How old should you be to start taking Burlesque dancing classes?

happy dancing feet: How old should you be to start taking Burlesque dancing classes?
There’s this new class at my dance studio, Burlesque dancing. It looks really fun. What age do you think is acceptable to start at?

Answers and Views:

Answer by Marian
In theory, I would say as soon as you’re over the age of consent but not everyone will feel the same way. To be honest I think it depends on the kind of area you live in, what kind of people will be attending the class, etc.

Also, unfortunately, it matters how old you look. If you are a very young looking 16 year old, I wouldn’t recommend taking up Burlesque dancing just yet. However as a general rule of thumb, 18+ should be completely fine. After all you are an adult at 18 and what you do with your life is completely up to you.

Although most importantly, it’s really up to you to start when you feel that you are comfortable enough. At the end of the day, it’s entirely your decision and only you will know when you are ready – by the sounds of it, I think you feel pretty confident already so my advice is don’t hold back – get down there now!

Answer by spot
Burlesque is an exhibition dance that is not really suited for the truly innocent.

I am sure you know what burlesque is all about, but you may want to do some research to learn if your personality and experience matches up with some of the unofficial prerequisites for the art form.

Here are a couple of online articles that may give you an idea of what I am talking about.

https://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/2010/feb/06/burlesque-dancer-really-thinking-interview

•1
Learn a bit about the history of burlesque dancing before you fully commit to becoming a burlesque performer. Research famous burlesque stars like Abbot and Costello, Fannie Brice, and Kitten DeVille. Realize that this art isn’t a glorified form of stripping, but rather a melding of comedic and ironic humor injected with proactive images and commentary.

•2
Visit a burlesque show to get a feel for how the art is performed today. Many burlesque performers meld strip tease and acting to create a sense of seductive humor. Take notice of how the performers utilize costumes, props, and music to create a mood for their show that goes far beyond just dancing.

•3
Enroll in a few dance classes of a wide variety of genres; ballet, modern dance and even ballroom dancing will be beneficial styles to learn to get a good foundation of what elements typically go into burlesque dancing. Land a job at a burlesque show doing anything from tending bar to busing tables until you can get an opportunity to perform yourself. Drink in the environment to assimilate into the world of burlesque.

•4
Create a character persona for yourself that will be your sort of alter ego during your burlesque performances. Choose a stage name that embodies your character. Pick which themes you want to explore in your performances and make sure they are well thought out, witty, and above all else provocative in nature.

•5
Book your first gig at a local burlesque club, preferably one that you’ve frequented many times and made connections at. Spend a good deal of time working on your debut performance as it will no doubt be viewed by savvy burlesque fans who will use your debut as an opportunity to judge your skill as a burlesque dancer.

Read more: How to Become a Burlesque Dancer | eHow.com