Conversations with Cassy Cyanide

Today we’d like to introduce you to Cassy Cyanide.

Cassy, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I started out modeling in 2014 when I was living back east in NJ through a friend’s partner. I was doing photo shoots on and off in different styles. It was through this path that I met the friends who introduced me to the burlesque world. I saw my first burlesque show in February 2019 and immediately fell in love with the art form.

I ended up knowing the co-producer of the show through the modeling scene and she ended up taking me under her wing. I was able to start kittening shows in March of 2019 and in November I made my debut at the Atlantic City Tattoo Festival. I only performed twice before COVID hit and I moved to Denver.

Moving here really got me started. Cut to now, I produce my own show each month called Taking Back Burlesque, which is a Pop-Punk and Emo Burlesque show. I also have a kitten residency with Blassphemy and Conspiracy Circus and I often work with ConSensual Circus and Cabaret of Curiosities.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The biggest struggles I’ve had were moving across the country and not really having any connections in the burlesque scene here in Denver. It was not easy to get started out here post-pandemic. I really didn’t start up again until two friends I knew from the Philly scene ended up moving out here and really giving me a shot.

Also, I struggle with diagnosed Body Dysmorphic Disorder, it really impacts the way I create my art. At the same point, it is a struggle at times, but it has also been an amazing way for me to really face the BDD head-on. Exposure therapy is the best way to heal and being in a venerable state on stage in front of an audience is the ultimate Exposure for me and it has been a challenge and so rewarding at the same time.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a burlesque dancer, kitten, and producer, and also a model. I am most proud of finally being able to bring the show I have always wanted to see to life here in Denver and it is so successful from the start. Taking Back Burlesque is my baby and it’s been such an honor to have it be so well received and to be able to hire so many talented performers.

What’s next?
I’m really looking forward to growing Taking Back Burlesque this year down at the home venue Creepatorium because, in addition to a burlesque show, there is now also an emo dance party following the burlesque show. I want to bring the Denver emo scene together and give them a space to enjoy art and then dance and sing their hearts out and find community.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: Www.instagram.com/cassycyanide and www.instagram.com/takingbackburlesque

Image Credits
Emerald Boes and Rockabilly Buddha