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by Denise Bella Vlasis (Author)
In the summer of 1984, in a decade of pop-culture and MTV, a young girl with dreams of performing on stage would stumble upon an opportunity that would change her life forever. With an invitation to visit children in hospitals, Denise discovered a doorway that allowed her to step into the shadow of the world's most famous star. During her hospital visits to children, Denise's unique journey as Madonna's double would begin to unfold. Agents would begin to notice Denise, and work offers started flooding in.
By bringing Madonna to life through a performance, something magical began to happen for Denise and the people around her. Being Madonna brought hope, determination and a belief in herself that only Madonna could teach. Denise has captivated audiences with her uncanny likeness and electric performances from the early days of lace gloves and boy toy belts to the edgy reinventions of Madonna's later years. An undeniable career spanning over four decades from the stages of Las Vegas to the countryside of Japan. Denise's career has taken her on unforeseen paths of working in film, television, voice-over, decoy, stand-in jobs and on stage.
Denise shares her personal story in this heartfelt memoir that delves into her incredible journey of how a shy girl from a small town became one of the most sought-after Tribute performers globally. With intriguing backstage stories and experiences of living in the shadows of the world's most renowned star, to insightful reflections on the sacrifices and achievements associated with a life parallel to that of her idol. And finally meeting her idol face to face, working both with and for Madonna herself.
In Dear Madonna, Denise reveals the highs and lows of following her heart while living her dreams, navigating identity, and finding meaning beyond fame. And connecting to the Madonna fans worldwide to continue the celebration of the world's biggest musical icon. Part Love Letter to Madonna, part celebration of life, and a peek at what it was like growing up in a generation of Madonna. A story of resilience, reinvention and stepping into the unknown-This is Denise's story, a diary of gratitude to the very woman who made it all possible for her.
