leilachan (レイラちゃん)

2010-05-14T01:07:00.005+09:00

Hey Friends,

It's been a gooooood looong while hasn't it!

Well I'm not dead.

I went on a much needed extended hiatus.

And now I'm back.

but not here.

I moved out of Japan.

Now I'm in Australia.

New country = New blog

Leilamarieali.com

Swing on by for a cuppa and some catchin up!

throwing a bone

2009-03-09T09:12:00.003+09:00

Just a little insight into my master plan.

Sketchtastic Week in Review

2008-11-30T00:19:00.011+09:00

Hey Art Monkeys,

It's only been a week since the 1st Annual Dr. Sketchy's Exhibition Party and it feels like a lifetime ago.
The lights.
The glitz.
The glam.
It's a story told best with pictures.
Enjoy.

Photos by: Gianfranco Chicco
www.drsketchytokyo.com

Party of my Life

2008-11-22T11:51:00.005+09:00

This is it!
This is what all the hard work has lead to.
This day!
It's not Christmas or my birthday and I'm soo excited I can hardly sit still.

I haven't slept or eaten properly in days and yet I'm on a natural high. I have no idea how it's all going to turn out but I am filled with such joy and pride and lust for life even if it all falls on my head I have had such an amazing time on this journey. I have worked with my very best friends and made a few more. It has been a labor of pure love for sure and there are no words that can truly express the appreciation I feel for all those involved in making the Dr. Sketchy's Exhibition Party a reality. You've made all these tiny thoughts into jeweled realities and I am truly moved.

To all the artists, models, dancers, staff, volunteers and supporters of Dr. Sketchy's Tokyo THANK YOU!

Lady Elle

Dr. Sketchy's, Tokyo Exhibition Party

2008-11-17T07:57:00.003+09:00

Only 5 more sleeps until the big Dr. Sketchy's Exhibition Party and I can't hardly wait. Visions of dancing feathered ladies and Sketchtastic eye candy swim round my head and the excitement is best expressed through song! Check out this vid from the Dazzle Dancers that pretty much sums up the mood on Saturday night!

Saturday November 22nd
La Boheme on Kotto Dori
21:00-2:00
￥2500 +1 Drink (RSVP)
￥3500 +1 Drink at the door
rsvp@drsketchytokyo.com

Keith Olberman...

2008-11-13T03:58:00.002+09:00

Gives it to you straight with no chaser.
Right On!

Hoop Video of the Day...AGAIN!

2008-11-07T13:25:00.005+09:00

I was pleased as punch to learn that I was hoop video of the day again on hooping.org. Mostly because this time I wasn't trying so hard. Hooping at Glitterball this year was truly a dream come true. It was on my vision board and everything! There is something about this moment in history that makes me feel like anything and everything is possible.

It's ALL HAPPENING.

Sketchy Drink Names

2008-11-07T04:01:00.005+09:00

If you were a cocktail at sizzling hot burlesque exhibition party what would your name be?

Dr. Sketchy's, Tokyo is now holding court and taking your suggestions.
Be clever.
Be creative.
Be down right crass.

The chosen few will win bragging rights for a Sketch-ternity.

Debauchery is the name of the drinking game!

The winners will be on the menu at
Dr. Sketchy's GRAND EXHIBITION PARTY

in Aoyama at La Boheme on Kotto Dori on
November 22nd
Time 9p-2a
¥2500 +1 Drink w/flyer or reservation rsvp@drsketchytokyo.com
¥3500 +1 Drink @ door
more details here.

photo by: Martine Cotton

YES WE DID!

2008-11-05T16:01:00.001+09:00

Re-inventing self

2008-11-04T15:53:00.004+09:00

Move over Madonna.
Usually the meglomaniac in me only uses this site for my own self-indulgent admittedly mastabatory personal pursuits but I just HAVE TO HAVE TO HAVE TO share these photos of one of my very dearest friends Deanne "SuperStar" Tonking of Hooplovers.com

Recently she modeled for a variety of fashion photographers in a shoot that is the equivalent of a photographic jam sessions and the end result is a hooping portfolio worthy of any album cover this side of the Tachikawa! Truly breathtaking, stunning and unequivocally GORGEOUS. Deanne, this past year I have watched you radiate energy like a phoenix and you haven't even hit your zenith yet! All I can say is that I love it and I want more of it!

Photos by: Rampant Gian

Glitterball

2008-11-03T07:14:00.002+09:00

Last week was one for the history books! Deanne Tonking of Hooplovers.com rallied her hooping minions together for a hooping light show that delighted thousands on all Hallow's Eve at Womb in Shibuya! Every year the good folks over at Metropolis Magazine host the now infamous Glitterball and the mischief and mayhem of the evening is legendary. Wish we were able to get better angels but as I was standing on podium (1x1 square meters) with over 2000 revelers we were lucky to capture the moment at all! Move over Mika this is a video for the girls!

Glitterball 2008 from Lady Elle on Vimeo.

Metropolis Modeling Debut

2008-10-17T22:49:00.005+09:00

This week I had the opportunity to stretch some modeling muscles that I didn't even know I had. I can now check off yet another thing on the list of things to do before I hit the big 3-0.

This spread was a labor of love and a personal favor to my friends over at The Metropolis Magazine as they launch the new and improved Body & Soul section of the magazine which is a refreshing fashion forward segment dedicated to showcasing interesting and trendy areas all around Tokyo. This week spotlights Daikanyama. To read the full article go here.

Dr. Sketchy's Tokyo on the Metpod

2008-10-16T08:17:00.001+09:00

The Tokyo Metpod is the podcast version of The Metropolis Magazine, Tokyo’s #1 weekly English Language Magazine. This week Dr. Sketchy’s is mentioned as one of the hottest art events going down! Check it out here!

Mika Mondays

2008-10-13T08:29:00.005+09:00

Oh Dear!
We knew this day would come. This is the day where I completely miss the deadline and with DAMN good reason!
I'm on the road.
I'm in the traveling kid's production that pays my bread and butter and this just so happens to be a three day weekend here in Japan which means extra shows for me!
That's five, trampoline jumping, High kick swingin, back flip springin, explosive dance moving, high note belting energy charged shows!
FIVE SHOWS!
THREE DAYS!
With 10 minutes to check out from my hotel, this photo from fellow castmate IQ JANE of me hooping on the Shinkansen (bullet train) platform in the first city on this 3 city tour weekend is all I could manage for Mika Mondays.
May it please the court to know that I am currently listening to Grace Kelly by Mika as I type this and not for nothing a video has been recorded for this week to be released next Monday!

Murder Mystery

2008-10-08T22:44:00.002+09:00

The Tokyo Comedy Store was absolutely delighted when The Tyler Foundation approached us to be the entertainment for their annual fundraiser at the Hilton this year. The cast of Spontaneous Confusion joined forces with actors Donna Burke, Martin Burns, Lenne Hardt and Andrew Martinez to put on a Murder Mystery of Cluedo proportions. Check out what you missed!

Eye Opener

2008-10-07T12:11:00.003+09:00

Annie Leonard knows her Stuff!
Hers is basically a more digestable version of the message in Fight Club.
It's nothing you haven't heard before but totally worth the Reading Rainbow reminder.

Allow 20 minutes to watch.

Mika Mondays (Flea Market Hooping)

2008-10-06T22:00:00.006+09:00

Hey there Mika fans. This weekend beat the band. I went caving and kayaking organized a flea market for Dr. Sketchy's, learned how to make konyaku a Japanese gelatinous dish which truly is not worth the effort and celebrated the end of a colossal effort to bring a Murder Mystery to life for the Tyler Foundation...oh and I swallowed a sharp fish bone which still seems to be lodged in my throat but miraculously doesn't seem to be choking me.
The last 72 hours have been anything but boring and I'd be lying if the thought hadn't crossed my mind to skip out on you guys. To say to hell with Mika Mondays. To be perfectly honest getting out of bed this Monday was harder than all the events of this past weekend and the very LAST thing I wanted to do was spend hours editing footage...BUT I just couldn't do it.
I couldn't NOT do Mika Mondays! It was the weirdest thing. I've blown off plenty of other (arguably more significant) obligations in my day with relative ease but I actually felt BAD for even THINKING about not following through with Mika Mondays. So here I am, with literally minutes left until Monday is over here in Japan, Vimeo is still uploading and I'm not so sure I'll make the deadline but the beauty of living in Japan is that it's still the past somewhere else in the world since we see the present first! What a gift!
So for those of you out in GMT -5 this one is for you babe!

