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Burlesque
Fitness / Dance Class:
It's DONE!!! Woooohoooo!!!
View pics & video!
The
Show - Thursday, August 20th!
Read
about my own journey with Burlesque
What
is Burlesque? Contrary to popular opinion, performing burlesque is not
just about stripping (though striptease is often a
component).
Burlesque is
a
humorous theatrical entertainment involving parody and sometimes
grotesque exaggeration. In 20th century America, the form became
associated with a variety show in which
striptease is the
chief attraction. Burlesque dancing is hard work, and not nearly as
easy as professional dancers make it look. Strong core and lengthened
muscle tone are required to perform many of the moves.
The
workshop I took included a lot of conditioning... abs, glutes, gams,
arms... it was serious work. The choreography was clever and well
designed, and the striptease was entirely individual... the gals could
take off as little or as much as they were comfortable with. For myself,
that meant gloves and robe. I was fully "clothed", showing less skin
than I do in a bathing suit. Some of the other girls went farther.
The
professionals,
Scandalesque, performed their own
routines which were funny, seductive, shocking, and awe-inspiring. While
at one point in my life, I may have had a low opinion of exotic dancers
and/or pole-dancers, this show alone would have changed my mind. The
women and men of Scandalesque are truly fit and fabulous. They work very
hard for their bodies and their skills are incredible. I watched Nyla,
one of the aerialists, perform amazing feats on a pole. I watched
Pyra Sutra work her wonders with flaming hoops, torches and even
pasties! Dolly Diamonds did a beautiful striptease that showcased the
true beauty of the female body. Diablo showed stunning grace and
strength on the aerial ribbons. And "Kelly with a Big Ol' K" was
funny, welcoming, and enviably comfortable in her own skin. They
each earned my respect. They also won my gratitude because they were
wonderfully warm and encouraging to us "Mylf's" who were terrified to
take our turn on the stage.
With a
show style slightly reminiscent of Cirque, the entire event was
exciting, new and fun. I applaud the Scandalesque troupe and am grateful
for the brief shining moment to be part of their world.
The
Class:
M.Y.L.F.®
Workshop
"Don't miss your opportunity to reclaim your pre-baby body, attitude,
and flare! We will also be training you for our M.Y.L.F.® Show, and your
chance to perform with Scandalesque at the Cherry Lounge and Pit in
Tempe, August 20th, 2009.
The
workshop required a LOT of practice, both in and out of class. To
help me "get in the mood", I created a playlist for my ipod. Having
music like this really helped me loosen up. I still use the
playlist for my at-home yoga sessions.
My
Burlesque Mood Music
Click on list to view in iTunes (The song we performed was Feelin'
Love, by Paula Cole)
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