Fancy getting fit, building your confidence and learning performance skills that are transferrable to the bedroom? Well ladies I have the answer for you- Burlesquercise!
What, When and where?
20.15- 21.45 Friday Evenings Chapeltown Community Centre,
Sheffield
Hell’s Belle, 35, (real name Lara) has been holding Burlesque dance classes in Chapeltown for over a year. The class averages 30 members aged 17-72 and caters to all levels of ability. Those involved come from as far away as
Doncaster and
Barnsley to learn the art of Burlesque; working up to their own desired level as well as performing in cabaret nights and class shows.
Why Burlesque? The night I visit is former line dancing teacher Michelle’s first night.Asked what made her come along to the class Michelle,34, says: “I like Dita Von Teese, I think she is amazing. I wanted to get back into dancing and get my fitness back and thought this would be a fun way to do it.”
Dita Von Teese: The Queen of the New Burlesque
Class teacher Lara who has been teaching since she was 18 explains Burlesque has always had a following in this area, but interest has soared since Dita Von Teese entered the media spotlight through her now ended marriage to metal star Marilyn Manson.
“The media interest in Dita Von Teese has really helped Burlesque into the mainstream” says Lara.
But Burlesque is not just for petite super starlets.
“Burlesque is for ladies of any age, ability, body size and shape, it’s a celebration of the woman you are.”
As the classes have progressed lara says she has noticed a huge difference in the confidence and self esteem of the ladies who come along.
“Burlesque is for ladies of any age, ability, body size and shape, it’s a celebration of the woman you are. The classes offer you the chance to reach your own level and goal, whether that be public performance or the privacy of your own bedroom.” Says Lara.
Kia, 19, from Chapeltown, has long blond hair and curves which could have been made for Burlesque.
“I want to show him what he’s missing!”
She has been coming to the classes for a few weeks and says she came along to build up her confidence after splitting with an ex.
“It’s early days but Im hoping to get really good and take part in one of the shows, I want to show him what he’s missing!”
What to wear
Some of the ladies in the class are dressed in leggings and oversized tshirts whilst others model frilly corsets with fishnets, most wear high heels.
“The most important thing is to be comfortable, but a lot of the women like to dress up so they feel like dancers.” Lara explains.
“The heels help the women feel different and dance differently as they alter the way you carry yourself, whether you wear them with leggings or stocking and suspenders!”
Fancy giving it a go?
Hell’s Belle has a new Burlesque and Cabaret Dance class starting on Wednesday 30th April (8-10pm) @ The Embassy, Mansfield Road, Intake, Sheffield, S12 2AG. There’s a bar on hand to give you that dutch courage, and there is also parking available for drivers!
Hell’s Belle also offers private lessons and performances for birthday,valentines and anniversary gifts as well as stag and hen parties.
To find out more about learning Burlesque or to enquire about hiring Hell’s Belle for private tuition or performance visit
http://www.velvetburlesque.co.uk/
By Fay Nyberg
