Introduction to Burlesque

Register at https://bpt.me/4546832

NOTE: Because of the pandemic our studio is closed. Classes are taught on-line via Zoom. If you purchase a full-price class, you may take it again in-person once we reopen. We are also offering virtual classes only at a reduced price.

No previous experience is necessary. This series of classes was designed and created with the novice dancer in mind, but experienced dancers looking to learn classic burlesque moves and techniques will also greatly benefit.

Through a series of lessons and demonstrations which build upon one another, students will learn the fundamentals of burlesque dance. At the end of the course, you will have the building blocks to create your own fun and flirty dance routine. Over the four weeks we’ll discuss burlesque-related topics like music selection, the art of costuming, and performing for an audience. Burlesque is a terrific form of expression for any woman. It builds confidence, comfort with your own body and it’s great exercise too!

This is a four-session course. All classes are from 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

This series of Introduction to Burlesque classes is open to all genders.

Cost: $25 per class (virtual plus studio) or $15 per class (virtual only)

Course Commitment: To register for the full course for $99, please select “Tuesday, May 5” as the date you wish to register for, and then select the “All 4 classes” ticket. If you register before April 28, you’re eligible for the “Early Bird” discount of $85.

For virtual classes only: To register for the full course for $60, please select “Tuesday, May 5” as the date you wish to register for, and then select the “All 4 classes” ticket. If you register before April 28, you’re eligible for the “Early Bird” discount of $50.

Sessions:

Session #1 (Tuesday, May 5): Week One starts things off right with some Burlesque Basics. You’ll learn that classic burlesque move, The Bump, plus how to turn your everyday steps into struts and slinky walks.

For the striptease lesson, you’ll be learning how to remove Gloves. Long ones are best, but any gloves will work!

Session #2 (Tuesday, May 12): This week’s move is The Grind, those oh-so teasing and pleasing types of hip circles that are essential to classic burlesque. Combine it with Week One’s lesson, you get the classic “bump ‘n’ grind”.

Week Two’s striptease lessons are on Skirts and Shirts. Please bring a skirt with a zipper and a blouse with buttons. Since you’ll be removing your clothes, you may want to wear shorts or leggings and a tank top underneath or fancy lingerie, depending on your comfort level.

Session #3 (Tuesday, May 19): This week’s move is The Shimmy, how to quiver and shake to the delight of your audience. We’ll continue to build up our movement vocabulary that now includes both bumps and grinds.

Week Three’s striptease lesson is all about Stockings. Please have a pair of thigh-high stockings or tall socks. After you learn some Floorwork to highlight your lovely gams, we’ll practice the provocative stocking remove.

Session #4 (Tuesday, May 26: This week’s move is Tassel Twirling — the ultimate burlesque trick! You will need pasties with tassels for this. If you’re uncomfortable appearing in just pasties, please wear a close-fitting tank-top under your bra and affix the pasties to that. It’s harder to twirl, but we don’t want anyone struggling beyond their comfort level.

Week Four’s striptease lesson is Removing a Bra. Please bring a back-fastening bra to class. See the above note about pasties and comfort levels. That applies here too.

For extra fun, we’ll be playing with Feather Boas, that quintessential burlesque accessory. If you don’t have a boa, you can use a long scarf.

Please Note: If you cannot attend the course or a session of the course for which you have registered, you may not transfer or cancel your registration.