Mika Mondays 7 (Flea Market Hoop) from Lady Elle on Vimeo.

Special thanks to my best friend Akiko for the hoop battle, Dr. Sketchy's February model, Diana for helping with the Flea Market and Stuart for the great camera work. I couldn't have done any of it without you guys! If you missed the Dr. Sketchy's Flea Market, pics are here and if you missed September's Dr. Sketchy's pics are here.

Song: Relax, Take it Easy
By:Mika

PS. Yes Diana the hoop has a way of making every butt bootilicious.

PSS. If you happen to live overseas and your cable provider supports NHK WORLD you can check out the TV Show Tokyo Eye that features me caving, kayaking and cooking! Airs Thursday 15:15 JST October 16th. The last month I was featured in the chopsticks segment all details here.

Dr. Sketchy's Flea Market

2008-10-02T00:53:00.003+09:00

Dr. Sketchy’s is currently in the process of doing some major fund raising to host our very first gallery opening next month. We’ve teamed up with our March model, Dirty Dancing Diana to share a booth and sell Dr. Sketchy’s very own brand named sinfully sexy stockings and tights that would make any Harajuku girl squeal with delight! Come on out and support this Saturday as we sell in the name of art. Lady Elle will bring her hoops and dance for attention while Dirty Diana laughs without abandon.

Don’t miss the Dr. Sketchy’s sale happening at the
Flea Market in Shinjuku Chuo Koen (park) just in front of the fountain.

Saturday October 4th

11:00-16:00

Oedo Line to Tochomae (Shinjuku Chuo Koen exit)

Fartin' around

2008-10-01T23:01:00.004+09:00

I thought Spring time was hay fever season but apparently it can knock you down in the fall as well. While I've had issues with my actual plumbing my nose seems to run eternal lately. If only I could bathe in that translucent stream...ok that's gross even by my standards.
Moving on. All this sneezing has left me in a dazed itchy eyed, sweatshirt wearing, tea drinking, internet prowling stupor. This vid is the product of my red eyed perusing.

Animator vs. Animation II by *alanbecker on deviant ART
It's enough to make anyone's eyes water.
Hilarious!

Mika Mondays

2008-09-29T11:43:00.008+09:00

My good friend Mishal edited my first performance with Hooplovers thus giving me my first edit free pass on the Mika Mondays ride!

Thanks Mish!

*I'm the one with the white furry leg warmers.

Here's what I did with my Sunday night instead of prepping Mika Mondays. I made my flat go from fratboy clubhouse,

to functioning oasis

Cause after an action packed week of Dr. Sketchy's Anti-Art School, Tokyo,

Tyler Foundation Fundraising,

and high octane trampoline fueled children's entertainment

Life could use a little cool down.

Special thanks to IQ Jane for her backstage photo. Jane has done a wonderful job documenting life on the road with the English Carnival! If you wanna see more check out her flickr here.

Tokyo Hoop Stars

2008-09-25T09:43:00.004+09:00

Tokyo's main Hoop Guru, Deanne Tonking just left the island to train with the big dogs in San Francisco at an intensive hoop camp/retreat . Oh the jealousy in my heart knows no bounds, but in lieu of her delightful presence I leave you with a hoop video made by Hooplovers that highlights the hoop joy that she spread.

Tokyo Hoop Stars from hooplovers on Vimeo.
Come back soon Obi wan, we miss you already!

PS. If you watch till the end, I nearly take out someone with my hoop. Sorry good people of Shinjuku!

Mika Mondays Episode 5

2008-09-22T16:11:00.003+09:00

Hey there Hoop Groupies, this is the entry that almost never was. I was in the midst of dotting the (I)s and crossing the (T)s when my poor computer crashed and took with it all the editing I had done for the last 5 HOURS!
Tears were seriously shed as it was 2 in the morning and exhaustion was burning the back of my eyeballs.
BUT
All is not lost because even though we're already more than half way through Monday in Tokyo it's still Monday all over the world and there are plenty of hours still left in the day to enjoy the music and the hoop.
Today I bring you Mika Mondays in two segments.
The first is of course the video of me hooping to the music of a band I just recently discovered last week called FatBlueMan they are based out of Kansai in the Aichi Prefecture in the city of Nagoya which gets its reputation as basically being the Detroit of Japan but has oh so much more to offer than just cars. Front man John Janzen invited me to sit in on a jam session and they absolutely rocked my socks off.
So check out the LED hoop action as I rock out to their song Which Road Takes Me Home

Mika Mondays Episode 5 Part 1 from Lady Elle on Vimeo.

Next up are your FAQs and Comments. Since starting Mika Mondays the love has been pouring from all sides, thanks for all your wonderful questions and comments your energy is what kept me going last night so thanks for all of your amazing support!

Mika Mondays Episode 5 Part 2 from Lady Elle on Vimeo.

FatBlueMan

2008-09-22T14:39:00.006+09:00

While on tour this weekend with my own show I serendipitously was able to meet up with some of TokyoCooney's fans who I met while doing The TokyoCooney BlogTV show last week. It was shear coincidence that I was in Nagoya a day eariler than my show date and FatBlueMan invited me to come sit in on a jam session. The whole experience was a lot more interactive than I thought it would be. Gone are the days when groupies simply shook tambourines and swayed to the beat; now we're full on roadies who are responsible for documenting the journey. I had a great time filming this video for them. Can't wait to go back and see them live in concert. If you're ever in Nagoya, FatBlueMan should be on your list of things to do.

OMG I'm on Hooping.org

2008-09-18T09:46:00.007+09:00

OMG OMG OMG OMG!
Mika Mondays episode 4 got a shout out on Hooping.org. I am now for the next few hours the Hoop video of the day!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I'm absolutely OVER THE MOON!
That's at least 5 minutes of my 15 minutes of fame allotment.

And today I just got this email from Holly the Hoop angel who let me know about it.

"Hey Leila! I'm a hooper from San Diego Ca and saw your video on hooping.org. It's video of the day if you didn't know already, you should check it out! I just wanted to say I think it's awesome what you are doing to try and get into a Mika video, Honestly I don't really know who that is. Maybe he is more popular in Japan, that tends to happen musically as opposed to groups here in the US. But I wish you the best of luck with your journey and hope to someday see you in a MIKA video! Keep Hooping! Peace and Hoopiness ~Holly"

Did you read that!!!
She doesn't even know who Mika is!!!!
Is that even possible in this day and age??
Did I just introduce someone to the yummy lovey goodness of Mika!?!

Oh Happy Day indeed.

Internet Neutrality

2008-09-17T10:19:00.001+09:00

I have no idea if this is true, but these guys sound convincing enough for me to share this disturbing youtube video (Techy, hipster, European accents always sound more convincing than dodgy American ones) Internet Neutrality seems to be under siege according to them. If this is true major telecommunications corporations are now working together to create a network of uniting ISP addresses so that the world wide web as we know it will work more like cable TV and we the consumer will begin to pay for a package of "channels" (sites) that we can visit. I don't know about you but that sounds pretty blog worthy.
Please allow 12 minutes to watch.

On the other hand, upon searching for this video, I found it originated on a youtube channel called AtheneWins, a soft porn site started by the host of this segment, Tania.

Not saying porn stars can't be activists...
...but do more research before you take action.
If all of this is true than it's time that we BE the change we seek!
Cause as you can see:
The revolution will not be televised!
The revolution is HERE!

Tokyo Cooney

2008-09-17T03:05:00.002+09:00

It's always nice to work with friends and today is no exception. Today one of the city's most beloved stand-up comedians Kevin Cooney is launching a new web TV show live on blogTV.com inspired by his insanely popular youtube series TokyoCooney He will be broadcasting live with armed with nothing but his webcam, a microphone and a dream and he has invited me to be his first guest! I'm super excited about the opportunity be apart of this grand experiement and wish him nothing but the best ratings the internet has to offer. So tune in to Tokyo Cooney later today!

Wow my first talk show!
Seriously hope you can catch it!

