Shawna The Black Venus, Photo Credit Ed Barnas 2024

Those that know the incomparable burlesque Legend Shawna The Black Venus know what a true professional and remarkable human she truly is. Shawna has graciously shared with us that she has recently been diagnosed with and treating breast cancer. Shawna will need to undergo a series of radiation to help ensure the cancer is completely gone. During this time and for likely 2-3 months after the radiation treatment she will need to rest, recover and build her immune system back up again. This means she will be unable to work for an indefinite period of time.

BurlyCares would like to set a goal to raise $2000.00 for Shawna. This will greatly help bridge the gap financially during her recovery time. It will also ensure that her basic needs such as continuing to pay for housing and food and other essential bills are paid for at least 2 -3 months while she heals.

 Please consider helping this wonderful person and performer today. Any amount is greatly appreciated and really ensures decreased stress during an already stressful time.

 Donate Today!

About Shawna The Black Venus

Shawna started her burlesque career in 1972. She took a dare from a friend at an “amateur night” contest and won! That was the beginning of her professional dancing career. Shawna then appeared in Guam, Puerto Rico and became famous throughout the East Coast and Mid-West in the 70s and 80s. Shawna was also well known for her “country Western” and spectacular “fire show” in which she twirled tassels with fire! Additionally, she has been featured in the book, ‘Legends of Burlesque: Then and Now’ presented by legends Gina Bon Bon and Julie Mist. Although she formally retired from dancing in 1994, she continues to dance regularly at many burlesque festivals and has since returned to burlesque and has participated in ‘The Walk of Fame at the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekender’ in 2018, 2019 & 2023, and performed in the ‘Burlesque Hall of Fame Legends Show’ in 2024 & 2025. 

Help ‘The Little Mermaid of Burlesque’ Mickey Mae

Burlesque Legend Mickey Mae

Burlesque Legend Mickey Mae Faerch is in need of our help. Years ago, Mickey underwent a mastectomy with reconstruction. Recently, one of her reconstructed implants ruptured, causing pain, discomfort, emotional distress and has left her vulnerable to systemic infection. After consulting with her doctor, it’s clear that she needs to have the implants removed and her breast reconstructed as soon as possible to protect her health and well-being.

Unfortunately, the cost of the procedure, along with time off work and medical follow-ups, is overwhelming, and not covered by insurance.

Mickey is asking for help to raise funds for the costs of the surgery, post-operative care, and the essentials needed to recover safely and fully. Any amount, big or small, will help Mickey greatly.

We would like to set a fundraising goal of $5000.00 for Mickey.

Mickey thanks everyone so much for their support during this unexpected and difficult time. She is so grateful for every bit of love and support anyone can give.

Donate Today!

About Mickey Mae

‘Mickey Mae, The Little Mermaid’, is a Danish-Canadian international burlesque performer. She was a head lining artist who started in the 1970’s and continued performing into the 1980’s and 1990’s. Mickey began performing across Canada, to the USA, France, Japan and Guam. She then settled down in San Diego and returned gleefully to the burlesque stage after three decades. She recently performed at the Burlesque Hall of Fame 2024 Weekender as a featured burlesque legend.