How to Become a Burlesque Dancer: A Step-by-Step Guide for Aspiring Performers

Burlesque has experienced a colorful resurgence over the past two decades, transforming from its historic roots into a thriving, diverse art form that celebrates body positivity, creativity, and self-expression. Whether you’re an aspiring performer or simply curious about this vibrant world, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to becoming a burlesque dancer, from mastering the basics to staging your first show.

What is Burlesque?

Before diving into the how-to, it’s important to understand what burlesque really is. Burlesque is a theatrical performance that combines elements of dance, comedy, and drama. It often involves strategically removing clothing, but it’s more about the tease than the reveal. Done right, burlesque celebrates all body types and encourages performers to express their unique personas—be it glamorous, quirky, or downright outrageous.

Why Become a Burlesque Dancer?

Self-Expression: Burlesque allows you to explore and express your individuality and creativity.
Confidence Boost: The art of tease helps build self-esteem and body positivity.
Community: Joining the burlesque scene introduces you to a supportive network of like-minded performers.
Performing Arts: If you love to perform, burlesque offers a dynamic platform that combines multiple skills, including dance and acting.

Step 1: Understand the Art Form

Research the History of Burlesque

Start by familiarizing yourself with the history and evolution of burlesque. Know its roots in 19th-century theater, its Golden Age in the 20th century, and the contemporary revival that celebrates diversity and inclusivity today. Understanding its history will give you insight into the themes, styles, and traditions you might want to incorporate into your own performances.

Attend Shows

Before you jump into the world of performing, attend local burlesque shows. Observe the performers, the audience’s reactions, and different styles of acts. Pay attention to elements such as music, costumes, and choreography. Many cities have thriving burlesque communities, so look up performance venues and local artists.

Step 2: Discover Your Style

Identify Your Inspiration

Burlesque is all about personality. From classically glamorous performers to edgy, avant-garde acts, find what resonates with you. You could draw inspiration from:
Classic Hollywood
Vintage pin-up aesthetics
Circus and carnival themes
Pop culture references
Personal narratives and experiences

Create Your Persona

Your stage persona is a crucial part of your performance. Think about the character you want to embody. Are you a sultry siren, a playful tease, or a fierce warrior? This persona will inform your costume choices, choreography, and audience engagement.

Step 3: Develop Your Skills

Take Dance Classes

While you don’t need to be a trained dancer to start, taking dance classes can significantly improve your performance quality. Consider styles such as:
Jazz
Hip-hop
Belly dance
Contemporary
Classical ballet
Each of these can bring something unique to your act.

Consider Burlesque Dance Workshops

Many burlesque troupes offer workshops designed for beginners. These classes can teach you the basics of burlesque dance, choreography, and character development. You’ll also have the opportunity to meet fellow aspiring performers and learn from experienced dancers.

Master the Art of Tease

Teasing is at the heart of burlesque. Work on developing the ability to captivate your audience while building anticipation. Practice facial expressions, body language, and how to transition between playful and seductive moments.

Practice Stage Presence

Your stage presence is crucial to engaging your audience. Practice performing in front of a mirror and focus on your movements, expressions, and tone. Consider filming your practice sessions to analyze your strengths and areas for improvement.

Step 4: Costume and Props

Creating Your Burlesque Wardrobe

A great costume is a key element of any successful burlesque act. Your wardrobe should not only reflect your persona but also be functional for dance. Here are some tips for creating your look:
Start with the Basics: Invest in key items like a corset, high-waisted shorts, or a vintage-inspired dress that can serve as a foundation for multiple outfits.
Accessorizing: Feather boas, gloves, pasties, and hats can enhance your costume. Don’t shy away from adding unique accessories that represent your character.
Comfort and Mobility: Make sure your costume allows for freedom of movement. You want to wow the audience, not struggle to dance.

Using Props

Incorporating props into your act can add an extra layer of fun and engagement. Consider items such as:
Fans
Canes
Chairs
Umbrellas
Both whimsical and edgy props can offer unique dimensions to your performance.

Step 5: Find a Community

Connect with Local Burlesque Troupes

Once you’ve gained some foundational skills, start connecting with local burlesque communities. Many cities have troupes that host workshops, open mics, and shows. Joining a troupe can offer mentorship opportunities, performance chances, and supportive connections with fellow artists.

Online Communities

Consider joining online forums, social media groups, and websites dedicated to burlesque. Websites like Facebook, Instagram, and Reddit have active burlesque communities where you can ask questions, share ideas, and promote your work.

Step 6: Perform Your Act

Start Small

When you’re ready to take the stage, consider performing at open mic events or amateur nights. These opportunities are perfect for honing your performance skills while getting comfortable in front of an audience.

Plan Your Act

Create a routine that’s well-structured and engaging. A typical burlesque routine can range from 3 to 7 minutes, so make sure your act has an introduction, a story arc, a climax, and a stunning conclusion. Practice regularly to ensure you remember the choreography, transitions, and audience interaction points.

Promote Yourself

Once you feel confident, start promoting yourself. Create a social media profile dedicated to your burlesque persona, share photos and videos of your performances, and engage with fellow performers and fans.

Step 7: Manage Your Career

Build a Portfolio

As you gain more experience, start building a portfolio that showcases your skills, including photos, performance videos, and any press you receive. A strong portfolio will help you in securing gigs and establishing yourself in the burlesque scene.

Network

Networking is essential in the performing arts. Attend events, meet fellow artists, and don’t hesitate to reach out to established performers for advice or mentorship.

Embrace Criticism and Keep Learning

Feedback is a vital part of growth. Be open to constructive criticism, and continually look for ways to improve your performance. Stay updated on industry trends and keep refining your act.

Conclusion

Becoming a burlesque dancer is an exhilarating journey of self-discovery and artistic expression. By understanding the art form, developing your skills, creating captivating costumes, and connecting with a supportive community, you can make your burlesque dreams a reality. Remember that every performer starts somewhere; embrace your unique style, practice your craft, and most importantly, have fun on your burlesque journey!

Additional Resources

Books: Consider reading books on burlesque history, performance, and costume design for deeper insights.
Online Classes: Explore platforms like Skillshare or Udemy for online tutorials.
Local Performances: Keep track of local shows for inspiration and networking opportunities.
By following these steps, you can confidently step into the spotlight and showcase your creativity as a burlesque dancer. Whether you aim to perform professionally or simply for personal fulfillment, the joy of burlesque awaits you. Now, go ahead, unleash your inner diva, and let the world see the incredible performer you are meant to be!