be a burlesque dancer

How I did it: For me, it started with seeing a fabulous show in London.  Two of my best friends started a troupe and I came running.  It didn't hurt that I had hardcore dance and costume experience in other venues, so I didn't take any classes, I just jumped in.

How you join will have a lot to do with what you want out of the experience and what you want to put in.  Here's some options:

1. Classes - they run the range from practical, to empowering, to downright spiritual.  Pick a teacher that suits you and makes you feel comfortable.  Pick a class that challenges you in the way you want to be challenged.  Some classes feature a recital at the end, which lets you perform in semi-public to a very supportive audience - your friends and family!
   
2. Amateur Shows - some cities offer amateur shows - for example, in Boston we have Taste of Burlesque.  The show doesn't pay, but it gives you a chance to sign up and strut your stuff with very little effort.  Your responsibilty is to prep a peice that makes you happy.  Great for after taking a class, or if you already have dance chops and want to try something new.
   
3. Troupes - I'm sure others might disagree, but in my opinion, troupes are for people with some training.  Take at least one class, or prepare at least one solo before auditioning for a troupe.  The exception is - some troupes offer internships.  You can hang with the gang, help out and get some free instruction.  You trade your time for free classes, that are usually deeper, more practical and more personalized than paid-for classes.
   
4. A full fledged career - some folks love it all so much, they want to go it alone and be professional dancers.  That's great, but it adds a ton of work that the other 3 options don't.  Being a professional means being a business woman (or man!).  Prepare to spend 50% of your effort on getting gigs and promoting them and yourself.  The other 50% is in developing awesome numbers and costumes.  If you think this sounds like a full time job, you're right.

Lessons & tips: It's really important to find your own comfort level.  Be clear with yourself and others on:
- how much clothing you plan to remove
- how much effort you want to put into this
- whether you just want some short term fun, or whether this is a permanent thing in your life.

Resources: www.bostonbabydolls.net

Is the troupe I work with.  We do shows.  Our director runs and amateur show as well.  We also teach classes.  We are based in the Boston area, but have been known to travel about the country.

Dec 30, 2008, 01:26PM PST | 0 comments