Matti re-performs Cheryl Donegan

"Why the hell couldn't you have thought of a more wholesome video to re-perform," my future, trying to get a real job self asks AVB Matti. "Sorry, future Matti, this video was downright double-dog-daring me and you know how that goes. Maybe you should run for office. A little perviness never stopped anyone there."

After the Bees decided to make a series of re-performances, Cheryl Donegan's video "Head" (1993) was the first video performance that rushed to mind. My good judgement swayed me away for a week, dismissing the idea as nothing more than a good laugh, but when crunch time came and I had to make a decision I could only think back to the first time I saw Donegan pulsing, spitting and sloshing about to loud pop-punk music. It was fresh and accessible, but also raw and violent. Please pass the cookies, time to buy some gallons of milk.

As a new performer, my main challenge was not just to learn the pacing and choreography of her milky mess, but rather try to find that slippery spot Donegan found between slap-stick comedy and over the top, raunchy sexiness and then, ultimately, make it my own.

Matti Sloman RE-PERFORMS Cheryl Donegan from Austin Video Bee on Vimeo.

After three takes, the first two consisting of unattractive faces, giggles and exclamations such as "fucking hell, this is way harder than the real deal," I came to realize how her minimal setup and costume (a chunky sports bra) helped keep the video from tipping into a boring smut short. I am thrilled that this is the first video I've EVER made. I can't wait to perform more. Maybe next time I'll wear a shirt.

<3 Matti