7 reasons to take a burlesque class this summer
Reason 1: It’s actually a lot of fun!
Even if you have no interest or intention of performing, there are plenty of classes design for fun, fitness or to grow your confidence (or a combination of the three). You get to meet so many like minded people. Because you know that you all have at least one interest in common.
It’s a great way if you have moved recently - or just need to expand your circle of friends and connections. Any class I’ve taught or been to has had such a great vibe, so there is a real social scene involved.
And if you are new, remember that there are many types of burlesque performers and classes - you just need to find something that is going to be the best fit for you.
Reason 2: - Get inspired!
Any kind of dance class or art based class can be a great way to gather inspiration for a new act or for revamping an existing act. Sometimes just getting out of your existing rut, listening to some new music and being around creative people can be just what you need to get your inspiration flowing.
Of course you can do this by taking any kind of artistic class; attending a festival or event, or browsing art galleries and museums. But sometimes getting out and moving around;bumping and grinding or stretching can help reset your creative juices.
Reason 3 - Bump up your confidence!
Spoiler alert: I don't think that burlesque can solve all your body confidence or body image issues. And I also think that every class and every instructor is really different.
But if this is something you want to change in yourself, trying burlesque isn’t a bad idea. Often a teacher will really help you challenge how and why we consider what is 'sexy': to break down the bombardment of pretty horrid messages that we get every day about how you 'should' look, act and feel.
Not every class will help you construct a more positive version of yourself or to try and change your self perception. But I know of very few instructors in the burlesque industry that don't encourage you to challenge your expectations and to build some internal kindness.
Reason 4 - Up your stage game!
If you have decided to make the leap from fan to stage, a burlesque class can help you refine your burlesque stage persona. You don't necessarily need to take a burlesque class to get started on stage. But it can really help you solidify the style of burlesque you might like to perform; how to carry yourself onstage; and how you can help establish a strong stage presence. You can try this without aid of any instruction. But often it’s helpful to take some extra training or workshops to prep yourself or get an outside perspective.
Reason 5 - Build your networks
If you are an established or an emerging performer, burlesque classes present a great networking opportunity. Be they are regular ongoing class, or a one off workshop with an amazing artist, you are always going to meeting some fabulous and interesting people. Signing up to workshop with a performer you admire gives you the opportunity to meet and learn from them. You can also often meet other performers - whether they are starting out or already well on their journey.
Reason 6 - Hone and refine your skills
I'm a big fan of taking different 'beginner' friendly burlesque classes. I have done many different workshops. Even if every class teaches only a bump, a grind, a shimmy and a walk, I've always found that each instructor teaches these 'core' movements very differently. They might have a different take on a basic movement. Or they might explain the movements differently. Everyone learns differently, and a different presentation or style of class can completely make the difference between mastering a movement or not.
If you are performing or learning, you can really hone some of your skills. Some of the best performances I've seen on stage can be deceptively simple. Being able to really sell that grind or do a sharp bump, can completely change the direction of a routine or take something from 'ho hum' to 'woah'! Don't underestimate the value in consistent learning.
Reason 7 - Get yourself some honest feedback
Burlesque classes don't have to be weekly, ongoing classes or group workshops. A class can be a one-on-one experience. If you are lacking inspiration or feel like you have a routine that is a bit lacklustre, a workshop with another performer can help you get an honest appraisal of your routine or work to date. I've not met anyone that would sit through a workshop and dis or embarrass another artist- no matter what their level of expertise. They are invested in you and want to see you succeed. Don't be afraid to get a second opinion if you are stuck.
These are my thoughts. But what about you ? What are some of the benefits you have gotten from a burlesque class? And if you are a performer, what makes you go back to take a class?