Stripping off the burden of expectations !

You wouldn’t wake up and run a 5km race. So don’t expect yourself to be able to dance every step right out of the gate.

I am part way through teaching a new series of burlesque courses, ranging from the traditional classic style through to some pinup and neo burlesque styles.

Every time I get underway and see a new and amazing group of students coming in the door, I am always reminded at how hard people can be on themselves.

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I have seen too many shows and events that never reference artist fees up front.

In this day and age, I thought we would have started getting better about this.

Maybe this observation is a damming reflection that straight men still hold too much sway in producing events, and holding power structures in our industry.

Or it might just be a lack of knowledge in a sector of the arts that is running everything from slick corporate partnerships, to festival touring productions to local, grassroots shows an activities.

In my time, I have definitely seem too many shows that just never seem to reference to fees up front. And quite frankly it sucks.

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Grace CherryComment
What to give a burlesque babe during the holiday season (updated!)

A few years ago, I did the generous public service activity of suggesting some great gift giving ideas for burlesque babes to help any loved ones during the holiday season (or this can be dropped into an inbox of course as a massive hint).

Things change, and although there are some items on my post from a few years ago that I think still cut it, I thought an update was in order.

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Grace CherryComment
Catch up with Peachey Vendetta as she prepares for a solo performance!

Peachy Vendetta is a playful provocateur, always ready to upend expectations with a wink and a smirk. As a physically challenged troublemaker, she shrugs off the rules, turning every performance into a cheeky mix of rebellion and raw flair. A proud queer femme fatale, Peachy isn’t here to inspire—she’s here to tease, tempt, and leave you wondering how she makes being unapologetically herself look so damn fun.

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My 'go-to' burlesque poses that are super easy!

I definitely get asked about posing the body, and how you can make a dazzling impression.

Firstly, it’s all about the attitude. It doesn’t matter what pose or stance you take - you have to ‘attack’ it with the same level of delusional confidence of a certain presidential candidate.

And of course your burlesque alter ego and style is going to dictate a lot about the way you want to present yourself.

However, I always have some ‘go to’ positions that I share that make me feel pretty confident and comfortable on stage.

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My favourite stretch for burlesque performer tight hips ! (aka seated pigeon pose)

Today, I want to share with you some tips on a great stretch for tight hips. I feel like every burlesque student that comes through the doors struggles with tightness in the hips!

And we all know that feeling of tightness and discomfort in our hips - and especially after a long day of sitting! Or if you are starting your burlesque journey and using some different muscles you can feel a bit tight.

Seated pigeon pose is one of my favourite poses to bring some relief to those tight muscles.

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Burlesque boas - where to buy and tutorials to make them!

Feather boas are a timeless accessory that can add a touch of glamour to any routine and are pretty iconic burlesque accessories. Choosing and using a boa is a veritable minefield! There are different types of feather boas available - from vegan to ostrich, there are plenty of options to choose from. And plenty of tutorials for making your own!

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What are my backstage rules at a burlesque show?

Backstage rules in the world of burlesque are an essential part of the performance. While burlesque classes are often fun, inclusive and vibrant, once you want to get on the stage you need to approach your work with a level of professionalism as you would in any other art form or business. Let’s go through some backstage housekeeping!

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