Out in the Universe: August 1-8, 2026

Out in the Universe: August 1–8

I’ve spent this week doing something I don’t always make enough time for: recovering.

After an incredible week at Tales of the Cocktail and a beautiful Beginner Burlesque Workshop at D. Michelle’s Dance Academy on July 25, I’ve been resting, reflecting, and already dreaming up the next time we can gather in that studio. Stay tuned. We’ll be back.

Now it’s time to head back out into the universe.

On Saturday, August 1, you can catch me in a show for Just a Taste with Bri and the Sparkling Diamonds at The AllWays Lounge. We’ll be in the front lounge for this one. It’s a fun, fast-paced evening of burlesque that starts “promptly” at 6:00 p.m. and wraps up in about an hour, so don’t be late.

After the curtain comes down, I’ll be making my annual pilgrimage to White Linen Night. If you’ve never experienced it, it’s one of my favorite weekends in New Orleans. I’ll be wandering through the Arts District, taking in as much art as I can, with Shaw Art Gallery high on my list to see new work by Prosper Jones alongside other photographers and mixed media artists whose work I admire.

On Sunday, August 2, you’ll find me where I love to be: in the streets.

I’ll be stepping out with the Original Black Seminole Baby Dolls, second lining our way to Satchmo SummerFest. We’ll roll out immediately following Mass at St. Augustine Church and make our way into the French Quarter. It’ll be hot, it’ll be joyful, and there will absolutely be some twirling involved. If you see me out there, come say hello before we all go looking for something cold to drink.

Then it’s time to pack a suitcase.

From August 5–8, I’ll be in Chicago attending the Let’s Talk About Sex Conference, an interdisciplinary gathering centered on sexual and reproductive health, education, and advocacy. I’m excited to be part of conversations that sit at the intersection of performance, storytelling, and community.

And because I can never resist seeing how another city moves, I have one request for my Chicago friends: point me toward the burlesque. If you know the shows, the performers, or the stages I shouldn’t miss while I’m in town, send me a recommendation. Better yet, if there’s an opportunity to hop on stage myself, I’m all ears.

Back home, the city will be celebrating Dirty Linen Night, another weekend I always look forward to for the incredible galleries, artists, and creative energy that fills the city. I’m hoping my travel lines up so I can make it back in time to enjoy a little of the magic.

Art. Performance. Culture. Travel. Community.

Gimme all of that!

I do hope our paths cross somewhere out in the universe.