In the first of an on-going series, Metromix will turn the spotlight on the city's busiest, bustiest (ha) and most popular burlesque performers. This time out, we focus on Anita Cookie, the star of the monthly "Anita's Underground" at Under St. Marks (the second Thursday of every month at 10:30 p.m.). "It's like 'The Price is Right' with boobs and booze!" Cookie promises. Well, OK, then! Meet Anita, who has—in her words—"the innocence of a lush and a fondness for baked goods." Check out Anita's other appearances at the end of the interview!

Hi, Anita. How exactly did you adopt the name Anita Cookie?
I was born with it!

Outside of you, who has the best burleseque name in the business?
My all-time favorite is still, and shall always be, Nasty Canasta. It just rolls off the tongue. Much like her.

What's your signature move on stage?
I drink, so... um... let's call it "The Stumble."

What's the best way to pick up a burlesque performer?
NOT by her hair.

What is "Anita's Underground"?
The Underground is a monthly, live game show where every audience member has the chance to be a contestant and win a bunch of great prizes. There's a live band, a different "Drinking Buddy" very month, and baked goods. Yummy!

What can you win?
I give away homemade brownies, booze, carriage rides in Central Park, pasties, knitted hats by Nasty Canasta, and so much more!

What's a "Celebrity Drinking Buddy"?
The Drinking Buddy is a different recognizable local personality. The idea is that they will show a hidden talent totally unknown to recent audiences. This month's Buddy is Jonny Porkpie. He's the Burlesque Mayor of Brooklyn. But you'll have to come to the show to see what his super secret talent is....

Who's your favorite game show host, and why?
I'd have to say Bob Barker, because he's awesome. I love him!  But Drew Carey is doing a great job, too.

Why do you think burlesque has taken off so much in the last few years?
Because it's awesome.

Please tell us where we can see you in the next few weeks.
At Anita's Underground every month, and numerous Wasabassco shows [Jan. 11 at The Living Room Lounge, Jan. 16 at Sputnik]. I also play Drunko in Pinchbottom Burlesque's "The Bawdy House," their Marx Brothers tribute [Jan. 18 and 19 at Collective: Unconscious], and my monthly late night talk show "The Night Cap" with co-host Roja Rouge and cohort Scott Rayow [new location TBD].