Irish Burlesque School

I’m partial to a good cabaret/​burlesque show from time to time, so while I was searching for such events here in Dublin, I came across the Irish Burlesque School. My first thought was «I’ll never be able to strut around graciously wearing heels!» but then I found out about their Beginners class and I decided to sign up.
Find a comfortable — I know, I know — pair of heels and something you’d wear for a dance class, like a playsuit, leggings, shorts or even a dress, and you’re set! All you need is something that shows the line of your leg.
On the first class nobody knew exactly what to expect, but Lisa, our teacher, has a very friendly character and she immediately put everyone at ease. It’s hard work from day one, we do a good warm up with music, and then we go straight to learning the new steps or routine. It all looks very easy and simple, but getting it right AND walking on high heels is somewhat hard at first. Eight weeks later I couldn’t believe how much we had progressed!
Everything worked out. We all learned the steps, I had a lot of fun and, even better, I now walk effortlessly on a pair of heels!
The class was made up of girls of different ages, backgrounds and with different expectations. So don’t worry, whoever you are, you’ll certainly fit right in and feel welcome. I think the most common objectives there, besides learning how to dance burlesque, were learning how to walk more confidently and also giving a bit of a boost to your sexy side.
The classes are held at the modern Dance House, so the facilities are very good and you can even rent a locker there. I know some people are a bit afraid of this inner city area, but seriously, there’s nothing wrong with it, and besides the Dance House controls who goes in and out of the building.
I can’t recommend this enough!

I suppose I’m a bit addicted…
It began on a rainy, lonely night last March, I did an internet search of my favourite, sexy woman — Dita von Teese. I watched her fabulous Martini glass routine and thought, «Man, I wish I could move like her.»
A quick internet search later, and I had the name of Lisa Darling, founder of the Irish Burlesque School. I nervously signed up for an 8 week «Flirting with Burlesque» course, knowing full well my new heels would betray me for the clumsy, bumbling dancer I am. I received an email after a few days confirming my spot, and telling me to wear whatever was comfortable, but no platform or wedged heels. Deep breath… I could do this!
The first class was, as predicted, clumsy. We were all clumsy, tottling about on our heels, teeth clenched in seductive/​terrified grins as we hoisted our boas into the air. And you know what? It was fab!
I have never felt so safe as when I am in that classroom. Lisa Darling is an amazing teacher. She has a background on the West End and dancing burlesque in London for several years. She breaks the ice with some jokes and goes right into the lesson. 8 weeks later and I have already signed up for the «Noveau» class, a more fast-​paced, hip hop inspired burlesque.
The venue itself, The DanceHouse on Foley street, is perfect. The sound system is fantastic and the rooms are huge, which allow the dancers to spread out and see themselves in the mirrors.
My only complaint: class length. An hour, to me, seems a bit short to warm up and get into things. Since I’m already changed into my workout clothes and sweaty, I would prefer a 2 hour class or a 2 day/​week class, which would allow more time to get into the routines.
My self-​confidence has shot up since I started. The school has managed to pull in women of all ages and skill levels — it’s all about having fun.
Highly recommended for women of any skill level… sorry, no guys allowed!
*I changed my mind from 4 stars to 5 stars… I would give it 4.5 if it was an option, but I think the experience makes up for the class length