It isn’t every day, year or decade for that matter that Owen Sound gets to celebrate something in the realm of the naughty and taboo with an ‘adults only’ exhibition (pun unintended). No doubt about it, a new precedent will soon be set when erotic art and Burlesque come together for one sinfully, steamy night at the Roxy Theatre.

The Tom Thomson Art Gallery and Owen Sound Little Theatre have joined forces for the very first time to present  “Seeing Red…”,

a sensually sophisticated treat just in time for Valentine’s Day 2011.  Slated for Monday, February 14th, the event will feature the rarely seen Tom Thomson permanent collection of erotic art that has been stored away in secrecy, along with a truly delectable performance from Canada’s premier professional Cabaret Burlesque troupe, Les Coquettes. But wait, there’s more… Let’s not forget about the martinis, delicious sweets and ‘dare to enter’ draws that will be part of the evening! 

Recently, myowensound.ca had a chance to attend an erotic art media sneak peek event where we caught up with Roxy Theatre Manager and “Seeing Red…” co-creator Aly Boltman. The concept of this unique venture can actually be traced back a few years to an appraisal Aly conducted of some erotic art at Tom Thomson Art Gallery. In assessing the works, she found it to be unfortunate that these pieces could not be seen by the public due to general guidelines dictating what is deemed acceptable in an art exhibit.

In 2010 when Aly assumed her new position with Owen Sound Little Theatre, she wasted little time utilizing the Roxy as a vehicle to transform her previous observation into an exciting never-before-seen opportunity for the public. A steering committee put the wheels in motion to bring to fruition an event celebrating this seldom acknowledged form of art expression combined with singing, dancing and even some ‘close to the edge’ strip tease! “Seeing Red…” will be representative of both sexes, making it a perfect night out for couples and singles alike. Les Coquettes, compromised of both men and women, are renowned for their 1890’s Folies Bergere Parisian professional Burlesque. Having a top-notch performance ensemble of this calibre in Owen Sound for a ‘one night only’ musical date of sorts is indeed a very rare treat!   

Aly describes “Seeing Red…” as ‘fresh, inventive, classy and naughty’ and hopes to see it become an annual tradition. Those who purchase tickets can support two birds with one stone as proceeds will be split fifty-fifty between both local organizations. Cost is $50 per person with tickets now on sale through the Roxy Box Office at 519-371 - 2833 or online.  A back-up snow day has been arranged for Friday, February 18th. 

To learn more about Les Coquettes, visit their website. 

Submitted by: Jamie Pettit