Today we’d like to introduce you to River Monae Cameron.
Hi River Monae, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I started dancing and performing in gymnastic competitions as early as 12 years old. I grew to love many styles of dance but modern and improv were my favorite, which is what I adapt every time I step on stage. I started my professional burlesque journey in November of 2024 and I am working on show #50 today, actually! I stepped in this with the idea of creating a space for inclusivity, creativity and fluidity. I get to provide that with my own production — Winks & Rouge Cabaret
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It hasn’t been the easiest thing but it hasn’t been too hard that it feels like a job! Smooth means something isn’t right, you need bumps to make it your idea of “perfect”. A lot of this is networking and it gets redundant, that was a challenge for me. Growing socially was a learning process, being introverted and autistic often times challenges me — all while learning that being autistic is actually beautiful. I wouldn’t be here without my hyper-fixated brain.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Providing entertainment, talent, art and a safe, consensual environment is my top priority. I am the proud founder and producer of The Winks & Rouge Cabaret. This has been the best way to learn about what the community needs to make it whole again! My production company and artist thrive of sexy consent and mandatory support! I’m most proud of being one of the only places in Durham that provides a diverse, inclusive not themed cross over show from burlesque to drag. We have sold out 2 of 3 shows so far – yay! As a producer and an artist, I would consider myself different than many others. I say this because I have spent so much time in many different production companies shows. I have had amazing experiences and experiences where I feel like I was trash. It happens — but I do not live by that. I stand my being timely. I stand by being supportive and loving, people of all talent ranges come onto this specific stage. Being vulnerable is hard so let’s just make it easier by being a unit! . I strongly encourage the “fam” ethic in my shows and it.. shows!
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
I see myself as a full time producer, leaving behind my day job of 10 years in veterinary medicine. I see that coming in the next 2 rather than 5, if I keep up the hard work. I hope to create a workshop twice a month for new artist and kittens, welcoming an introduction to this “thing called nightlife”. In 5-10 years — I hope to be doing what I am now. It will involve creating shows, teaching new and seasoned artist, holding workshops to specialize in certain areas. I hope to be a great mentor for the rest of the upcoming community.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @The.RiverMonae
- Facebook: Imogene Cameron
