Naked Ambition

An alliance with  Des O'Connor, who brought his musical theatre flair, and events that push vaudeville into polished, themed narratives, saw Edinburgh's Blonde Ambition conquer the European scene and London's up-market venues.

Blonde Ambition always supported quality performers, moving away from the community orientated burlesque and matching acts from across Variety. Laidlaw's skilled programming championed gentleman bboy Mr B, cabaret whore Sarah Louise Young, and supported Chris Wilson and Gypsy Charms in their experimental Mating Ritual. The ubiquitous Mr O'Connor – a host equally at home in Torture Garden or at Glastonbury – allowed Blonde Ambition to reach beyond tired line-ups and predictable routines.

"Of course, it's all about me," points out O'Connor. After last year's Desmorphia, he has teamed up with Mr B and Young for Me, Me, Me, a three way of rampant egotism that emerged naturally from the artists' previous collaborations.

The team-up came about when the artists recognised their kindred vision – of highly versatile, skillful and witty cabaret – could be consolidated into an hour of duets, trios and solos: O'Connor the multi-instrumentalist, Mr B the good man of hip-hop and Young the ironic, tortured, sensual flame singer create an alternative power trio.

Blonde Ambition's variety show, Vive Le Cabaret!, is the flagship of the Ghillie Dhu's programme. Picking up on last year's BA run at the Voodoo Rooms, it promises the stylish finesse that characterises the best of burlesque and vaudevile, making the most of the Dhu's elegant surrounds and proving that The Pleasance is engaging with cabaret's cutting edge and sophistication. With both a rotating cast – and a core that has included the Kitsch Kats, Gypsy Charmsand Viva Misadventure – Vive Le Cabaret bridges local and international talent, and showcases the post revival revolution towards quality and diversity.