Last December Vanessa White took a chance. As the director of Babes in Boinkland, a Boston-based burlesque group, she choreo-graphed and produced “The Slutcracker: A burlesque.”
A small vision turned into a big success — selling out the Somerville Theatre and forcing an unexpected second weekend of performances. “The Slutcracker”’s Sarah Josselyn explains how the sexual side of a grown-up Clara came about.
How would you describe your character?
Clara and Fritz are boy-friend/girlfriend, not brother and sister. … Everything is perfect; she’s like Martha Stewart. … She has the gorgeous boyfriend and they look all cute together and they care about each other … but it’s like the sex thing has not really been a priority for her. Drosselmeyer … gives her the chance to explore things that she hasn’t really done in her life.
What is the best part about being Clara?
This is really a chance for me to shine where I wouldn’t have if I tried to pursue [dance] professionally.
What do your family and friends think?
My family is funny. My mother … she had her misgivings … she was worried about my safety. Most of my friends think it’s absolutely awesome. … Some people are like, “Really?” Just like Clara — I can look all cute and innocent.
What is your favorite part?
Well, I don’t want to give it away but the best part is … the snow scene. … Last year the audience ate it up. [laughs] The payoff in that moment was amazing.
Why should people see the show?
We just want to give it a little twist and move it into the 21st Century. We’re all very open about sexuality and very liberal and individual performers. This is how we want to present this.
What is the No. 1 thing on your Christmas list?
Come to think of it … my vibrator’s broken. Can you even print that?
‘The Slutcracker: A Burlesque’
Dec. 10-13, 17-20
Somerville Theater
55 Davis Square, Somerville
MBTA: Red Line to Davis
18+ $20; $25 at the door
617-625-5700
www.somervilletheatreonline.com/www.theslutcracker.com