Sayoonara Chief Auntie Km

2008-09-16T23:27:00.006+09:00

My Auntie Kim just got pinned today!
No not laid.
PINNED!

As in promoted! To CHIEF!
(and I got to do the honors)
ALL HAIL CHIEF PETTY OFFICER AUNTIE KIM!
My Aunt and I grew up like sisters. We're only one year apart and so I say Auntie rather cheekily but I couldn't be more proud of her!
This day is monumental for oh sooo many reasons!

My Grandpa, may he rest in peace, was a Navy Seal and made it as far as E6 (Enlisted 6 = Petty Officer) and his daughter just surpassed him after vowing to do so just month's before he passed. She was promoted after just 11 years of service while it takes some Naval guys their entire careers to make Chief! We always knew she had the right stuff.
The moment was bitter sweet for me as this was also the day I had to say good-bye to her. She's somewhere over the Pacific in route to her next duty station so Auntie Kim if you paid the extra 10 bucks for internet access on the plane and you're reading this, I just wanted to say thank you for coming to Japan and supporting me while I worked to make my dreams come true. It was an honor to be with you while you realized yours.

You made it Auntie!
Grandpa is smiling down on you honey!
Congratulations!
I LOVE YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

PS. Special thanks to the McGinnis family pictured here. You were the perfect surrogate family. Destiny, Lydia, Jade I will NEVER forget you!

Mika Mondays #4 - Tochomae

2008-09-15T09:47:00.004+09:00

Hello Mika,
Happy Monday! In this week's installment of Mika Mondays (the weekly segment dedicated to auditioning for one of your music videos) I went to The Tokyo Tocho (Government building) as it is virtually my backyard. I love this area of Tokyo because it's got wide open spaces which are absolutely ideal for hooping. When I first moved into the neighborhood I absolutely fell in love with the round sculpture and fountain in the courtyard and I knew that I was destined to hoop there. So this week's Mika offering is extra special because I've captured two visions with one wish.
MM 4 - Tochomae from Lady Elle on Vimeo.

Location: Tokyo Tocho
Music: Sweet Dreams By: Mika

Special thanks this week to Graig Russell for being my awesome cameraman and Daniel "Danz" Perez, Fashion photographer who gave me a few tips on the technical end of things.

Enjoy
And don't forget to spread the word!

Ohashi, Podcasting and Charity oh my...

2008-09-13T22:59:00.007+09:00

Making a TV show about ohashi (chopsticks) is almost like making a Mika music video...

kind of...in a way...

not all.

But it was still loads of fun. This week I got the not so unique opportunity to be a featured broadcaster on a show called Tokyo Eye in which I not only got to visit an authentic chopstick shop in Omotesando but I spent the afternoon playing Santa's little helper with a wooden toy maker in Kichijoji where I crafted a pair of the wonkiest chopsticks this side of The Tachikawa. The episode will air in one week on NHK World, which is the cable news portion of the broadcasting giant so if you live overseas and subscribe to NHK World or just so happen to be in a hotel in Honk Kong, Dubai or Mumbai check it out!

Meanwhile back on the ranch...
The Tokyo Metpod is getting record hits due to it's rockin new ad in the back of The Metropolis. If you look closely you can see that I'm featured in a thumbnail photo about the size of a bee's dick in the far right column.

I'm also ecstatic to announce that The Tyler Foundation Benefit dinner is now sold out! The Murder Mystery that The Comedy Store gang has been lovingly slaving away it will have the packed house it deserves and we are all pleased as punch.

Save the children through Murder Mystery Musicals!...
(It's a catch phrase in progress)

Oh Charlie

2008-09-10T00:13:00.000+09:00

This oldie but goodie was on my mind today. I have 3 brothers all born in September and I can't remember a single birthday but I think about them always and I love to watch these little boys whenever I get particularly busy because they really do put it all in perspective.
Poor Harry goes through the entire history and gamut of human emotion, love, trust, fear, joy, angst, forgiveness etc in about 30 seconds and comes out relatively unscathed, a little bit wiser and still generally happy with life and his little brother.

Thanks Charlie!
Happy Birthday Omar, Yusef and Eric!

MM #3 Utter Exhaustion

2008-09-08T08:03:00.005+09:00

Some days living the dream is a little more exhausting than others. Last week was soooo full on that while I had time to shoot some cool footage around the city, I kinda fell down in the editing department. So I cheated.
I used some old footage from the cutting room floor of a previous entry.
It's short and sweet and still chalked full of yummy pipe dream goodness.

Mika Mondays #3 from Lady Elle on Vimeo.

Location: Shibuya Crossing (Think Lost in Translation)
Music: Lollipop By: Mika
Yay! Mika Mondays survived another week!
SPREAD THE WORD!

Dr. Sketchy's Facelift

2008-09-05T11:42:00.003+09:00

Dr. Sketchy's Anti-Art School, Tokyo is BAAAAAAAAAAAAAACK!
And with a brand new website.
Which I designed myself, with a palette full of new features.
We've got Tokyo's hottest Burlesque performers with inspiration oozing out of every orafice. The Dr. Sketchy's fall line-up is one you don't want to miss. Stay tuned every 4th Wednesday of the month for more details. So come for the sketching and stay for the outrageous new contests, sexy models and hilarious hosts.

The next Dr. Sketchy's will be
Wednesday September 24th
Exclusively at The Pink Cow.
Doors open at 6p
Sketching begins at 7p
www.drsketchytokyo.com

Broke and Fulfilled

2008-09-04T09:03:00.004+09:00

Yes that's right. I'm broke. Not in the destitute, nearly homeless and starving kind of way but rather in the no parties and extracurricular activities sort of way. Outside of the bare necessities, food, bills, taxes (yuck) I'm grounded by my own undoing until OCTOBER. YIKES! And this is not a complaint or a plea for charity but just an observation about the life of a freelancer and my own state of being because while I have absolutely no disposable income to speak of, I can honestly say that I can't remember a time when I was more happy. What's that about? In July when my accounts were knee deep in the black I was utterly miserable and now I'm experiencing an absolute creative boon as they creep closer into the red!

Dr. Sketchy's is gaining unprecedented momentum. I have managed to gather a team of vibrant, colorful and remarkably creative people who are dedicated to all things artistic and I couldn't be more ecstatic to dive into the latest session.
Mika Mondays has gotten such wonderful responses that I am filled with renewed energy everyday when I go to the park to practice and now wish everyday was MONDAY! (How many people with straight jobs can say that!)
Then there is the charity work. Ever since Inspiration Jason introduced me to my cookie factory friends I can't stop the machine and now I'm involved in a Murder Mystery Play for a charity benefit for The Tyler Foundation which is dedicated to children's cancer research.

So while I'm not displeased with my current situation, this is just another ebb within the flow of a freelancing lifestyle, I'm left feeling a little apprehensive about my earning potential. I wonder if I am able to sustain such creative energy when the money train finally does pull in. Struggle seems to be the secret ingredient to creative success. I have found there is grace in struggling the mind really does open up when challenges abound and the experience so far it has been exhilarating. Money seems to be the antithesis of struggle. Isn't the old adage "The rich have it easy." And don't we all secretly want to know the feeling? My social life can weather this financial storm but I imagine it will get old eventually and then what?!

Only time will tell I suppose. I'll let you know how creative I feel in October!

Blossomed Dream

2008-09-03T21:23:00.003+09:00

My friend Conor over at The Pillow Blog has just dotted the I(s) and crossed all the T(s) in a draft of his new upcoming book! And judging by the first chapter which he allowed me to sneak peak, I predict it will be a best seller. The pride and excitement I feel for him couldn't be greater if it were my own and the achievement of such a feat is worthy of praise unto itself. The blank page is the most treacherous terrain I have ever had to endure and I have failed many times so kudos to you Conor for following your path and sticking to your ever blossoming dreams. You give me hope baby! Eat your heart out Random House!

Mika Mondays episode 2

2008-09-01T19:31:00.005+09:00

Welcome to another installment of Mika Mondays. For those of you who don't know, Mondays on Leilachan is dedicated to my inner teenager; the one I didn't listen to enough 10 years ago and who is finally getting a voice in the form of a series of online auditions to be in a Mika music video. I consider this the last of my MTV exploits before I magically become adult-like upon my 30th birthday. It's my lingering pipe dream, one which I'm giving my all to and should my efforts actually payoff I've got 10 more pipe dreams waiting for their chance to make it. So here's to you Mika and all the other groupies over 25 may the party never end!

