Frequently Asked Questions
I'm not a dancer/performer/entertainer... I'm not a model/size 2/bombshell... is this for me?
ABSOLUTELY. Burlesque takes its strength and power from being truly about finding love for one's body, then each individual finding their expression of that love through performance on stage with the added flash of glitter, sequins and feathers. One of the main benefits you will receive from this Experience is learning to love yourself better, exactly as you are. All body types, sizes, ages, and gender identities are welcome. In fact, the more variety we have in our group, the more exciting our show!
What's the difference between burlesque and stripping?
Burlesque and Stripping are very different. While both are titillating and provocative in their own ways, the basic difference is that burlesque is a journey, while stripping is a destination. Stripping's objective is revealing nudity. Burlesque's objective is to prolong the tease, just shy of nudity. Burlesque also encourages playfulness and parody, and does not take itself too seriously. Burlesque is live theater with skin!
Will I have to get naked/nude/nekkid on stage?
Burlesque isn't about nudity, it's about the tease! It's about allure, about mystery and glamour, everything we're missing in today's society. Though it may have been scandalously saucy in the early 20th century, against the backdrop of the 21st century, burlesque is an innocent and playful approach to sensuality. Today, it is most definitely more tantalizing to conceal than to reveal . While you will be pushing yourself out of your comfort zones with your dance, we do not recommend anything that will jeopardize your values, boundaries or personal limits.
What happens if I have to miss a class?
We have a 80% attendance requirement in order to participate and graduate with your class mates - we totally understand other life issues and scheduling concerns, however as the majority of our focus is on being introduced to and learning the art of burlesque through the group routine, each individual's presence is required to make the experience complete. We normally cannot schedule make up classes for those missed. We highly recommend visit the 101 page to see class dates and scheduling before committing.
What will I learn?
In the 10-week Burlesque 101 workshop you will learn the history and background of Burlesque as a performance art form. You’ll learn about how to develop a character, create an act, and choreograph a striptease to music. You’ll learn performance skills while learning a group routine and each student is given the opportunity to create their own solo act.
What should I wear?
Whatever you want! Group classes are taught in a conversational format, except for the occasional movement exercise. Individual private rehearsals are taught in an experiential format, where you and your instructors will work together to choreograph and refine your routine.
What do I wear?
Be comfortable... a tank top and booty shorts or bike shorts are recommended. Feel free to dress it up and wear fishnet stockings, thigh highs, ruffle panties, etc. For movement classes specifically, bring a pair of high heels with you that aren’t too high – 3 inches or less are usually just fine. For the first class, we will do some movement warmup.
When/How do I arrive?
You can park on the street. There are several Trimet stops within a few blocks of the studio as well.
What can I expect?
Each class content is different but all will begin with a warm-up walk & stretch and a cool down sit and chat; with the exception of the first class, which will feature the same content in a different order.
How many students are in a class?
No more than 12 students are in any 101 workshop, which guarantees lots of individual attention.
Do I have to perform in pasties?
Many students do choose to reveal down to pasties, but it’s totally up to the individual performer what they want to wear for their costume on stage for their solo and to what degree of undress they choose to reveal.
Do I have to create my own act?
You are not required to perform as a soloist. If you should, the development of your routine is ultimately your responsibility, you will receive group lessons, one-on-one coaching and plenty of feedback and support to perfect your routine in time for the show.
Aside from tuition, what other expenses are there?
Your tuition covers basic supplies, studio rental, and compensating faculty. Like in college, where in addition to tuition students are responsible for textbooks; you will also be responsible for your costume, pasties, accessories, and lingerie for your stage performance. You may have these pieces in your closet already, and you can also find exciting pieces in thrift stores, Ebay and vintage shops. Also, as we discuss with each other as a group, you'll find that others are eager to lend you what you may not have! This doesn't have to break the bank- your creativity will go a long way! While there are some additional optional expenses, we have done our best to keep all other expenses affordable and have resourced local and online vendors, many of which provide exclusive discounts!
How often are classes held?
We generally have three 101 sessions per year, ten weeks apart and between 4-6 weeks between sessions with workshops and classes in between. To ensure a fair registration process, we send an email when we have finalized dates for the next 101 session and encourage interested parties to pre-register. We then send pre-registrants an email with the time and date that deposit registration opens which allows them first access to secure their spots.
Can anyone take class?
Our school is focused on body positivity while experiencing an introductory burlesque lesson series... and is open to anyone of any gender, gender identity, sexual expression/identity, size, race, age, or artistic background (or lack thereof)!
Still have questions? Feel free to contact us here
