A Gentlewoman of Chidoriya No. 8:
Who are you?
I am Michelle L'amour, The Most Naked Woman.
Where are you from originally?
I was born and raised in Chicago. I have been living in Los Angeles for the past year.
How did you start and how did you get to where you are now?
Please kindly share your story...
I started doing burlesque back in 2002, kind of by accident. I was going to school at the University of Illinois in Champaign for a degree in finance. I was nearing graduation and it became increasingly clear that I didn't want to have a corporate job. I went to an audition and was spotted by a musician. He approached me and asked if I would dance for his band. I said yes! So, I choreographed and danced back up for his band. It was a glam/industrial/electronic band. Really fun! Later, he asked if I would be interested in opening this rock show with a burlesque show. I said yes again, even though I didn't know what that was. Later, when I heard that classic bump and grind music, I knew that this was exactly what I was supposed to be doing. That was 16 years ago! Since then, I ran a burlesque school in Chicago, Studio L'amour, and ran a burlesque group called The Chicago Starlets, won the title of Miss Exotic World in 2005, appeared on numerous television programs and documentaries, traveled the world teaching and performing, AND married that leader of that band!
What is your current project and do you have any new performance you are working on right now?
I currently produce the weekly Thursday show at Untitled in River North, called Unbridled. I also book all of the entertainment at the Drifter as well as produce the Comedy Cabaret at the Comedy Bar every Saturday. In addition, I make content for my fan club. It's a place where people can go to support my art. Creating art is very expensive so it is very good to have support from my fans (they are the best). I am working on new acts and shows all of the time! If you want to support my projects, visit www.patreon.com/michellelamour
What makes you smile?
Dogs who look like their owners!
What makes you cry?
Anything that brings me extreme joy and happiness. I have a soft heart.
What is your favorite number?
If you had a superpower, what would you do?
I would eat and drink without consequence! I would also teleport because the process of traveling is no fun. I just want to get there!
What else is on your mind?
I am always looking for the best way to be authentically me while still entertaining an audience. I am very passionate about this. It pushes me to be vulnerable, but it can also feel very overwhelming. Even though I have a mind for numbers, I have an artist's temperament. I always know that I'm moving in the right direction if I am uncomfortable.
You are our dear client for a while now. Which item is your favorite?
My favorite product is...all of them!! That's the hardest question. I think, maybe the rosehip oil. I use it every night before bed. It's so smooth and nourishing.
Any favorite quote?
Any favorite quote?
Trust the good. - Michelle L'amour :-)
Beauty is the truth.
All photos / Copyright by Michelle L'amour