Mika Mondays #2 from Lady Elle on Vimeo.

Music: Ne-yo -Closer (Stonebridge Remix) brought to you by Hooping.org
Remember to help spread the word!
Bloggers unite for Mika!...and me

Light Show

2008-08-29T22:04:00.003+09:00

Usually I don't dane to talk about the weather in my blog but it has rained in Tokyo for over a week now and today takes the cake. Right now as I type there is a thunderstorm of Forrest Gump proportions going on outside my window. The kind of storm you turn off the lights and unplug the appliances for. The kind of storm where you just stare out your window cause it feels like God in concert and you've got front row tickets. I just cycled through it on my way home from work and as the lightening struck and the thunder sounded so loud that I could feel it through my tires I can honestly say I don't remember a moment when I felt more alive.

This truly awesome display of nature just makes you BELIEVE!

Sketchy Male Models

2008-08-27T22:10:00.003+09:00

Men always ask me if they can be models for Dr. Sketchy's and I usually turn them down but now I have decided to change my tune. After watching Dmitry Bulkin do this amazing Pole Dance I've decided that hey guys, if you've got the skills to move like this and a body sculpted by Russian gods, then yeah, you can be on my stage.

Watch closely, though the bar is verticle, it has most certainly been raised!

Mika Mondays

2008-08-25T12:31:00.005+09:00

I love to Hoop.
I love to listen to Mika.
And ever since The Buggles broke the video barrier on MTV, I've wanted to be in a music video.
Today all my passions shall collide!

I have decided to devote Mondays on this blog to Mika audition videos like this one.
It's my virtual message in a bottle.
Help spread it to the world and put this whole 6 degrees theory to the ultimate test!

It's the perfect way to kick my own ass and practice everyday. I'm expecting you all to hold me accountable! Yikes!

This brilliant idea was brought to you by Ze Frank the foremost authority on brain crack.
Thanks Ze!

Stay tuned!

Sex and the City

2008-08-22T10:05:00.005+09:00

So it's been much awaited here in Tokyo and FINALLY, the eagle has landed-
SEX AND THE CITY premieres TONIGHT in TOKYO!!!!!!!!

For about a month now I have been a contributor on the Metpod; the radio/podcast version of The Metropolis Magazine, Tokyo's #1 English language magazine. This week's episode is dedicated to the much awaited Tokyo debut of SATC. Go HERE to listen to me and the Metpod gang weigh in on Tokyo's favorite city chicks!

Summer fun

2008-08-16T22:55:00.011+09:00

What a difference a week can make. Far away from my computer in a place where mobile reception was horrible at best, sand crept into the most sacred crevices and bugs the size of my big toe dined on my flesh with the kind of reckless abandon you only witness at Las Vegas all you can eat buffets and yet I loved every single minute of it!

My colleague turned close buddy Kai Neptune, invited a group of us to her hometown for Obon (a week long summer holiday in August where Japanese return to their hometown to pay homage to their ancestors (it's the closest thing they've got to Halloween minus the ghosts, goblins and costumes)) Kai is one of those rare gaijin who was actually born and raised in Japan. Her father is John Kaizan Neptune a Shakuhachi player/maker (Japanese Bamboo Flute) and until last week I wouldn't have been able to tell the difference between a Shakuhachi and a basic recorder!

Kaizansan (Japanese for cool gaijin shakuhachi dude) was in the midst of making a NHK documentary in his mountain hideaway when we arrived but he was a fantastically gracious host amid the chaos and even took time to give us a few drum lessons on a bamboo drum called the Udubu that he invented!

Stepping foot into the Neptune's Pentagonal Dome house in the middle of the forests of the Japanese landscape is truly like visiting another planet. A peaceful, calming planet where monkeys tap your skylight as you sleep and spiderwebs act as natural mosquito netting. I must admit I spent much of the first half of the week getting over my fear of the bugs but surrendering to this slow life style was not at all difficult and time truly seemed to stand still on those mountains which is why I'm amazed and saddened that the week has ended so soon. Kai, if you're reading this honey, thanks for everything; I'm counting down the days till round 2!

Haven't seen enough of me and my pin-up friends. You can find more pics here.

That's Cabaret!

2008-08-11T10:05:00.005+09:00

My alter ego Lady Elle of Dr. Sketchy's Tokyo hung up her cabaret shoes for the month of August but Leilachan still needed to do more research into the burlesque scene in Tokyo in order to recruit more models for the up coming fall season. And what a scene it is! Last month's Dr. Sketchy model, Cherry Typhoon invited me to a litany of Cabaret performances all over the Tokyo Metropolitan area and it has been quite the eye opening experience into the underground scene of cabaret. This weekend's series of shows was held at The Amazon Club a real old fashioned Speakeasy in Downtown Yokohama. Fronted as an old Barber shop, the back rooms of this old pub where General MacArthur himself hung out, are sultry cabaret performers with more spice than you can find on Wolfgang Puck's rack! Saturday evening began at The Puk Puppet Theater in Shinjuku with a fairytale cabaret performance by Cherry Typhoon and an amazing singer/musician whose name eludes me but whose voice captured my imagination. She sang like a songbird very ethereal and enchanting and not at all typical for a Japanese performer! Her agile fingers tickled a wide range of instruments showcasing her spectacular musicianship and rhythmic wit. Together they created a world where traditional fairytales like Cinderella and Snow White collided with themes from Alice and Wonderland and the Wizard Oz to create a Tim Burton-esque wildly exotic and at times phantasmogoric spectacle of cheeky humor and daring erotica. Then it was off to Yokohama for some good old fashioned debauchery. 6 hours and 267 photos later the sun rose over MacArthur's old stomping ground and I stumbled home amongst the early morning commuters convinced that my night was better than their day would be!

OMG

2008-08-07T15:40:00.003+09:00

Watching Mona aka Shpongled Hoops totally made me question my sexuality but not my love of the HOOP!
I mean OMG!!
Is all I can really say to this performance.

I'm off to the park!
I've got some serious catching up to do!

Ze Frank on TED

2008-08-07T13:08:00.004+09:00

Ze Frank has literally taken over huge chunks of mental real estate this month. In case you didn't know August is Live A Calmer Existence month and in an attempt to slow down and take it easy I have let my imagination co-pilot my life for awhile and the journey to discovering fresh ideas and new experiences has led me to one extraordinarily witty and poignant web toy designer Ze Frank. His TED talk which I've posted here is great but I appreciate him more in the short video format which he has perfected in a web series called The Show. Each webisode is chocked full of fast paced witticism, imagination and pure intelligence. There's a little somethin somethin for everyone! I can feel the creative juices flowing already!

Allow 20 minutes to view the TED Talk.

Hooping for Cookies!

2008-08-06T11:21:00.011+09:00

My friend and colleague, who I like to call Inspiration Jason, recently invited me to come volunteer at a community center/cookie factory where he regularly spends his time with the mentally disabled in Sangenjaya over in Setagaya-ku.

The Shimouma Fukushi Center is dedicated to employing the mentally challenged as a means of incorporating them into the workforce and giving them a useful skill that enriches not only their lives but those of others in the community.
Walking into the community center is an experience unto iteslf. The sublimely nostalgic aroma of cookies from every part of your childhood permeates the floor where they are baked and your serotonin levels are involuntarily thrust into the stratosphere of pure elation as those big bright smiles greet you at the front door more happy to see you than Santa Claus HIMSELF!
These hard workers have earned the respect of the omiage (souvenir) making community. Their cookies have been rated #3 in Japan as the most preferred omiage to give away during the holiday season! And it's easy to see why; you can literally taste the love coming out every morsel. Their positive energy is infectious and by the end of my visit I was jumping around just as much as they were!

Working at a community center isn't all work an no play so at the end of their busy day in the factory they usually wind down with some fun organized activity. Jason shared his love of dance, teaching everything from Hula to disco while I was in charge of all things Hoop-tastic!

After a brief demonstration on the LED hoop my new baker friends were ready to give the hoop a whirl, albeit slightly hesitant at first.

It didn't take many trials to get it right and before I knew it I was competing to keep up with THEM!! The time just flew by and with it all their inhibitions. The joy in the room was palpable. I'll definitely be going back!

