Age is just a number in burlesque!

One of the biggest questions I get as a burlesque teacher is:

Am I too old to start burlesque?

Or I will talk to people in the audience who will say things like:

I’d love to do that… but I’m too old these days

As a 40 year old performer and teacher I am here to say you are never too old to start burlesque!

I am not sure why there is a myth that burlesque is only for the young or those with ‘perfect’ bodies- but this couldn't be further from the truth.

Our most famous industry icon, Dita Von Teese, is older than me and in my opinion only gets better every year and continues to be an amazing role model. I think her experience is what adds to her performances and I love that - while her personal brand is very consistent- she has evolved and matured her stage personas.

One of the most beautiful aspects of burlesque is that there is a focus on sharing perspectives on striptease that are diverse (and I mean we could do a whole other discussion about how this could be improved in the wider industry).

But from my perspective, when I started performing there was a strong link to diverse bodes and perspectives - rather than trying to fit into a narrow definition of beauty.

So for me, I encourage anyone that starts out later in their life is that burlesque is just one more opportunity as a form of self-expression.

That could just be you at home; you in the dance studio or you in front of an audience.

Sharing your version and vision of sexy and striptease - or using striptease to share a perspective- is not age bound.

And just as we have a right to body autonomy, I also think we have a right to be sexy and to present these perspectives at any age.

I also think socially this is really important- that we don’t stop having a sexual identity just because we hit an age milestone.

How to get started in burlesque (at any age)?

If you are burlesque curious and just don’t know where to start exploring, I would say that most cities have some type of burlesque class.

It’s not just a great way to learn, but you will be amazed about the types of people you will meet and the friendships you can develop.

It’s also great that there are so many schools that offer online classes. So if you still aren’t confident in going into a space on your own, there is so much you can learn in your own home.

A couple of places I recommend:

• Jezebel Express

• Ginger Valentine

• Maison Burlesque

• Bombshell Burlesque Academy

Watch burlesque shows and go to events!

Going to a burlesque show is also a great way to give you inspiration and help you understand the different styles and types of performers within the art form. Y

You'll likely see performers of various ages, which can be encouraging.

And if you are travelling, look up what might be happening. It can be a great way to see a city from a different perspective.

Remember it’s okay to start small and go at your own pace

However you want to begin - from researching onine, to trying a virtual class through to going to a class. There’s no reason age should be a barrier. And it’s never to late to take up a hobby, develop an interest or explore something creative. We encourage this in children and young people and talk about the value of hobbies and interests — this shouldn’t be any different because of your age.

So why not give it a try? You might just discover a new passion and a wonderful community of like-minded individuals.

- Grace Cherry x

Owner, Miss Kitty’s Meow