Gemma Wheildon is pretty much a super hero. Mild mannered public servant by day, glitter covered strong woman by night.
Penelope Asterisk is Gemma’s burlesque alter-ego, a carefully crafted character designed to wow audiences while proving two things:
1. Girls can be strong too.
2. Being strong does not mean you can’t be feminine.
Penelope lifts weights that boggle the mind, and looks amazing while doing so.
It’s a pretty cool thing.
“I like to challenge how woman are observed, how women are valued and what is considered sexy,” Gemma says.
“Weight-lifting isn’t traditionally an audience-friendly sport, but I like to think that Penelope makes it something that everyone – women and men – can find entertaining, and even a little bit alluring!”
In her upcoming performance as part of The Sass and Tease Collective’s SMASH HITS 80’s Burlesque! Penelope Asterisk will showcase her strength and sex-appeal in equal measure.
To the tunes of Dead DJ Joke, she will perform feats of strength worthy of the ancient Amazonians. If you’re feeling inspired, Penelope will present a tribute to the great Jane Fonda that shows that fitness can be fun for everyone, especially where Lycra is involved.
As for the question of whether she really is the strongest woman? “I certainly know many people who can lift heavier things than me,” she says “but they don’t do it in sequins!”
Watch the 7.30 Report’s interview with Gemma and Penelope
See Penelope Asterisk in SMASH HITS 80’s Burlesque! – The Abbey, Friday 6 September
Want to actually go see Penelope perform? Buy tickets to the Smash Hits 80’s show right here!
http://www.eventopia.co/event/Sass-and-Tease-Smash-Hits-80s/185501
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