Lighting and the technical side of burlesque and performing can be really intimidating. So, I thought I’d share a few simple tips for planning how you can address these technical needs. Plus, you can download a free tip sheet to save and use for any future planning!
Read MorePerforming and costuming tips from a veteran burlesque artist… When you’re starting out, try not to spend more on a costume than you’ll earn from the gig.It’s so tempting to want the sparkliest rhinestones, custom pieces and all the extras (trust me, we’ve all been there!). But remember - building your costume collection is a marathon, not a sprint.
Read MoreEnjoy another post in my ongoing series of exceptionally sporadic posts - catching up with performers who are embarking on the Act Development Course.
Hear from Delilah Moon who is making a burlesque solo performance on 24 and 25 July at the Moonah Arts Centre after many months of hard work.
Read MoreYou can note in the title that I said ‘business’….
Not necessarily about starting performing. But the business side of being a performer. Getting on stage on your own or running your own venture can be an exciting and empowering endeavour - but there are certainly things I wish I had known when I first ventured into this world.
I have been on a constant journey of evolution over the past 15 years or so. So hopefully I have a few insights that might help.
In all honesty there are about a thousand and one things that I would do differently/better/improve on. So let us consider this part one in probably a never-ending series of ‘things I wish I had done differently’
Read MoreWhen you’re developing a burlesque solo, (especially if for the first time!) you can often just focus on music, choreography and costumes. This is absolutely essential! But I would add that developing an act description or act outline is a great starting point.
Not only is this something you’ll need in the future when you are applying for shows or festivals.
But it will also clarify your concept - saving yourself some uncertainty and helping to lock in your ideas.
Read MoreWhether you are new to burlesque or have been performing for years, you always deserve to be paid for your time. It doesn’t matter how much experience you have, the discussion about asking for a fee still feels terrifying! If you want some tips from Grace Cherry about asking for fees…read on!
Read MoreOver 40 and still rocking the stage? Grace Cherry writes about staying inspired as a seasoned burlesque performer—through teaching, evolution, intention, and unapologetic glam.
Read MoreDiscover Grace Cherry’s views on things we need to normalise saying in burlesque - from rest to learning how to say no. Let’s create a more sustainable practice as performers!
Read MoreBlues and Burlesque Beats is not your average Hobart burlesque show. This is a full-bodied experience where the smoky rhythms of live blues meet the glittering world of burlesque. Think velvet vocals courtesy of Sam & the 78s - complemented with feather fans, tassels and tease.
Read MoreSh*t I say frequently as a burlesque teacher…. I know! I hear the words coming out and sometimes I can’t stop .
Read MoreRead MoreYou (or to be specific your burlesque act) is never going to be perfect. Stop waiting for it - Grace Cherry
Let’s change that to - I’m not good at that, yet”. Or to “I just haven’t learnt how to do that….yet”
Read MoreAs I write this post, our feather fan dancing course has become super popular and has booked out a good 5 weeks in advance. If you would like an extra course, answer the poll and let’s see where we go!
Read More“….I don’t know if I shattered some illusions with my students by letting them know that this is only piece of the many facets of artist administration they are likely to encounter - even as an amateur or emerging artist”
Read MoreDon’t know where to start in figuring out how to charge for a burlesque performance? Not sure about how to explain your current fee structure? I use the Live Performance Award to help explain to producers and potential gigs my fees.
Read MoreIt’s always good – especially at the start of a new year or new course – to have some ideas to keep you motivated and engaged - especially as you get more confident as a burlesque student@
Read MoreYou wouldn’t wake up and run a 5km race. So don’t expect yourself to be able to dance every step right out of the gate.
I am part way through teaching a new series of burlesque courses, ranging from the traditional classic style through to some pinup and neo burlesque styles.
Every time I get underway and see a new and amazing group of students coming in the door, I am always reminded at how hard people can be on themselves.
Read More“I love all the different styles of burlesque and the opportunity and excuse it gives you to be anyone you want” - Ms Chevious
Read More“She is flirty and fun with a touch of class.
She will be flicking her hair and toasting a glass.
She is Bubbly and bespoke, lust she will evoke.
She is expensive champagne you will want over again.” - Lily Le Blanc
Read MoreI definitely get asked about posing the body, and how you can make a dazzling impression.
Firstly, it’s all about the attitude. It doesn’t matter what pose or stance you take - you have to ‘attack’ it with the same level of delusional confidence of a certain presidential candidate.
And of course your burlesque alter ego and style is going to dictate a lot about the way you want to present yourself.
However, I always have some ‘go to’ positions that I share that make me feel pretty confident and comfortable on stage.
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