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Community Corner

Burlesque 101 with GeeGee Louise!

Burlesque 101 with GeeGee Louise is a series of five classes designed for absolute beginners to receive a comprehensive education in the art of the tease, or amateurs who want to brush up on the basics from an acclaimed performer in the burlesque scene.

Through Burlesque 101 you will learn the fundamentals of burlesque performance. Each class will consist of practicing essential classic dance moves while building your burlesque vocabulary. The moves we rehearse every class will be incorporated into a mini-routine so you can start learning how to memorize choreography. We will cover the utilization of props, as well as discuss the history and costuming of burlesque performance. With direction from your instructor, the incomparable GeeGee Louise, you will begin to create a stage persona, and develop the confidence to perform in front of others!

This series is gals-only and limited to 8 students a class to ensure quality instruction in an intimate setting. Pre-registration required. Classes may be taken separately, or together as a series. Commit to the entire series and get one class free!

Unless otherwise noted, please wear something that brings out your inner stripteaser and that you'll be able to move in (workout clothes are just as acceptable, too!) Please bring character shoes or heels for all classes.

When you arrive at the building please call the studio phone, (860) 508-1017, to let us know you're here so we can let you in!


Here's what we will cover (and in some cases, uncover!)-

Week 1:

This week you will learn the essential movement of burlesque the bump 'n' grind! Work on your poise and posture as we cover how to pose like a real showgirl, as well as practice facial expressions. Burlesque history will be the topic of discussion.


Week 2:

This week we will cover one of the most sensual and theatrical costume removes - the glove peel! Also, learn how to quiver and quake as we add the shimmy to your repertoire! Current burlesque performers will be the topic of discussion. Practice gloves provided.


Week 3:

This week we will wrap ourselves up in marabou and cover boa play! Feathers will fly when we also learn how to strut and saunter in heels. Building your burlesque character and ways to help you choose a stage name will be discussed. Practice boas provided.


Week 4:

This week we will learn how to remove heels with ease and elegance to successfully execute the stocking peel! Then, showcase those gams with some floorwork. Thigh-high stockings supplied. Please wear close-fitting workout shorts or pants that can be rolled up comfortably to your upper thighs. Costuming will be the topic of discussion.


Week 5:

The finale class to our 101 series! You will make and decorate your own set of tasseled pasties through instruction by Kristen. Learn different methods of application to the body* (as well as how to remove them) followed by a lesson by GeeGee Louise in how to twirl in ways and directions you never thought possible!

*No nudity required, if you don't wish to adhere them to your skin in class, over a bra or close-fitting tank is fine!

Class will run 5 consecutive Tuesdays from 7-8:30pm starting October 9th.

$25/class or $99 for the entire series!

Registration can be found at http://burlesque101.brownpapertickets.com

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