For more information about The Shimouma Fukushi Center go here.
or call this number 03 5712 5103*

*Neither the website or phone number is available in English BUT volunteers of ALL Nationalities and language abilities are welcome. Have a Japanese friend set up an appointment. You'll be glad you did!

Cancelled Pride?!?!

2008-08-04T00:31:00.007+09:00

The proverbial "THEY" are at it again!
You know those jerks who always get blamed whenever something goes wrong,
when things are not right...
The people to look for when your mail gets mis-sorted,
when the parking rules arbitrarily change or
when there aren't enough hot dog rolls for all the hot dogs in a pack!!

Well those screwballs have now canceled Tokyo's Gay Pride Parade, an event that usually coincides with the Ni Chome Annual Matsuri (summer festival) And after taking a page straight out of the book of these NYC Queens, (watch as the Rockefeller City rent-a-cops try to break up the festivities!!)

some of the most fiercely dedicated fag hags in Tokyo have decided to rally together and do something about it!

The UNOFFICIAL Gay Pride Extravaganza
Where: Yoyogi Park (near the fountain)
When: Saturday August 9th
Time: 2p-till your hat melds to your head!

For more information go here and here.

Comedian Kevin Cooney

2008-08-03T00:10:00.002+09:00

Kevin Cooney or TokyoCooney as he's known on Youtube is a stand-up comedian, writer and director here in Tokyo. He writes The Negi which of course is Tokyo's version of The Onion. The Negi is featured every first Friday of the month in The Metropolis Magazine and definitely delivers the funny with a little wasabi on the side! Over the years I've worked with him on a number of projects the last of which was this little gem which I probably should save until we get closer to the next Comedy Store event but it just tickles me so much.

Earlier this past Spring Kevin Cooney and The Comedy Store gang filmed a collection of short comedy sketches to promote The Tokyo Comedy Store which had staggered release dates. I'm sorry to say that this is the last installment in that project but with your help we can collectively twist Cooney's virtual arm to keep the good times rolling. So go leave a little comment on his vlog to show your love!

Summer Renewal

2008-08-02T15:17:00.005+09:00

Gotta new pad.
In a new neighborhood.
With new appliances and a fresh outlook on life, it was only natural that a new blog should follow (or a cosmetically enhanced one anyway)
As with any dramatic change in life I can feel myself becoming increasingly giddy at the prospect of exploring this new world with Calvin and Hobbes-like enthusiasm.
July was a tempestuous month full of transition and uncertainty and I'm happy to say that August feels like wading through a still pond in a deserted mountain alcove and I am slowly rediscovering the joys of my old hobbies like hooping and loafing about. I was finally able to dust off my hoops after a month long hiatus and give those babies a spin in the gorgeous park that the universe granted me after months of hooping in my ultra cramped living room. Last night I performed in the living room of my new neighbor Ryusuke Takahashi* who lives just off the park. Not too far from me.

I stopped by his place after dropping in on our mutual neighbor Kenji Yamashita** only to discover he was out for the evening.

Even though Yamashitasan couldn't join us Takahashisan and I had a very spirited evening as I swayed and moved my hips to the park after hours soundtrack of cicadas and crickets croaking to the beat of the water fountain in the center of the plaza. By the time I was finished with my hoop set poor Takahashisan was...well he was...overcome with excitement and I had to leave him slumped in quieted revelry.

*Names have been changed.
**Actually names have been made up due to the lack of journalistic integrity.

Sweet Neglect

2008-07-24T14:28:00.013+09:00

My poor neglected blog, how I hate to torture thee. Take a peak dear fans at some of the other things that have split my attention as of late. It all started with a commercial shoot for #1 Travel (viewable on CNN on Skyperfect TV only) that took place at an izakaya (a Japanese tapas bar for all intents and purposes) where all the props were real, including the BEER! 27 takes later,

I feigned sobriety as I went home to pack and move into my new place! And every good pack out needs some good grooves to keep the movers moving especially in 28 degree heat! Enter this Fatboy Slim gem which has served as my naked soundtrack all summer long (warning: may not be suitable for viewing in the work place).

Then the big Typhoon hit...

CHERRY TYPHOON that is!
CT made her Dr. Sketchy's debut at ultra decadent Tableaux for Biz Nites and they are still mopping the drool off the dance floor after her sultry performance.
Then it was off to the Opera to watch Akiko Otao bring the house down in The Marriage of Figaro where her Cherebino knocked the socks off of a packed standing room only house!

The fat lady needs to move over cause there is a new diva in town. After 5 encores we celebrated on the 15th floor of Shibuya's luxurious Legato Restaurant where a breathtaking view of the Tokyo skyline served as the perfect backdrop to celebrate Ms. Otao's 25th Birthday!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BFF!

Phew! What a month!

Cherry Typhoon @ Biz Nites

2008-07-12T00:44:00.005+09:00

Biz Nites is buzz worthy. This monthly networking event brings together Tokyo's most dedicated movers and shakers and Monday July 14th is no exception. Dr. Sketchy's own Cherry Typhoon will be there giving the crowd a sneak peak at what can be expected at the next sizzling hot Dr. Sketchy's event, Wednesday July 23rd at The Pink Cow.

For this installment of Biz Nites John Lynch has teamed up with Dr. Sketchy photographer, Martine Cotton to organize a night of glamorous presentations about all things French!

Date: Monday July 14th
Place: Tableaux (Daikanyama/Ebisu)
Time: 6p-11:30p

Pussy Party

2008-07-04T21:51:00.004+09:00

If you've never been to a Pussy Party here is what you missed. DJ Cat sauntered into town from NYC and Hooplovers had the honor of being her Pussy Parade at Club Warhouse702. As you know Super Hooper Deanne Tonking turned pro earlier this year and has been performing her solo act non-stop around Tokyo's hottest clubs and bars but yesterday marked the debut of her new Hoop Troupe sponsored by Hooplovers.com and I'm happy to say that I'm a proud card carrying member!

PS. I am the one with the white furry leg warmers!

Sizzling Hot Summer Job

2008-07-03T14:32:00.007+09:00

This summer I've decided to stay in Tokyo and slave away building the Dr. Sketchy's Tokyo Empire and becoming a world class Super Hooper. It's been such hard, strenuous, stressful, tedious work and scheduling meetings, printing promotional materials and talking to the press can really take it's toll on a person. Why just yesterday I had to drag myself to Beautified Taboo, an art exhibition which featured former Dr. Sketchy's Tokyo Model,Justin Berti and other modern and performance artists dedicated to challenging today's cultural taboos. Forcing myself to schmooze with potential clients and models sometimes feels like I'm stepping so far out of my comfort zone, really I don't know how much longer I can dedicate myself to the pursuit of spreading art to the masses.

This model in particular was so persistent about being the next Dr. Sketchy's Model that he insisted I give him my card even though he had no where to put it!

Talking to models can be soo tedious sometimes but it's part of the job you know, so I just deal with it as best I can.

In other news Tokyo's Hooping sensation Deanne Tonking and I will be hooping with Poi Ball enthusiast Lindsey Scott at Warehouse702 in Azabu Juban Tonight at DJ Cat's Pussy Party for more information go here or here.

Really it's a tough life but somehow I'll get through the summer!

Cherry Typhoon...

2008-07-01T14:33:00.003+09:00

...of The Murasaki Baby Dolls has arrived!
This lovely lady of the night will be the next Dr. Sketchy's starlite!
Move over Josephine Cherry Typhoon is coming to shake her shimmy!

Don't miss this warm weather front July 23rd only at The Pink Cow!
www.drsketchytokyo.com for more details!

Today's Happy Thought

2008-06-30T15:44:00.002+09:00

Enjoy

www.wherethehellismat.com

Sketchy Office Party Memo

2008-06-22T09:15:00.005+09:00

For this month's Dr. Sketchy's Burlesque Anti-Art School Sketch Drawing Event we contemplated a Sketchy interpretation of the classic June wedding but decided that in honor of the stench of the subway bound salary man we would throw a Sketchy Office Party in keeping with Former Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi's tradition of cool biz!

Wednesday June 25 @ 7p
Office Party in the basement of The Pink Cow LTD.
TPS Reports required.
The punch WILL be spiked!

