Tributes for ‘star’ Melbourne burlesque performer killed in arson attack
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Police believe 27-year-old Katie Tangey’s death was a case of mistaken identity as friends rally to raise funds for her family. A popular performer, killed by fire in what police say is a case of mistaken identity, has been remembered as “an icon” as friends rally to raise funds for her heartbroken family.
Katie Tangey, 27, died after becoming trapped while house-sitting her brother’s three-storey townhouse in Truganina, Melbourne’s west, on Thursday morning. The Hoppers Crossing woman, who was on Friday identified as a popular burlesque performer, called emergency services for help but did not survive the blaze.
Sign up for Guardian Australia’s breaking news email. The burlesque community has remembered Tangey, who performed under the name Vivien May-Royale, in tributes on social media. “Our hearts are breaking and a very big hole will be felt in our industry,” The Apprentease Victoria wrote on Facebook.
“Vale Vivien May-Royale, our hearts go out to your family and we will continue to celebrate you and your sparkly life.”. Friend Chanie Hyde has banded together with other members of Melbourne’s burlesque scene to raise funds for Tangey’s family after her life was “tragically cut short”.
“Proceeds will go directly to Katie’s mother, Tracey, to support her living expenses and funeral costs during this insurmountable time of grief,” Hyde wrote on a GoFundMe page. “Katie/Viv … we love you so much. You were a force, an icon, a star and a wonderful friend.”.
