Meet Lucy Risqué | Burlesque Performer & Entrepreneur

We had the good fortune of connecting with Lucy Risqué and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lucy, how do you think about risk?
Risk is something that we take every day to further pursue what we seek to achieve in life. It can be either good or bad, necessary or unnecessary. Knowing which to take for oneself is essential to personal growth and success. In my life, I have taken some risks that have taught me the value of being in control of one’s own life. At times, I may second guess my decisions based on the immediate outcome but I know that the long-term lesson is always there with me as a guide through further trials and tribulations. We are not perfect beings and without taking some risks– learning to bump our heads a time or two then to heal properly– we will always stay stagnant in a place of contentment without any real growth. That is something that I simply could never see for myself. I am always striving to be a better and much greater version of the person I was yesterday. Focus, drive, willingness to learn, and determination all push me from one level to the next. I appreciate all that I have learned from my experiences of risk-taking and I look forward to the journey that more risks, good and bad, shall bring to myself and my further success.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My journey began many moons ago in the strip clubs of North Carolina. I was young, in need of funds, and a wild-child of the day and night, by choice. I had come to the conclusion that dancing would fit me best seeing as how I hate clothes, love nudity, love dancing, and have great conversation. It helped me put all my skills to use for survival and enjoyment. While dancing, I had the pleasure of meeting and knowing some great– and some not-so-great– individuals. During my early days, I saw women from all walks of life in the club either doing what they enjoyed or doing it solely for survival. Some, unfortunately, had been in the game for many years without much to show for all they had made over the decade(s). I decided then that having that sort of outcome for myself was unacceptable. I do understand that things happen in life which cause major shifts, but I didn’t want such drastic shifts for myself with negative outcomes. I sought to have more in the realm of nightlife, entertainment, and the embodiment of sexiness. I sought after the world of burlesque. Within a few years of my time dancing I became aware of a large, Black-owned, touring burlesque show that was coming to my city in need of body paint models. I applied, got the position, and worked with them twice within a 3 month span (their travel rotation). By the end of my second time working with them, I was asked to join the team as a semi-resident model. Of course, I took the opportunity and thus began my time touring and meeting other amazing artists and burlesque performers. After only a couple of months, I was graduated to merchandise manager, then personal assistant to the COO, and finally asked to relocate to New York. I knew then that I was making some of my wildest dreams come true! I accepted the offer, moved with that little I had to bring across state lines, and eventually began to meet other producers and get booked for shows. It was some of the best time of my life and most eye opening experiences.
Taking the chance to say “yes” to as many opportunities that I could successfully fulfill has brought me to my current point of existence within my industry. The time has not been without hiccups, and even then I do my best to learn what mistakes I have made, how I can be better moving forward, and realizing what opportunities best serve myself and my end goals. I like to say that I have created my own form of college and internship simply with the willingness to accept new challenges while taking some amazing risks into the unknown which have paid off well. By no means, is my journey complete or to remain stagnant. This time has been ever evolving and beautiful. I have accepted all that has happened in my time, good and bad, as lessons to further along my greatness. Without them, I am not sure who I would be today or where I would be standing.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
In my current city, the nightlife is very tame compared to my many long nights in Brooklyn. I recently had the pleasure of experiencing axe-throwing and it was quite fun. There is definitely some technique and skill that goes into it when I thought it was just about picking up the axe and giving it a good toss. This is the home of NASCAR so there is the Hall of Fame to visit, the NASCAR racetrack during season, go carts, and other sporty spots. From hiking to general workout locations to some more strenuous outdoor activities (ie: white water rafting, rock climbing, no gravity center, etc.) there is plenty available for the more active individual to enjoy. The city does have some pretty good eateries, too! One of my favorite pass-times is to enjoy a nice 420-friendly smoke and venture out to try some place new that I have never been before. I’m not too picky of an eater (team no red meat or pork, though) so I am willing to try many different types of food styles and cuisines. A great ending to my day would be to unwind in one of the local bars or lounges, especially in the uptown area. There are plenty to choose from with all type of vibes. From your local neighborhood bar to something a bit more swanky and upscale. There are also a few pretty cool clubs to venture to, but I’m not big on the club scene unless I’m there for work, honestly. The relaxed atmosphere provided at a bar or lounge is something more up my alley. Especially if there is karaoke available in the mix!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Highest dedication goes to Universe and Spirit, without which none of us would be in existence. Next, I give big thanks to my parents for creating the magical world and being that is mine and me. My biggest motivations and love go to my little sisters, Alexsis and Nova, who mean the world to me and are the biggest reasons why I strive for all the abundance and success I have had and will have. My love and light goes to my family, my best friend Kristiana, my supporters, my fans, and definitely to my very good friend Kandie Marie for bringing this opportunity my way. I appreciate all that any of you have ever done for me and have pushed me to further achieve. And all inspiration, I give to any and all burlesque performers, dancers, actresses, actors, sex workers, motivators, and artists who have come before me and are my peers. I see you. I appreciate you. I love you. Thank you all for everything you do, have done, and will continue to do.

Website: RisquePlayhaus.com (relaunch coming soon!)

Instagram: @misslucyrisque

Twitter: @LucyRisque

Youtube: Risqué Playhaüs

Other: Adult content available via OF under username Lucy Risqué

Image Credits
IG; @markmarkerproductions (black photo & red photo) IG: @kyng_kaos (outside photo)