Inspirational burlesque dancer takes to the stage with troupe
A BURLESQUE dancer dying from a rare form of cancer has defied her condition to give an inspirational performance in front of a sell-out crowd.
As previously reported in the Echo, Lorrainne Castellano, 56, from Penarth, has been told she only has months to live but her love of burlesque has given her a new lease of life.
And on Friday, the mum of one took to the stage with the Burly Girls at the Cardiff Cabaret Club in a sci-fi themed performance in which she gave her absolute all.
Speaking after the performance, Lorrainne said: “The whole evening was a massive success. I could not have done it without the support of friends, family and the Burly Girls.
“It was completely sold out and we could not get anyone else in. I make every single part of the costume myself. Everything you see up there is hand stitched by me.”
The former beauty therapist was diagnosed with peritoneal cancer in 2013 after discovering something was wrong as a result of her burlesque hobby. When someone was lacing her into a corset, Lorrainne’s legs gave way because of the pain in her abdomen and she later had a biopsy which revealed it was cancer.
Despite her decision not to have any more chemotherapy, Lorrainne remains positive and is planning to keep on going for as long as possible.
She said: “I have been alright but I am aware of how the condition is changing.
“I am valuing every single moment I have and I am very fortunate that I am still able to do something I really enjoy.
“I suppose I could be stuck in bed and not able to move around but I have still got my mobility.”
During Friday’s show, Lorrainne performed routines inspired by Flash Gordon and Starship Trooper, as well as a chair dance and a military routine.
She makes costumes for herself and other dancers, which she will continue to do for as long as possible.
Lorrainne said: “We have such a strong following and a lot of new people this time as well with all the publicity but it’s a wonderful show by Cardiff Cabaret.
“We have the next show on my birthday which is May 12 so we’re always looking to the future. I have to have something to work towards and to latch on to.
“It inspires me to enjoy everything and it takes my mind away from it. If you don’t you are focusing on something terrible 24 hours a day. If your mind goes, you body will follow.
“There is so much negativity around cancer and you see pictures of people having chemotherapy and you do not look your best I can tell you. It is no surprise people are scared of cancer. Well I am full of it and I am still dancing!
“I feel fully blessed I am still able to do this and no matter how awful the news is and the fact I am carrying this with me, I am still living and I’m really happy I am going to be on stage.”
Lorrainne is supporting Marie Curie during the charity’s annual Great Daffodil Appeal. To donate £5, text DAFF to 70111. If you can volunteer your time to the charity, visit www.mariecurie.org.uk or call 0800 3047025