First and foremost…congratulations! Your performance was absolutely incredible, and the theme was very bold and unique! What led to your decision for the theme you chose? How many other themes had you considered?
I want to start by thanking everyone who supported me. I chose my theme, Asylum, because I knew it hadn't been done before. My inspiration stemmed from a Dance Moms episode, where one of the dancers wore a straight jacket in an acro routine. I had been wanting to do that particular theme for quite some time but was weary about actually following through with it. My theme was either going to be a big hit or a complete miss due to the controversialism. I had considered other themes such as Mardi Gras, ballet, or NASCAR, but none of them called to me artistically like Asylum did.
Describe your first experience competing in an Exotic event and how it shaped your preparations for Polerotica 2025.
My first time ever witnessing an Exotic event was around 3 years ago. I wasn't competing, but I was an extra in a friend's performance. I remember being in absolute awe of the skill level and raw talent I was seeing on the stage. I strived to be able to do what I was seeing and be able to compete with some of Portland's greatest. From then on, I worked on my flow, pole skills, and creativity. It definitely paid off in Polerotica 2025.
Thinking of the time during your actual performance, what do you remember thinking about or feeling while on stage?
During my stage set, I felt my mind leave and my body take over. I don't really choreograph any of my performances, so I just rely on my instincts and muscle memory. I remember hearing cheering and screams of terror when I did a nose dive. I also thought I was going to be docked for almost spilling the judges' pizza all over them. Overall, I felt liberated and like the crowd was experiencing the exact feelings I was trying to evoke.
Winning it all the first time you placed in one of our final events is really incredible—seriously! What advice would you give to other performers who are looking to win it all at an Exotic event?
I would say to compete in whichever competition suits you and will show who you are as a performer. Don't repeat what other people have done, and try to have a good support team. Crowd and judge interaction is key, and surprises during your performance will always spice things up. I would recommend to others to give it their all and, most importantly, have fun.
We always like to ask this next question! If you could travel back in time and talk to baby stripper Passion, what would you say, and what advice would you offer?
My advice to my baby dancer self would be not to compare myself to others. Everyone has their own look, style, and way they move. Own who you are, and don't let the fear of what others will think stop you from doing what you want to do. Progression will come naturally with hard work and time.
This is your first Exotic cover! We're excited, and we hope you are, too! Was being featured on the cover something you thought about in the past? Were you nervous before and during the photoshoot?
I am stoked about being the cover. It is something I was offered in the past, but due to life circumstances, I wasn't able to make it happen. I've done lots of modeling in my lifetime but was never on the cover of anything, so it is an amazing opportunity. I wasn't nervous during the photoshoot because I have done many with HYPNOX before, and it's never anything less than a blast.
What if our readers are interested in seeing you perform? Where can they catch you on shift? Drop your socials, too!
I can be found weekly at Guilty Pleasures and Sassy’s. I usually work the closing shift, but you can catch me at the occasional mid-shift. I post my schedule every week with the time and place where I'm working. It can be found on my Instagram, @passion.bruna, or you can find me on the Sassy's schedule posted on their website. You can also find my OnlyFans link in my Instagram bio ;).
Lastly, what consumes your time when you’re not slaying it on stage or striking a pose for the next cover of Exotic?
In my spare time, I am usually at school or performing my usual mom duties. I am studying to be a nurse at PCC and enjoy spending time in the sun or by the water. I love art and have designed many of my tattoos, so let me know if you want to contribute to the fund for new ones. Some of my other interests and hobbies include forensic science, cosmetology, and going to new restaurants.
