A special performance by Isabella Bliss and a Talk about new book 'Encounters with Marilyn Monroe'.

Join us at Books on the Rise for an evening to celebrate the centenary of Marilyn Monroe.

A special performance by Isabella Bliss as Marilyn herself followed by a talk by contributors to the new book:

Encounters with Marilyn Monroe:

A hundred years after her birth, Marilyn Monroe remains an obsession. To celebrate the centenary, this vibrant collection of essays, interviews, personal reflections, poems, photographs, and Monroe’s own words explores why her influence still endures. With an illuminating introduction by Lucy Bolton and contributions from over twenty voices, the book captures the many aspects of Marilyn Monroe: star, symbol, icon, and radiant cultural force.

About Isabella Bliss:

Part old Hollywood siren, part modern showgirl, Isabella Bliss is an internationally acclaimed performer, producer, host and creative voice often referred to as “The Marilyn Monroe of Burlesque.”

With over two decades of experience in cabaret, burlesque and live entertainment, Isabella has built a reputation for creating cinematic performances inspired by the glamour, spectacle and artistry of old Hollywood.

A longtime headliner of Europe’s largest touring burlesque production, An Evening of Burlesque, Isabella spent more than a decade captivating audiences across theatres, luxury venues and international stages with her signature blend of sensuality, comedy and theatrical spectacle. In later years, her role expanded beyond performance into co-management, creative direction and show development behind the scenes, helping shape productions both artistically and operationally.

Known for her visually spectacular signature acts including crystal-encrusted martini glasses, giant glittering stilettos and a restored vintage carousel horse adorned in crystals.Isabella creates immersive worlds inspired by glamour, fantasy and classic showmanship.

Praise for Isabella Bliss as Marilyn Monroe

More than a tribute act, Isabella’s portrayal of Marilyn Monroe is a heartfelt celebration of classic Hollywood, live entertainment and one of cinema’s most iconic women.

Praised as “uncanny,” “mesmerising” and “utterly hilarious,” Isabella combines live singing, comedy, storytelling and audience interaction to create experiences that feel both authentic and alive. From London’s West End and luxury cruise ships to international events and performances for Arabian royalty, she has captivated audiences around the world with her warmth, quick wit and timeless sparkle.

The talk will feature performer Isabella Bliss, actor Genevive Gaunt, and editor Cheryl Robson

Genevieve is an actor and interviewer. She read English at Cambridge where she graduated with a Double First. She started her career playing Pansy Parkinson in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban and has gone on to work as an actor across television, film and stage, most recently playing Marilyn Monroe in The Marilyn Conspiracy (Park Theatre). Alongside acting, Genevieve reviews books for The Spectator magazine, writes for audiodrama and interviews authors and creatives for literary festivals and in print for A Rabbit’s Foot. Her podcast ‘The Cupid Couch’ made the Radio Times ‘Best 34 podcasts of 2021’ and in 2022 she co-curated The Braemar Literary Festival with Hauser & Wirth and the Queen’s ‘Reading Room’.

Whether appearing in theatres, hosting elegant events or emerging from a giant cake to sing “Happy Birthday,” Isabella creates unforgettable moments filled with laughter, nostalgia and a touch of movie-star magic.

Description supplied by the event organiser.