my name for the 2nd run.
On stage!
Handing out goodies to the crowd, as part of an act.
Again, backstage. Before my third run - pin up lingerie. This is actually a real snake, it was one of the other girl's props.
And a couple more backstage pics before the 3rd run.
Me performing my 3rd act on stage. Nothing like a bit of audience participation!
And finally, pics of the little act that Kelly and I did as a last minute treat for the audience!
So there you have it folks, my first 'onstage' experience, and the first of what I hope to be many more
