In 2019 my world crumbled. I was a single mother with a newborn, fresh out of a toxic, abusive relationship that had stripped me of every ounce of self‑worth. The women’s refuge and the police were my only lifelines. They kept me safe, but they could not restore the spark that had vanished from me.

Every morning I stared at the mirror and didn’t recognise the woman looking back. My heart felt numb, my mind was constantly stuck in survival mode, and the thought of ending it all seemed almost normal. I was at rock bottom, lonely, sad, and completely lost.

That’s when I decided to do something for myself.

Burlesque Chair Dance - It sounded fun, a little cheeky, and different! I signed up on a whim, hoping a few minutes on a chair would give me a reason to get out of the house.

What followed was nothing short of a miracle. By May 2019, I passed my Level 1 Burlesque Chair Dance instructor exam. A year later, in May 2020, I earned my Advanced Level 2 Instructor status and added a Flex It Trainer certification to my skill set.

The chair became my sanctuary. Each spin, each lay back reminded me I still possessed a body that could move, a mind that could learn, and a spirit that could shine.

Before the chair, I had spent years in leisure management, became a certified swimming instructor and later a pole‑fitness instructor. Those qualifications taught me how to break down complex movements, how to motivate adults of all ages, and most importantly how to build confidence through physical 

achievement.

My burlesque chair dance students have become an extended family, they laugh, they cry, they support each other and they celebrate each tiny victory, they are continually pushing each other to new heights.

Seeing them grow into beautiful, self‑assured dancers reminds me daily that the chair that once rescued me is now a blessing and sanctuary for countless others to rediscover themselves.

Becoming a burlesque instructor has opened many doors I never imagined were possible. Here’s a snapshot of my achievements so far:-

* 6 sell‑out shows produced under my direction, each one a celebration of empowerment and artistry.

* Formation of The Burlesque Belles, my show team composed of my regular class attendees.

* I am now a regular performer and perform at prestigious
events across the Isle of Wight.
* I am responsible for producing regional UK dance champions
and a national UK champion.
* I have been crowned Best Instructor in the South region 2025
and Best Instructor UK champion 2025.
* I have been nominated and shortlisted for the Isle of Wight's
Most Inspirational Person in the Community two years running,
acknowledging my impact beyond the studio walls and
providing safe and inclusive spaces for my community.
If there’s one lesson I’ve learned, it’s that a single, unexpected
decision can change a life from darkness into light.
If you ever find yourself staring at a mirror, wondering who
you’ve become, take heart: the chair is waiting. Whether you’re
a mother, a survivor, or simply someone craving a new
adventure, Burlesque Chair Dance offers more than
choreography, it offers a pathway back to yourself.
Ready to dance?
Drop me a line at - missautumnstarbcd@yahoo.com
Follow my journey on Instagram - miss_autumn_star
Book a trial class at - bookwhen.com/missautumnstarbcd
Thank you for reading, and I hope to see you on the chair soon.