INSIGHT Magazine August 2015 | Page 26

enjoys the playful back and forth. The act itself pulls together singing, comedy, dancing - even hula-hooping — along with the stripteases that one would expect to accompany burlesque show, but aiming to be tasteful and playful; risqué, but appropriate to the area, allowing a wide variety of viewers to be entertained. It’s worked so far, with an atypical audience makeup at the preview shows. slideshow of the girls “Doctors, lawyers, prominent people,” said Wood. “Bar people, women, men, it doesn’t matter their orientation or how old they are, it’s a variety.” The professional focus is apparent in everything from the acts and costumes to the lighting, which is professionally handled by Anniston’s Chevalier Productions. The effect comes across wonderful, competent bawdiness for high-brow, progressive crowds. The Model City Cabaret’s next performances will continue to be around town, with shows coming up at the Dark Horse Saloon, Smoking Moose, and a monthly revue at the Peerless Saloon and Grille, aptly named “Peerlesque.” Keeping it close to home is important to the founding trio, who all live and work in Calhoun County (Wood is a critical care nurse at RMC, Hanson is in the National Guard and Owens • teaches yoga at Jacksonville State University). As Wood puts it, hometown love is right in the name. “We have talented people here, not just small town people,” said Wood. “We want to show people, ‘This is what Anniston’s got inside it.’” Model City Cabaret’s next show is August 21 at the Smoking Moose. Visit their Facebook profile to find out more and get show announcements. Audition videos can be emailed to [email protected]. ✻ August 2015 INSIGHT