Setting the Stage: From Paperwork to Premiere at Faith’s Place

Faith Bacon. The “Most Beautiful Woman in the World”, who claimed to have invented the fan dance as she captivated audiences from Paris to Broadway. She was the height of glamour, a Ziegfeld girl who seemed untouchable behind her ostrich feathers.

But there’s another side of Faith’s story. The fading spotlight, the financial instability, and the isolation. In 1956, alone and out of options in a Chicago hotel room, Faith Bacon’s story ended in tragedy—a heartbreaking reminder that the glitter we wear on stage often hides the struggles we face in the dressing room.

We believe that if Faith had a place to turn to—a community that offered safety, resources, and mental health support—her story might have had a different ending.

That is why we are founding Faith’s Place.

We are stripping away the stigma to ensure that no performer in our community has to fight alone. Whether you are a headliner, a kitten, or a producer, you deserve a safety net when the curtain drops.

What’s Happening Behind the Scenes?

Just like a big production, building a non-profit takes rehearsals, set-building, and a dedicated crew. We have been working hard to turn this vision into a reality. Here is a look at where we are in the process:

1. Assembling Our Cast (The Board of Directors)
We are currently in the process of building a Board of Directors that represents the diverse voice of the burlesque community. We are talking with individuals who are not only passionate about the arts but are fierce advocates for mental wellness. This isn’t just a letterhead; it’s a working creative team dedicated to governance, fundraising, and outreach.

2. Making it Official (501(c)(3) Status)
We are deep in the paperwork! Applying for tax-exempt status is a hurdle, but it is the most important step to ensure Faith’s Place can accept tax-deductible donations and apply for the grants that will fund our counseling services and emergency resources. We are dotting our i’s and crossing our t’s to ensure this organization is built on a solid, legal foundation that will last for years to come.

3. Preparing for the Grand Reveal
We are organizing our initial programming and partnerships with mental health professionals who understand the unique pressures of the gig economy and this unique corner of the performing arts.

The Reveal is Coming

We are almost ready to step into the spotlight. In the coming weeks and months, look out for announcements regarding our official launch date, opportunities to volunteer, and ways you can donate to help us get off the ground.

Faith Bacon gave the world beauty, mystery, and art. It is time we give the community she helped build the one thing she needed most: Support.

Stay tuned. We’re just getting warmed up.

— The Faith’s Place Team

“Bumps, Grinds and Peace of Mind”