I joined my first Burlesque Chair Dance class in 2017 and was instantly hooked; with every new routine becoming my favourite and I just loved being part of something that celebrates femininity.

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It has been such a fun, liberating and empowering experience. It has also been a tremendous help in my personal healing process dismissing self-doubt and nurturing self-confidence in a safe space.

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I completed my instructor training and then started my own classes in 2019 to share this experience with more dancers locally.

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I had a generic health and fitness background with running, gym, aerobics, some salsa and jive dancing; bootcamp; circuits; Zumba/aerobic classes and I’d not long had my first black belt in freestyle karate (kickboxing). Burlesque Chair Dance felt so different from anything else I’d tried; much more fun, glamorous, and sexy! As a result, I am still dancing with no end in sight!

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The best part of Burlesque Chair Dance for me is the dancers, witnessing their transformation from their first session. Nobody dims each other’s light, we all glow within it (and sometimes we sweat, a lot..)!

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From an initial message or call where an interested person is feeling nervous, saying things like they “can’t dance”, they “have no rhythm”, they experience “body confidence” issues, or they have specific health conditions; to them then stepping out of their comfort zone and turning up to their first class; to excitedly announcing they loved the session and will be back next week; then totally immersing themselves in the group; is such a rewarding part of my instructor role. It’s warming to feel the bonds that our dancers create with one another that transcends the dance sessions. They support each other in and out of class. They shine through their alter egos and embed themselves in the class. We have dancers who let loose with their creative flair making costumes and accessories for their fellow dancers; especially for our masterclasses and other burlesque-related occasions.

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I particularly love our local showcase events when we get to proudly celebrate our dancers’ progress with their friends and family and our local community. Everyone wants to be a part of it; it’s such a buzz. When we perform at charity events the dancers are always thrilled at how far they have come, unleashing themselves on stage. The audience reaction is priceless.

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My aim is to deliver fun dance sessions where everybody is made to feel welcome, feels seen and heard; supported to learn a burlesque-style routine and empowered to move and embrace the body they have!

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