General Academy FAQ
Are men welcome?
Absolutely! Unless the class is specifically listed as open only to a
specific sex or gender, all are welcome!
I'm plus-size/skinny/disabled/over60/have tattoos/have cellulite/under
18... do I fit in?
Absolutely! However, the Burlesque 101 Recital is held at a bar, so
performers must be over 21 in order to participate in the performance. The
classes are open to persons of all backgrounds, sizes, abilities, ages, and
experience levels. Some venues are not easily accessible for wheelchairs,
so please inquire if you have specific access needs.
Is Burlesque all glamour and glitter?
Burlesque, and particularly
modern Burlesque, has many different manifestations. Glamour and glitter
are just one! There is also punk-rock Burlesque, goth Burlesque, comic
narrative Burlesque, Clown Burlesque, Boylesque, and more.
How is Burlesque different from Stripping?
Burlesque and Stripping have uniquely different objectives and dance
techniques. Stripping's objective is revealing nudity. Burlesque's
objective is to call attention to all the moments of revealing, and to
tease just shy of nudity. Burlesque also encourages mockery and parody,
so tends to be funnier and more lighthearted than Stripping.
What if I don't live in Seattle?
Academy courses are taught
all over the world. If you'd like to host a class in your city, please
contact Miss Indigo Blue to find out how you can book her in your town!
Where do I get pasties?
We recommend TwirlyGirl.net, extraordinary
pasties for discriminating nipples.
Classes, Twirling, and More...
About Burlesque 101
What will I learn?
In the 6-week Burlesque 101 workshop you
will learn the history and background of Burlesque as a performance
art form. You'll learn about how to develop a character, create an
act, and choreograph a striptease to music. You'll learn performance
skills, and finally have the opportunity to perform in front of a live
audience in a small, intimate venue.
What should I wear?
Whatever you
want! Group classes are taught in a conversational format, except
for the occasional movement exercise. Individual private rehearsals are taught
in an experiential format, where Miss Indigo and you will work together to
choreograph and refine your routine.
How many students are in a class?
No
more than 10 students are in any workshop, which guarantees lots
of individual attention.
Do I have to perform in pasties?
Many students
do choose to perform in pasties, but it's totally up to the individual
performer what they want to wear for their costume on stage. All performers
must comply with local liquor laws with respect to nudity.
About Dance Classes
What will I learn?
In the dance classes, you will learn the
basics of the bump and grind, shimmy and shake, as well as short dance sequences
that are sassy and fun. You'll also do basic dance warm-ups and have a great
workout!
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable stretchy clothing, and a short sassy skirt if you want.
Please don't wear jeans! Always bring a pair of heels for the second part
of class.
How many students are in a class?
Between 4-20 depending on
the drop-in attendance.
Do I have to get naked in class?
Classes are taught in clothes! If you'd like to dress skimpily, you're
welcome to!
About Tassel Twirling
What will I learn?
You will learn how pasties are made and what
makes a *great* pair of pasties. You'll learn how to affix and remove them
from your body. And, you'll learn how to twirl your tasseled pasties in at
least 5 different ways!
What should I wear?
Comfy clothes and a shirt you're willing
to take off.
How many students are in a class?
Between 4 and 30 depending on the venue.
Do I have to get naked in class?
No, but you'll have to remove
your shirt in order to affix the pasties to your nipples.