Sukki Singapora is not just a performer—she is a symbol of courage, resilience, and empowerment. As the first international burlesque artist from Singapore, she has defied societal norms and paved the way for women in restrictive cultures to embrace artistic freedom. Her journey, from a traditional upbringing to the global stage, exemplifies the power of self-expression and the courage to challenge conventions.
Early Life of Sukki Singapora: A Foundation of Strength and Tradition
Born Sukki Menon in Singapore to a Singaporean Indian father with roots in Kerala and an English mother, both doctors, Sukki’s upbringing was deeply rooted in Asian traditions. She spent her childhood between Cornwall and the Indian Singaporean community around Goodman Road. From an early age, she trained in classical ballet, a discipline that would later influence her unique performance style.
At 18, she became a British citizen and pursued higher education at the University of Nottingham, later working in the IT industry before making the bold transition to burlesque.
Pioneering Burlesque: Embracing Art Amidst Adversity
Sukki’s foray into burlesque began in 2011 when she auditioned for a cabaret theatre in Manchester. With each performance, she refined her craft, drawing inspiration from Bollywood, classic Hollywood glamour, and 1950s American-Chinese performer Barbara Yung. Her unique fusion of Eastern and Western aesthetics captivated audiences, setting her apart as a true innovator in the field.
Despite cultural opposition, Sukki remained steadfast in her pursuit. In 2015, after four years of relentless campaigning, she became the first woman to perform a full burlesque show in Singapore, breaking barriers and igniting conversations about artistic freedom.
Championing Women’s Rights: Burlesque as Activism
Sukki Singapora’s impact extends far beyond entertainment. Recognizing the need for a safe space for Asian women in burlesque, she founded The Singapore Burlesque Society in 2012. Her advocacy for freedom of expression has been recognized globally, earning her an Asian Women of Achievement Award and a prestigious invitation to Buckingham Palace, where she became the first burlesque artist honored by the Royal Household.
Her activism took center stage when she was nominated for the United Nations Women’s HeForShe Awards, reinforcing her commitment to gender equality. She has continuously used her platform to challenge stereotypes, proving that burlesque is not just performance art—it is a statement of empowerment.
A Global Icon: Recognition and Influence
Sukki Singapora’s bold and elaborate performances have earned her international acclaim. She has graced the pages of Esquire’s “Women We Love”, FHM India, and the cover of Burlesque Bible. In 2015, she was inducted into the Burlesque Hall of Fame for her pioneering contributions to the art form.
Sukki Singapora’s influence extends beyond the stage. As a Global Ambassador for The Sharan Project, she supports vulnerable women and promotes self-expression as a tool for empowerment. Her dedication to making a difference has attracted high-profile supporters, including Cherie Blair, Bill Gates, and Desmond Tutu.
From Burlesque to Hollywood: The Evolution of an Icon
In 2019, Sukki Singapora transitioned into mainstream media with Netflix’s Singapore Social, the first docu-series featuring an all-Asian cast. The series provided a global platform to showcase her journey, reinforcing her status as a multifaceted artist and activist.
Her rise to fame saw her featured on a billboard in Times Square, New York, a testament to her growing influence. She leveraged this attention to champion gender equality, traveling to Kerala, India, to inspire children to break free from societal constraints and pursue their passions.
Expanding Horizons: The Next Chapter
By 2021, Sukki’s influence had reached India, with Rolling Stone India hailing her as “an unstoppable young force,” while Vogue India praised her for creating “a safe and empowering space for South Asian women.”
In 2022, Sukki Singapora announced a shift from burlesque to film and television. The Burlesque Hall of Fame in Las Vegas honored her contributions with a dedicated exhibition, solidifying her legacy.
Also Read:Ravichandran: A Journey from Malaysia to Tamil Silver Screen