Ghoulies and Garters Review by Becky Speculo
As a seasoned, albeit covert Burlesque lover, I was looking forward to the glamour of the Garter in Lady May J’s recent production ‘Ghoulies and Garters’. Yet I was surprised by the creative individuality of each performance.
A cabaret collective from cowgirl to crow, diamonds to devils, malice to marvel with Lady May J herself as a marvellous Maleficent. There was something to keep you shaking like Shakira or stapled to your seat in shock.
An independent production at the Lights Theatre, all performers were handpicked and the show curated by Lady May J, for a truly unique show of mixed genres.
A drrrrrum roll for the entertaining and witty Mr Dave Allon, who, in between snappy splits, arresting arm balances and tempting tassels, somehow managed to keep it together under that beard, as the nights compère.
A show of characterful contrasts, we too decided to channel the inner devil, dress up and fully immerse ourselves in this night of enthralling escapism. From the edge of our front row seats, my friend and I mused over what kind of performers we’d make as we lost ourselves in a sea of self-expression and confident courage.
You can’t help but admire the talented performers in embracing their individual on-stage persona whilst simultaneously identifying with your own inner showstopper.
Hats and Hosiery off to Lady May J and her crew for a spectacular show. Their effort and dedication to putting on shows like this deserves recognition and without our support they wouldn’t happen.
With thanks to all her stunning performers:
Mx Cyanide
Johnny O
Miss Sugar Rush
Judit Circus
Eris Noir
Lady Shakira Diamond
King Crimson
Ivy Malice
Lady Blue Phoenix
And her super stage management team: Lisa Allon, Lisa Shord Kate Åström and SpidernSel Borrett.
Lady May J returns next year for her third show, Glitters and Garters.
Step into her world of fearless performance, unapologetic glamour, and irresistible mischief and join Lady May J’s insider list here. I know I am already there!
Photo credits to Baz Yéllow.
Casting Call: Glitters and Garters – December 4th, 2026
Lady May J is sprinkling early festive glitter over the stage as preparations begin for her next spectacular show, Glitters and Garters, taking place at The Lights Theatre, Andover on 4th December 2026 — and she’s on the lookout for dazzling talent to join the lineup. Whether you sparkle, sleigh, or slay on stage, all styles are welcome: Christmassy, anti-Christmas, dark, funny, classic burlesque, boylesque, cabaret, sideshow, drag queens, drag kings… you get the gist — if you have even the faintest whiff of a festive connection, she wants to hear from you! This is an open casting running beyond the festive season to allow performers time to gather footage from upcoming seasonal shows. To apply, email ladymayjevents@gmail.com with your performer info and your fee/travel expectations. Lady May J looks forward to discovering the next wave of glittering showstoppers!