Burlesque Dance Company duo Becca and Jenny, talk to us about their love of Burlesque, being members of the self-titled "Burlesque Babes" and their part in the upcoming dance show at Trinity Laban.
Burlesque is a sexy, empowering dance that is growing in popularity - hear Becca and Jenny talk about the preconceptions, their first experiences and what they love most about Burlesque.
Becca
Becca, far left, performing in the Winter Dance Showcase.
When did you start Burlesque Dancing and what made you take it up?
I took up Burlesque about two and a half years ago, completely by chance! My friend called me and asked me to come along to the beginner’s course with her - she had tried the taster class and told me it would be right up my alley. After the first class, I was hooked! I loved everything about it - the femininity, the style of dancing was just beautiful, but also so fun. Two and a half years later, I still love it.
What would you say to someone who was thinking of trying Burlesque?
Just go in with an open mind - you might have a preconceived notion of Burlesque, or be feeling nervous about what to expect, but you need to just leave that at the door. If you go in ready to embrace it, you'll have an amazing time and you won't feel nervous or embarrassed at all. It's a really fun and sexy style of dancing, and you'll feel amazing from the first class.
Your tutor is Suzy – what is she like and how does she help you?
Suzy is a fab tutor - she can be strict, but she's also fair and lets you know when you're getting better. She goes out of her way to make sure she's pushing you to be the best and to have an amazing performance. She's currently in the process of making 25 cancan skirts for our show! She always goes the extra mile and it shows in class, making sure she gives you personal feedback that really makes a difference.
Your dance show is in just under a months’ time. What is the best thing about dancing in the company?
Definitely the camaraderie - you get to see the same happy faces every week, and they really become your closest friends. You always know you're going to get on, because you all love to dance! There's nothing like seeing everyone dancing together, getting better and encouraging each other. It's so lovely to share your achievement with a group of your favourite people!
After the first class, I was hooked! I loved everything about it - the femininity, the style of dancing was just beautiful, but also so fun. Two and a half years later, I still love it.
What do your friends and family think of you being part of a dance show? Are they excited to see you perform?
My friends and family love me being a part of the show. They have come to all my shows and they know it's so much fun. They're so excited to see what we come up with - there's always a surprise! And they love to see the other companies - there's so much talent at the showcase, they don't just come to see me.
You have set your routine in Paris. Have any of you been to Paris and seen Moulin Rouge dancers?
I've never been myself, but lots of members of the company have! They really loved it and we're planning a company trip to Paris later this year to see what we've been inspired by at the Moulin Rouge.
Jenny
Jenny, performing in the Spring Dance Show last year.
When did you start Burlesque Dancing and what made you take it up?
I joined Burlesque when the company first started. I had been a member of the Jazz Company and was asked to attend Suzy's Burlesque taster class and I fell in love with the style - it was her teaching and my interest in the form that made me continue Burlesque dancing.
How would you describe the style of Burlesque you dance in the Company?
Burlesque to me is very feminine and sexy. The Company dances a mixture of Jazz, Broadway and Ballet techniques, with sass in the moves. It doesn't involve taking clothes off or the art of stripping, like other Burlesque dancers, but we do learn the art of teasing. We find ways to catch the audience through our moves and expressions.
What would you say to someone who was thinking of trying some Burlesque dancing?
I think Burlesque dancing really lifts your confidence. Our company has girls of all sizes and we are all just so comfortable with our bodies because of the dancing that we do. They should definitely give it a go because it is such a stress buster. Every move pushes you to go further and believe in yourself.
I think Burlesque dancing really lifts your confidence. Our company has girls of all sizes and we are all just so comfortable with our bodies because of the dancing that we do.
Your dance show is in just under a months’ time. What is the best thing about dancing in the Burlesque company?
We are like a big family in the company, and are always there for each other. I love that bonding within, although we only see each other once a week we evolve together as a group through dance. I love that I get to learn the techniques as well as to perform on a big stage.
What can the audience expect from your Company for this show?
This show, Burlesque is going back to its roots - France! A bit of humour, a bit of sexiness, and a lot of energy. We are going to leave an impact! The costumes look great! The attitude of the company members is super! The audience will have a great time!
Becc
a and Jenny are members of the City Academy Burlesque Dance Company. They rehearse weekly and perform at theatres twice a year.
Interested in the Burlesque Company or want to try a Burlesque class? See here.
