Fresno Famous

Learn the Basics of Burlesque with Amanda Allure & Joie de Vivre Founders of Fresno's Premier Burlesque collective, the Valley Burlesque Society.

Weekly - Starting March 30, 2009


Mondays 6:30 - 7:30pm


At California Arts Academy - Severance


1401 Wishon Ave. at Floradora in the Tower District of Fresno, CA



Only $90 prepaid for 8 weeks (that's only $11.25 per class!) or $20 drop-in rate per class All ages welcome, 18 and over.

All levels of dance experience (or no dance experience) are welcome in this introductory instructional series to the wonderful world of burlesque and striptease. Come learn REAL burlesque for REAL women, with REAL bodies, from real burlesque performers.

8 weeks of classes will include:


* An overview of the history of burlesque and the art of the tease


* Instruction in basic stage presence and developing a character or stage persona


* Introduction to garment removal techniques


* Basic costume theory and construction


* Basic movement instruction


* A full choreography for group performance at the end of the series (Participation in the stage show is not required to take this class.)


* Comprehensive class handouts in burlesque history, how to create a costume, various resources, and how to come up with a stage name.




Students may wish to purchase class materials for a one time lab-fee of $25 or less. These materials consist of a pair of black satin gloves, a black feather boa, and materials for a shimmy belt fitted to the student. Actual cost is determined by the cost of supplies. There is no mark-up. Purchase is not required to take the class.

Combining physical instruction with brief lecture sessions, students gain a comprehensive overview of the basics of modern burlesque.



With over 20 years of combined dance and performance experience, Amanda Allure and Joie de Vivre have brought the authentic glamour and sparkle of burlesque to Fresno in the spirit of their mentors Penny Starr, Jr. and Jewel of Denial, and you can be a part of it. Accept no substitutions. The Basics of Burlesque Instructional Series is for anyone that wants to learn to strut her stuff, whether on a stage or in front of the bedroom mirror. Learn confidence, poise, and how to dazzle an audience, all with your own unique personality.



To register for classes, Paypal fee to Joie_deVivre@comcast.net , or for any questions, please email AmandaAllure@msn.com or Joie_deVivre@comcast.net



As always, before considering any new workout or exercise, please consult with your physician to make sure it is safe and right for you.



No refunds, no substitutions, makeup classes are not available.



Private instruction and tutoring is available and can be arranged with instructors.