I didn’t know exactly what to expect when I showed up at Tabu Sports Bar and Lounge for my photoshoot with Alicia Crosby — whom I’d come to know as the inimitable “Queen Conch” as she wowed audiences to Philadelphia’s Burlesque Battle Royale.

The only plan we had going in: “Let’s get weird.” Works for me.

Alicia, a musician, theater performer and all-around creative soul, is new to the world of burlesque. PBBR introduced newbies like her to the scene in a constructively competitive and supportive environment. Whether she was dazzling us with the tragic plight of the spotted lanternfly or changing how we look at Furbies, Alicia came to play.

It’s that ingenuity that won her a free photoshoot with me during Teams Week at PBBR, as well as one of the two top prizes of the eight-week run. You’ll be seeing a lot more of Ms. Conch on Philly stages soon.

(Speaking of seeing a lot more of Alicia — some of the photos below are censored, as the originals aren’t safe for all environments. Proceed with caution, glee or both.)