Black Ivy by Cindy Johnson
ABOUT

Indy's Bendy Babe

Black Ivy started her burlesque journey in May of 2021 with local Indianapolis troupe, Angel  Burlesque, but her love of the stage started at the ripe old age of 5. Ivy began as a tiny tot in ballet, tap and jazz at her local YWCA and over the years grew into other styles such as hip-hop, contemporary, African, and step.

In 2013 Ivy wandered her way into her first pole class and it was love at first spin. Formerly known as Akasha, you may have seen her performing locally in productions such as Fetish Friday or Hell on heels, or in the Black Girls Pole showcase at International Pole Convention. Falling in love with dance as her main form of fitness, and the only workout she has ever stuck with, she was thrilled when an adult only dance studio opened up downtown. She began taking heels, hip-hop, jazz, and contemporary classes every chance she could while documenting her return to dance as an adult on her social media. It was through these videos that she was able to connect with Angel Burlesque and the rest is a whirlwind of rhinestones and glitter. 

Since her debut in 2021, she has become a frequent performer at popular Indianapolis venues such as the White Rabbit Cabaret and Almost Famous, as well as having been a featured performer with CinCity Burlesque. 

Ready to take any stage by storm with grace and a whole lot of face, Black Ivy is your bendy babe

ON STAGE

On stage Black Ivy delivers the perfect mix of choreography and sensual tease to entice any audience. Known for her smooth, sultry floor work, splits for days and acrobatic chair moves, she is sure to blow your mind and leave you wondering “How did she do that?!” Performing to some of today’s hottest hits as well as classic crowd favorites ranging from Beyoncé to Nine Inch Nails, you never know what this bendy babe is going to do next, but you sure won’t want to miss it.

By Lisa Wilson

OFF STAGE

Off stage, Ivy is moving and shaking just as much as she is on stage trying to balance a full- time job, a burlesque career and all of her other hobbies. In addition to performing and her dance classes, you can find Ivy on her motorcycle, tending to the jungle of plants that is her home, playing her piano or dabbling in guitar, traveling with her boyfriend every chance she can, and we can’t forget sleeping!
By Leif Ostara