Tokyo Freeze 2008

2008-06-18T00:33:00.001+09:00

While cruising the streets of Harajuku Sunday afternoon, hoops in tow, looking for a nice veggie meal to sate our bottomless appetites, Superhooper Deanne and I serendipitously caught up with the organizers of Tokyo Freeze 2008. This event is one part street art, one part improv and one part theater inspired by this

The Grand Central Freeze in New York.

This is the Tokyo version.

Living the Dream

2008-06-16T00:44:00.015+09:00

If you build it...

...they will come.

Hooplovers hoop classes are now a dazzlingly reality at Claska in Meguro.
Sign up TODAY!

Dreams are truly just unborn realities I've come to realize. My day usually begins somewhere in the 7:00am hour and ends somewhere in the 1:00am hour and on any given day between those hours I can be found dancing with my sparkly hula hoops, memorizing scripts, rehearsing for the Tokyo Comedy Store, entertaining small children, traveling all over this great nation, returning scores of emails, brainstorming Dr. Sketchy ideas, recruiting Dr. Sketchy's staff and volunteers and generally having the time of my life pursuing EVERY single dream that captures my heart at any given moment.
This high octane, concentrated focus is inspired by a determination to live a life of true Kerouacian proportions. But I've come to understand that living the dream doesn't always promise a life filled with smooth hoopnotic rhythms and wicked costume changes, there have been times along this bumpy ride when the beat has been severely syncopated where nights crash haltingly into the dawn. Days when love feels elusive and the line between personal and professional life have been blurred to the point of being unrecognizable. Even now as I look at my daily planner I see that my last true day off was May 2. And I wouldn't trade one of those red eyed, genki drink fueled, stamina tested nights for all the colored wigs at Tokyu Hands
because this is what it means to follow your aspirations down the rabbit hole.

This is what it means to dance like no one is watching.

This is what it means to sing like no one is listening.

This is what it means to simply BE who you were meant to BE.

Fifteen minutes from this moment the sun will rise again to signal a new day's adventure.
I can't wait!

This could be YOU!

2008-06-13T09:01:00.004+09:00

ATTENTION: CALLING ALL MODELS
If you've ever wondered about it...
Now's your chance!
Dr. Sketchy's Tokyo is looking for new talent!
Dr. Sketchy's is a theme based sketch drawing event so your theme is based on your own tastes and talents.

Hey girls, it's a paid position plus tips from our very generous audience. The more you take off or reveal the more you usually get in tips!

Go here and here for more details and information.

Birthday High

2008-06-10T16:55:00.002+09:00

My birthday was just yesterday and I'm still riding the wave of euphoria! There's nothing like celebrating the day you were born to give you a renewed and refreshed outlook on life. A BIG THANK YOU goes out to Akiko for organizing the perfect intimate night out of debauchery and bliss. I truly loved the Drag show honey, you know me soooo well! Deanne, Tomomi and Sam your loyalty knows no bounds even when I am at the height of crazy you're always there to keep me grounded and show me love. Thanks for celebrating with me yesterday. My blessings are ever abundant and I think I'm proof positive that when you change your mental frequency the world really does yield to your every whim.

May was a grinding month of rehearsals and personal instability so apologies to all the fans of this blog for neglecting you so. You have shown me nothing but love and believe me I've felt it through the hard times. Why just today I had the most enchanting, spirited conversation with a lovely Frenchman based in Singapore who stopped by this corner of cyberspace and shared a truly cosmic French Connection! So thanks to all those anonymous superhighway adventurers who take an interest in this little cyber nook. Your presence is felt and appreciated!

What I'd Rather Be Doing Right Now...

2008-05-27T01:03:00.001+09:00

Karis I live for you baby!

Wordless Wednesdays

2008-05-20T23:41:00.001+09:00

Spontaneous Confusion only at The Tokyo Comedy Store
Friday May 28th at The Crocodile in Shibuya

The Japanese Office

2008-05-20T00:16:00.003+09:00

Japan has been such a wonderful host country but every now and then I get a kick out of spoofing it!
This clip just cracks me up!
It's so wrong...

...yet it feels so right!

NYTimes ways in on Hula Hoops

2008-05-19T00:42:00.002+09:00

...and it's not pretty.
more here.
Let's just say that my mental back up singers Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell chanted "Ain't Nothing Like the Real Thing Baby" as I shook my head in virtual disbelief!

Tokyo Comedy Store on Racism

2008-05-17T17:53:00.004+09:00

Tokyo Comedy Store
Every 4th Friday at The Crocodile in Shibuya.

Wordless Wednesday

2008-05-14T23:31:00.009+09:00

Beginner classes now available in Tokyo.
Join NOW!
Hooplovers
Tokyo Hoop Stars

Double Dutch

2008-05-13T10:57:00.001+09:00

I'm in rehearsals again and this time my director has me going back to my roots.
I'm jumping double dutch for the first time in ten years.
Lucky I'm in Japan though cause it seems like the all-stars live here.
Check out the moves from Chiba!

Earthquake Blues

2008-05-09T08:40:00.003+09:00

The universe certainly has a since of humor. I'm in the middle of the most intense dance rehearsals I've had since the Clinton Administration and my sleep has been interrupted twice in a row by these damn earthquakes. I'm also reading a book about the plasticity of the brain and the power of imagination, so now I'm trying to imagine myself floating in a bed of water instead trembling on an over active fault line. What have you been doing to get through?

Wordless Wednesday

2008-05-07T00:00:00.007+09:00

Dr. Sketchy's Tokyo

Let's get physical!

2008-05-05T18:00:00.006+09:00

It's GOLDEN WEEK!
A fabulous week of traditional Japanese holidays that means just one thing for this party girl. NO WORK!!! YAY! To kick off the holidays this past weekend's exploits were cardio-vascular in nature.

Friday night the girls and I danced the night away at Las Chicas and Mado Lounge then I headed over to Ebisu on Saturday for a few nostalgic games of volleyball before rounding it out with a solid hoop session on Sunday in Yoyogi park.

Phew.
Today I think will be best spent in a nice warm lavender scented oily bath.

Happy Golden Week friends!

Follow Through

2008-05-02T14:12:00.003+09:00

My horoscope this morning said not to start any new projects until I finished the old. For the last 5 months, I've been threatening to finish a scrapbook for my G-ma. So far Valentine's, her Birthday and soon Mother's day will all have passed and she has received nothing from me! My college roomie, Janet was also meant to receive a care package to no avail. So today is dedicated to follow through!
I'm happy to report the scrapbook is finished!
The care package is wrapped!
All they need is postage and so today I've decided to brave the post office!
Next on the list
WORLD DOMINATION!
I'll keep you posted!

YES WE CAN

2008-04-28T10:51:00.005+09:00

Ah precious internet how I love thee. I've been perusing The Facebook, hitting it a little harder than usual making up for a weekend spent out of town and away from my beloved hard drive. And what do you know, I stumbled upon a gem of inspiration of TED Talks proportions. Over at Dipdive.com Will.I.Am of the Black Eyed Peas was inspired to turn politics into powerful performance, peppered with just enough glamorously inspirational testimonials to get this blogger on her feet and out to the post box to mail off her absentee ballot. For more information about the U.S election process and how to vote absentee go here and here.

Wordless Wednesday

2008-04-23T11:08:00.007+09:00

I saw this concept on Lulu's blog over at Cherry Blossom Adventures and decided to give it a whirl.
A Dr. Sketchy Models exhibition.
Enjoy.

Sketchy Olympics

2008-04-22T00:42:00.004+09:00

I know. I know. Lately the ole blog just looks like one Sketchy advert after another. But look at THIS.

That's the model for Dr. Sketchy's April Event!
This WEDNESDAY 4/23
Doors open at 6p Show time at 7p
You sooo don't want to miss this.
details HERE!
That's all I'm saying.

A Sketchy Earth Day

2008-04-21T01:11:00.009+09:00

What a weekend!
It really is all a blur and so are the pictures but well worth the dizzying effort. If you couldn't make it to the Dr. Sketchy 1st Birthday party at Velours you missed one truly unforgettable spectacle. The Anniversary celebration marked the launch of the new Dr. Sketchy's Tokyo logo and fashion extravaganza for trendy-chic t-shirt designer Chief & Mischief. Super Hooper Deanne of TokyoMade kicked off the evening with a stellar hoop performance that set the mood just right.

