Shirley Klotz, of Salisbury, appreciates opportunities and capitalizes on second chances.

Originally from Schuylkill Haven, Klotz moved to the Allentown area circa 1968. For approximately 50 years, she has worked as a hairstylist and beautician. For much of that time she ran a salon in Allentown; eight years ago she moved her business to the 15th Street Salon in Emmaus.

Through a client, Klotz learned of Penny Starr, an exotic dancer who although now in her 80s periodically struts her stuff. Exotic dancers retain the equivalent of a two piece bathing suit and keep the feminine mystery intact. Intrigued, Klotz attended Starr's performance at Boolesque, Jim Thorpe Burlesque's salute to Halloween.

This initial encounter sparked a strong connection. Klotz volunteered to design Starr's wigs and makeup for her next performance. A trial run in Starr's home left Starr's husband enthralled, Starr delighted and Klotz with a unique chance to ply her craft.

Klotz sums up the women's first collaboration by saying, "It was great. It was really great!"

The two soon developed a friendship based on shared artistry and personal fondness.

When Starr, Miss Bump and Grind for 1963, was honored as a legend and inducted into the Burlesque Hall of Fame in Las Vegas, Klotz went along as her wig stylist and makeup artist. In addition, through her collaboration with Starr, Klotz has expanded her creative talents.

Klotz designed Starr's most recent Boolesque costume, an orange and black multi-layered masterpiece. She has also chosen music for Starr: Robin Thicke's "Blurred Lines" and "You Can Leave Your Hat On" by Joe Cocker. Klotz, a natural innovator, provides her professional services to Starr gratis.

On a personal level, Klotz assisted Starr in her move to Florida. Together they organized a garage sale in which Starr's extensive shoe collection figured prominently.

The friends talk by phone two or three times a week and Klotz plans to reconnect with Starr in Las Vegas in June 2015. Although officially retired, Starr periodically gives a special performance. Klotz beams as she explains Starr travels yearly to Las Vegas to dance with her granddaughter. They are the only Nana and granddaughter burlesque act in the country.

Klotz's attachment to Starr is based, in part, on Starr's physical and personality resemblances to Klotz's mother. Klotz explains meeting Starr "...felt like a second chance" to experience a close mother/daughter relationship.

Klotz recognizes possibilities and seizes the moment. When discussing Starr, she laughs and states, "If I were just a few years younger..."

If youth is a state of mind, Shirley Klotz and Penny Starr may share the stage yet.