Biography
Since graduating from Screaming Chicken Theatrical Society's Becoming Burlesque program, this comic cutie has titillated audiences in dozens of venues across Vancouver and Canada. This busty and lusty Burlesque Stripsation will celebrate her 5 year Burlesque-a-versary in May 2012. A Vancouver fan favorite, this pervy and curvy cutie has been called “a sheer comical and dancing talent on display,” “hilarious,” “full of sass,” and “in your face!” April's proudest achievement has been being accepted to compete for Best Debut at the Burlesque Hall of Fame in 2012 where she was awarded Most Comedic overall. Fond memories include dancing and co-choreographing for SHINE: a burlesque musical. This busty bombshell and crew brought down the house at Granville Island's Waterfront Theatre to rave reviews from fans and critics alike. April's efforts were noted with a nomination for an Ovation award in the category of Best Gypsy for her stellar performance and cheery disposition. Other achievements of note include masterminding and performing in Screaming Chicken's entry for Best Group at the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekend in the summer of 2010 and 2012 and with the Razzle Tassel Tease Show in 2011. April was also choreographer for the critically acclaimed Burlesque musical Greece Does Grease. April has been listed as having one of the Top 40 Best Burlesque Blogs, been a recipient of the 2009 Vancouver International Burlesque Festival's award for Comedic and Satirical Brilliance, and voted as Vancouver's 3rd favorite comedian in the 2009 Georgia Straight's Best of! Everyone's favourite blonde ball of fun has since returned to scene of the crime to help guide new performers into the magical world of Burlesque by co-teaching the very same intensive where she first found her start. April also was seen with the Razzle Tassel Tease Show at the 2011 Vancouver Fringe Festival and currently spends her spare time serving on the board of directors for 2012 Vancouver International Burlesque Festival. A passionate powerhouse of a performer, you never know what April O’Peel will do next!
Artist Statement
I create through Burlesque because I believe in diversity, variety and multiformity. I aspire to be counted among the best in Burlesque by using Fantasy, Theatrics, Humor, Sexuality, Body Positivity, and Dance in order to create Joy, Positivity and Celebration.
Often my work is completely inspired by music. I can often “see” music; envisioning story or choreography. Other work is inspired by character. I often create Burlettas centering around fantastical, outrageous, and over the top characters. I am also inspired by happiness and aim to connect with my audience through laughter. Many of my comedic pieces involve regressive humor using infantile, sexual or aggressive behavior. My current philosophy for Burlesque choreography has been greatly influenced by the pageantry of the Vegas Showgirl and the art of Clown.
My experience at the Burlesque Hall of Fame in 2010 has inspired my current works to become more of a blending of new and old genres. I attempt to marry the two eras while at the same time challenging and exploring traditional conventions about dance, art, comedy, and body image.
Often my work is completely inspired by music. I can often “see” music; envisioning story or choreography. Other work is inspired by character. I often create Burlettas centering around fantastical, outrageous, and over the top characters. I am also inspired by happiness and aim to connect with my audience through laughter. Many of my comedic pieces involve regressive humor using infantile, sexual or aggressive behavior. My current philosophy for Burlesque choreography has been greatly influenced by the pageantry of the Vegas Showgirl and the art of Clown.
My experience at the Burlesque Hall of Fame in 2010 has inspired my current works to become more of a blending of new and old genres. I attempt to marry the two eras while at the same time challenging and exploring traditional conventions about dance, art, comedy, and body image.