Her hypnotic hips and LED hoop were certain crowd pleasers that kept everyone drooling for more. Then Stacy, the Voguing High Priestess of Velouria mesmerized the crowd with sensational cape tricks.

And rounding off the evening with a truly scandalous strip tease was Bex, the Costuming Temptress of the Night. So sizzling was her performance that we nearly were escorted out stage left for over-exposure!!!

More pics here.
Many more curious Sketchers were added to the Dr. Sketchy fold and the buzz surrounding Chief & Mischief, reached new heights as models and promoters alike sported the new Spring line down the catwalk at the ultra glamorous after hours lounge, Velours.

Sunday I was off to save the World, through hooping of course!
Super Hooper, Deanne organized a lovely day of Hoops and Mother Nature. One only needed to get to her, a challenge that was met with many colorful distractions. The first of which was the stupifying 20 minute traffic jam at the Harajuku turnstile but once I made it out and swiveled my hips in the direction of Yoyogi Park; I bumped into two revelers from the night before taking in the usual Sunday parade of Goth Lolitas loitering on the boulevard for all the shutter happy tourists.
Picking up speed we made our way passed all the foot weary dancing Elvi and onto the Green where the Hooping Fairy godmother awaited us with open hoops and a heartwarming smile. The rest of the day is a story the pictures tell better than I.

Enjoy.

SKETCHY ANNIVERSARY PARTY TONIGHT

2008-04-19T12:37:00.006+09:00

It's our BIRTHDAY and everyone is invited! Dr. Sketchy's Tokyo has teamed up with Chief & Mischief and TokyoMade for Volume 2 of the infamous STITCH fashion party. Of course no Sketchy party is complete without stunning models and hypnotic beats and this birthday bash will feature a bevy of hot models to sink your sketchpads into. Not to mention Tokyo's premiere HoopStar Sushizume who will be sashaying her electro hoop in true raver fashion.

Print this flyer for a discount!

Where: Velours (Aoyama/Ometesando)

When: April 19 From 9:00p-First Train

¥¥¥ = Men (¥2500 w/flyer ¥2000)

Women (¥2000 w/flyer ¥1500 +1 drink)

A Dr. Sketchy's Event

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AUNTIE KIM

2008-04-16T13:27:00.004+09:00

I know you're out there on the high seas,
wishing for land against the cool breeze.
Longing for a birthday cozy at home,
imagining a celebration not spent all alone.
I've got just the thing to lift your spirits.
Put on some headphones so Master Chief won't hear it.
It's a birthday song with a little French flair.
Be careful at work cause the subject's an ass.
But it's right up your alley cause it's rude and quite crass!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AUNTIE KIM!!

Braving the Kitchen

2008-04-14T23:19:00.006+09:00

I have a cold.
What's the old adage...
Feed a cold. Starve a fever??
With no roommate and no family around to cater to my every stuffy-nosed whim I had to do it. I had to step into the kitchen and prepare a healthy healing meal.
As I perused the aisles of my local super market I felt a kind of empowerment. I was in control, taking responsibility and facing my heartfelt dread of the kitchen.
What to make what to make...

I returned home, arms loaded with fresh organic everything and immediately went to work. Miraculously the house is still standing though my bangs are slightly singed. On the menu for tonight's feast:
Apple and tomato peppered salad with toasted almonds and Thai yellow curry over Jasmine rice.

Aah I feel better already!

So much to look forward to!

2008-04-11T11:44:00.006+09:00

The sun is out.
My funk has lifted.
And this weekend promises to be action packed. Saturday night will be spent chillin in Osaka with my good friend, Master Rakugo performer and balloon artist extrodinaire Diane.

We haven't seen each other since last year around this time so I'm really looking forward to this happy reunion. Hopefully we'll sit around Cafe Absinthe in Shinsaibashi and soak in the sweet Osaka accented Mediterranean vibes and catch up on old times. Then it's back to Tokyo for some more Hoop action in Yoyogi koen with Tokyo's Premiere Super Hooper Sushizume!

See you there!

BFFs

2008-04-10T13:08:00.006+09:00

I could lie and say that I haven't had anything to write about these past ten days (even though they've been action packed). I could say that I've been far too busy to even think about blogging (although I think about it everyday). I could say that there was some unyielding emergency that kept me from my online persona but it all just rings empty and false.
I was simply unglamorously unmotivated.
Which is to say I didn't feel like.
I didn't give a good hmm hmm.
And Leilachan from January 2008 would have felt very guilty about 10 days of blog silence. She would have felt irresponsible and a touch neglectful but that feeling hits us all doesn't it?
The "I don't give a...about that," feeling.
The "You can all just...hmm" syndrome, the "yadda yadda yadda...who cares" attitude.
So this Leilachan of April '08 just pretends to forgive herself as she goes on one more self-justifying diatribe about how nothing matters and nobody gives a rats...HELLO, about anything and she goes to work and sits at her desk in her little cubicle and mindlessly goes about her utterly mindless job when she gets a text message from her best friend out of the clear blue that reads,

"When u think about it we really r soul sisters. Just check out how similar our paths r and how our parallel has only strengthened over time. I love u."

And I KNOW she does. In that moment I literally feel her presence at work, just thinking about her and she's absolutely right!
We ARE soul sisters because who else could have known what to do, what to say to me in that precise moment??

And it was just what the doctor ordered because a cloud literally lifted and I finished my shift as genki as ever and on the commute home, visions of my fabulous friends swam round my head and I was reminded by each memory of how charmed my life truly is.
Perhaps I needed a blogger break and didn't know it,
but it wasn't because nobody cares.

Thanks Deanne.

What You Missed

2008-04-01T00:34:00.006+09:00

The #1 Nun was in rare form for March's Sketchy Madness. There are more pics here.
See you at Dr. Sketchy's April session.

Tokyo Comedy Store TONIGHT

2008-03-28T02:02:00.004+09:00

I'm always so busy promoting Dr. Sketchy's that I forgot to plug my true theatrical love, comedy improv. I perform improv at the Tokyo Comedy Store every 4th Friday of the month. Tonight promises to be a fantastic time so check us out down at The Crocodile in Shibuya.

Dr. Sketchy's Wednesday Night

2008-03-25T23:09:00.005+09:00

Dr. Sketchy's Tokyo is always held on the 4th Wednesday of every month at The Pink Cow in Shibuya.

Doors Open at 6pm
Dr. Sketchy starts at 7pm

Sketchy date: WEDNESDAY 3/26

Sketchy theme: Feline Fetish Fever

Sketchy Model: #1 Nun

¥1500

No drawing experience necessary,
just a sense of fun, sketch pad and pencil.

Bring 'dry' materials and get ready to get sketchy!

Oh, yeah! (no water/oil paints - sorry)

PS. Come early for the best seats!

SEE YOU THERE!!!!!

Hoop Fame

2008-03-20T11:59:00.004+09:00

What greater confidence booster is there than a shout out from Hooping.org the online world authority on all things Hoopy!
I was pleasantly surprised to see the honorable mention on their site yesterday.
Thanks Hooping.org

Simply Being

2008-03-18T18:50:00.005+09:00

Have you ever spent the day thinking of someone else entirely? My closest Aunt has a birthday coming soon and I've decided to make her present this year (actually I make her present every year). Don't wanna give too much away as she may read this entry but The whole day was dedicated to looking up inspirational quotes that might strike a chord with her as I thumbed through old photos of us. I spent hour upon hour inside the published minds of Emerson, Thoreau and Eleanor Roosevelt just to name a few. It's amazing how these old quotes that I've heard a dozen times before suddenly resonate when you truly read them unhindered by time constraints and with full presence of consciousness. Suddenly every word was like a declaration or an epiphany. "Ah ha" moments were like rapturous awakenings. Very nice feeling indeed. Such an eye opening experience the act of being aware! Today was one of those rare occasions when I actually had the entire day off. It was a day to sit around in my underwear and scratch my bottom and contemplate how to make someone I truly love feel amazing about themselves and though I didn't lift a finger I can't remember when I felt so fulfilled or productive.

Hope she likes it!

