Today we’d like to introduce you to Holley MissBehavin’.
Hi Holley, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
For as long as I can remember, I’ve been drawn to the spotlight. From childhood ballet, tap, and jazz recitals to cheerleading at high school football games, dance has always been my favorite way to connect with an audience. I took a break from performing in my 20s to focus on college and building a career in marketing, but I always knew I’d find my way back to the stage.
That happened when I discovered Nerdlesque at the age of 30. I like to describe “Nerdlesque” as burlesque’s delightfully nerdy, but awkward cousin. It’s essentially a style of burlesque that celebrates and parodies pop culture. Since 2019, I’ve been performing nerdlesque acts on stages throughout the STL area.
Many of my acts are inspired by iconic (and often unexpected) characters, including Grimace, The Hamburglar, Jason Voorhees, Poison Ivy, Daphne (Scooby-Doo), Towelie (South Park), Dani (Midsommar), Old Gregg (Mighty Boosh), and Patrick Bateman (American Psycho). Half the fun is finding characters no one would ever expect to see in a burlesque act.
When I’m not performing Nerdlesque, I work as a freelance marketer and graphic designer. I also go-go dancer at bars, festivals, and private events throughout the St. Louis area. On top of all that, I also create and sell rhinestoned jewelry and accessories at events throughout the region. Every rhinestoned accessory and piece of jewelry I wear on stage is designed and handcrafted by me.
Lately, I’ve been branching out beyond performing. I’ve taught several Nerdlesque workshops through the Arch Burlesque Collective and recently launched my own Nerdlesque and drag show, ShowGhouls. My goal is to make it a monthly staple at Grey Fox Pub and give fellow weirdos, nerds, and lovers of camp a place to shine.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I’m an anxious AuDHD girlie whose body is strongly opposed to career choices. Between hEDS, POTS, Type 2 Narcolepsy, Raynaud’s Disease, Hidradenitis Suppurativa, and a right ankle that’s begging for ligament repair surgery, it’s honestly a miracle I’m on stage. Some nights I question myself. Then the music starts, and I remember exactly why I’m here.
Performing isn’t always joyful. Sometimes it’s exhausting, overwhelming, or scary. I keep doing it because I can’t ever imagine giving it up.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m a lifelong nerd, so creating acts inspired by pop culture feels incredibly natural to me. I love celebrating the fandoms that shaped me while adding my own unique blend of humor, glamour, and theatrical flair.
Even though my specialty is nerdlesque, I also perform traditional burlesque, draglesque, and drag.
I think what sets me apart as a performer is that I embrace both sincerity and silliness. My acts can be funny, nostalgic, scary, sexy or completely unhinged, but they’re always authenticly me. I never create something just because I think it’ll be popular. I create the performances I would want to watch, and I think audiences connect with that honesty.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
One app I frequently utilize is “Super Sound”, which I use to edit and create custom music mixes for my nerdlesque performances.
Beyond that, some of my most valuable resources are actually Instagram and TikTok. There are so many talented performers who generously share tutorials, behind-the-scenes processes, and educational content. I’ve learned everything from costuming techniques and prop construction to choreography, stage presence, and networking tips just by following creators who are passionate about sharing their knowledge.
I love that the performance community is so collaborative. Even after years of performing, I’m still learning new skills and finding inspiration from other artists online.
Pricing:
- For booking fees, email me for a free quote: holleymissbehavin@gmail.com
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.gigsalad.com/holley_missbehavin_burlesque_st_louis
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/holleyisanartist
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/holley.missbehavin.5
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hollyessner
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@holleyisanartist
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@holleyisanartist
