Why Kirkcaldy's Brandy Monmartre is a name to note

Hannah Rose (30), who performs under the name Brandy Monmartre, was crowned winner of Burlesque Idol Scotland in July and will compete in the UK final in London next month.

Following that she will then perform in the Best British Newcomer in the World Burlesque Games in December and has also been named ‘One to Watch’ after performing at the London Burlesque Festival.

Remarkably Hannah, who is studying for a PhD in Spanish comics at Dundee University, only started performing 11 months ago.

“I’ve been interested in vintage and retro since I was about 17 and that’s when I started taking an interest in burlesque, but I didn’t know how to go about getting into it,” she said.

“I went to a burlesque ball in Edinburgh and they had a disco on after it. I noticed that the producers, Chaz Royal and Betty Rose Royal, were watching me so I danced my heart out and they contacted me after that.

“They’ve given me lots of opportunities so I’m very grateful.”

Hannah says that some people have the wrong impression of burlesque.

“There’s nothing sleazy about it.

“It’s a celebration of sensuality and the human form. It also projects a body positive image.

“I was nervous at first but when I’m performing it makes me feel completely at home and very positive. Basically shake what you’ve got!

“I’d love to make this what I do full-time. It will involve meeting the right people and I need to keep networking as I’m doing just now but who knows what will happen?

“And one day I’d love to bring burlesque to Kirkcaldy.”

Visit Hannah’s website www.brandymontmartre.com.