Zen Hooping

2008-03-16T00:02:00.004+09:00

Have you ever been absolutely sure of something only to find out that you don't know jack?
I read The Secret a couple of months ago and the change in life has been significant.
Better job.
Better life.
More laughs.
Then I met a guy in Kyoto who said I wasn't very in touch with the HERE and NOW.
Of course I politely listen to him while simultaneously thinking he could stick his new age mumbo jumbo where the sun don't...mm hmm
Then I began to Hoop in earnest. Exploring my new hobby with all the enthusiasm of a gaggle of Kindergartens at recess.

As with any new endeavor I always want to be good immediately and this need for instant success leaves me fumbling a lot longer than if I just appreciated the journey for what it is and accept that I'm gonna suck for a while.
Today as I hooped in Shinjuku Gyoen, I dropped the hoop more times than I can count as I tried to perfect moves that the Super Hooper in my daydreams expertly choreographed but my hooping fairy godmother Sushizume showed me how to truly move with the hoop. Be the hoop. Love the hoop.
And it wasn't until I let go of the Alvin Ailey daydream that I was able to sway and swish that baby around my waist and arms like a pro and really get into the groove. It was a day of orgiastic hoop lovin' I tell ya!
Love.
Hoop.
Rhythm.
HERE.
NOW.
aaaaaaaah...I get it!

Fucking Osho

2008-03-12T00:36:00.002+09:00

If you can get past the slow speech pattern and expressionless face you'll find the most genuine comedic performance by Osho, the very definition of an enlightened mystic.

Ibaragi Serenity

2008-03-02T22:35:00.003+09:00

From blizzard to bliss.

Spring is in the air friends.

And today she kissed me on the cheek.

Ah sweet serenity!

Appropriate Attire 101

2008-02-25T00:16:00.008+09:00

When you find yourself in the middle of weather like this,

It's best not to wear something like these,

And while a feast like this

definitely lifts the spirits,
it does not cure frost bite.

Just a few survival tips from the Hokkaido blizzard of 2008.

Excuse me while I thaw.

Nagasaki Lights

2008-02-11T17:37:00.000+09:00

Call it fate.
Call it luck.
Call it absolutely enchanting.
I stumbled upon this annual festival of lanterns in Nagasaki's Chinatown. As Chinese New Year's revelers descended upon this quaint historic town I followed suit and took the keitai tour of this...

...the oldest and largest Chinatown in all of Japan which puts Yokohama to shame but I must admit that all I really wanted to do amongst all these meticulously hinged and unabashedly romantic lights was grab an LED Hoop and hoop it up under the moonlight and lanterns.

soon friends
soon.

10 minutes in Okinawa

2008-02-09T22:34:00.000+09:00

So technically I was there for 17 hours but given that this was a business trip it truly felt like 10 minutes.
What can you see in such a short time???
I found a flautist turned chimney sweeper and ¥40,000 venomous snakes soaked in sake. Apparently it's an island delicacy.
I will never know why for reasons that can probably be found on the CDC FAQ page about the hazards of consuming venomous snakes in sake jars.

First Class

2008-02-03T09:16:00.000+09:00

Riding on trains just never gets old. After a particularly mediocre day in Fukuoka I was just one half hour train ride away from a bed at the Toyoku Inn. And then the universe sent me a gift a luxurious ride on a super deluxe Semi-Express Shinkansen in Fukuoka called the Kamome which means Seagull in Japanese. This train comes fully equipped with executive style spacious leather seats, hard woodfloors and several train hostesses catering to your every whim. It truly felt like gliding on air.

Feeling Fizzy

2008-01-31T12:05:00.000+09:00

hehehehe

Cafe Layla?!

2008-01-27T03:58:00.000+09:00

There's a Cafe Layla in Tokyo?????
WHAT!!
Where??
Kichijoji that's where!
And it's tiiiiiiiiiiiny!
Just like me!

I was destined to go there and thanks to gal pals Sushizume and Akiko I did!
Always on the look out for a cute trendy new bistro to sink our teeth into we found Cafe Layla, world's smallest hookah joint!

Come early for the delicious middle eastern food cause you'll have to move out of the way for the Bellydancer but be of good cheer because the after dinner hookah makes all the reshuffling well worth it!

Sketchy-tine's Day

2008-01-27T03:31:00.000+09:00

If you weren't able to make it down to The Pink Cow last Wednesday night here is a bit of what you missed. The lovely Rebeka Heart was the sizzling lady in scarlet and dazzled everyone with her cheeky singing and flexibility. Vavavoooom!

Dr. Sketchy Tokyo is BAAAAAACK!

2008-01-21T17:53:00.000+09:00

It's SKETCHY TIME!
Dr. Sketchy Tokyo is back and better than ever with a brand new website!

Be at The Pink Cow this Wednesday January 23rd at 7pm for our first show of the year!
With us on Sketchy-tine's day will be the illustrious Rebeka Heart!
Come watch our resident artist Rosgo P Wildebeast flex his drawing muscles as Ms. Heart wows us with her Rock-a-billy fashions!
As always our Sketchtastic sponsor TokyoMade has cool contests with fun prizes to be won so come on out this Wednesday and bring your sketch pad and dry materials and let's get Sketchy!

(no water/oil paints - sorry)

Doors open at 6pm
(come early for some "Cowlicious eats" and the best seats)
Sketchy time: 7pm
¥1500 gets you a Sketchy good time!

See you there!

Featured sketch by: Rosgo P Wildebeast

MIKA

2008-01-18T01:18:00.000+09:00

This man has written the soundtrack of my entire life!
My poor ipod nearly had a meltdown as I have played the album on repeat for about the last FOUR DAYS! Can't stop. Just Can't stop. I've decided to skip over to Thailand where I can finally get my sex change operation since everyone knows that I'm just a gay man trapped in a straight woman's body! Yes that's what I'll do! I'll have the operation so that I can stalk him then bonk him over the head and drag him to Canada and force him to marry me!
I LOVE LOVE LOVE MIKA!

He's my new Prince! And I don't mean in the "charming" kind of way! I mean is "the artist formally known as..." kind of way! When is he coming to Tokyo?
Let's start a campaign RIGHT NOW.
Excuse me while I go draw up the petitons.

Move

2008-01-14T07:46:00.000+09:00

With G-ma gone a sweet solitude has descended upon the house and I am left with my thoughts and dreams and aspirations swimming about my head like schools of aimless wondering fish and my body feels heavy from all the glorious gluttony of this past season and I am reminded that my body is not just a storage vessel for holiday excess.

I actually need to get off my ass and move. There was a time as a child when I would play to the point of utter exhaustion and then I would sleep and dream of the moment when I could do it again tomorrow and tomorrow and tomorrow. I've decided to revisit that kind of decadent exhaustion. Movement for the sake of movement, experiencing the joys of life through the fluidity of a rockin good time.
Now is the time to move!

Happy Birthday Deanne

2008-01-07T01:02:00.000+09:00

So glad we could celebrate your birthday

with a bit of futuristic style.

Thanks to Sydney Pink's spacey Vostok 40 art opening and the Future tech Opera stylings of one Akiko Otao a good time was had by all.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SUSHIZUME!

あけましておめでとうごさいます！

2008-01-01T20:46:00.000+09:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

And what a wonderful year it's turning into. G-ma and Auntie are still here making the season ever more frenzied and spirited. It is the year of the rat which ordinarily would have me squirming but I'm told that a rat year is a time of hard work, activity, and renewal. And it is a good year to begin a new job, get married (not that I'm in a rush), launch a product or make a fresh start. So with happy thoughts of the rat swirling in our heads it was off to Meiji Jingu which left us feeling duly reverent and renewed as we sent our hopes and wishes for the new year into the universe to be received with good tidings.

Happy 2008!

And so this was Christmas...

2007-12-26T18:18:00.000+09:00

phew.

Last trip of the year

2007-12-20T14:39:00.000+09:00

There is no better way to end 2007 than with a trip to Miyazaki in Kyushu relaxing in the foot onsen by the station and reflecting on all the treats the Universe has in store for 2008.

So with a gentle rub to buddha's belly I asked for happy memories this holiday season to get me through 2008.

And the universe is as the universe does, for here is my first surreptitious holiday memory of the season of my G-ma sending good will to all who have touched her. Watching her write just reminds of why she always was/is/will be my happy thought. What's yours?

Happy Holidays,
Leila