The Candy Gram: Amber Ray

In our ongoing Q&A series --"The Candy Gram"-- we ask the same quirky questions of burlesque's various performers. If you want to be added to the mix, drop us a line at kellydinardo AT gmail DOT com. Today, say hello to New York's Amber Ray.

What is your hometown?
Milwaukee, Wi

How long have you been interested in burlesque/performing?
In the naivete of my late teens I was one of those who thought strip clubs were places where women with fishnets, furs, big wigs and rhinestones, ruled. I started stripping when I was 18. I was always doing burlesque in strip clubs until I found my people, my community, my family in NYC.

How many pairs of pasties do you own?
At least 15

What are your three favorite songs to perform to?
Thinking of Baby - Elmer Bernstein
Talk Show Host - Radiohead
Green Onions - Count Basie

What three items could you not live without as a performer?
Red lipstick, black liquid eyeliner and, OF COURSE, a fabulously layered costume.

Who had the biggest influence on your career?
This all came so natural to me. I just knew what I wanted to make myself into. I guess MTV, Madonna, the whole 80s POP phenomenon really got me going.

Who is your favorite burly queen?
Well Dixie, for her wild performances and keeping the Art of Burlesque Alive in History and Blaze Starr for her generally fabulous package. I love performers for different reasons. Cathrine Dlish will always be one of my favorites. She Oozes and her moves and looks are absolutely intoxicating.

What is your favorite item of clothing?
My Peacock Costume-Corsets!!!

What's the last movie you saw?
A Dirty Shame and The Life Aquatic - both in one night, Both absolutely FANTASTIC!

What's on your must-see-TV list?
Desperate Housewives
Ugly Betty
Pushing Daisies

What book is on your nightstand?
The Boy Who Fell in Love with the Moon by Tom Spanbauer

If you could go anywhere for vacation, where would you go?
Gay Paree, OF COURSE! I have a whole life waiting for me there!!!

If you could have any superpower, which one would you want? Why?
Telekenesis, so I could move all kinds of people and things with my mind.

Satisfy your appetite for more Candy Grams:Beatrix von Bourbon,
Angie Pontani, Tanya Cheex, Bloody Belle, Clams Casino, Trixie Little, Michelle L'Amour, Margaret Cho, Miss Dirty Martini,Princess Farhana, Miss Delirium Tremens, Paris Green, Jo Boobs, Jack Midnight, Heidi Von Haught, Diamond Minx, The Titillation Twins, Scratch, Creamy Stevens and Gina Louise.