Thread: I really need some help guys

:help:
Hi,
I've been looking around for a good couple of years now for burlesque classes in the Leeds area. I used to work for a photographer and model a lot (i do have a burlesque portfolio).
And not trying to sound like a sob-story here, but due to being a uni student and also having to care for a disabled mother, i don't have any money at all.
All i have ever dreamed for is to be on the stage, doing burlesque work and putting my classical singing roots to some use.
I have loved burlesque since a very young age, watching old films etc. And it is really starting to become on of those things that i think im going to have to let go of.
However, i really don't want to. I have never let any of my dreams go. And i have worked so bloody hard to make some of them happen.
Could anybody give me some advice on how i could get the basics of burlesque without having to spend money? any people who wouldnt mind coaching me for just a small amount? really. i don't want to let this go.

Many thanks to anyone who can help.
Lucy

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Teach yourself. No cheaper way to learn! If you've got a decent grounding in the background then just give it a go, play around with ideas and see what you come up with. I don't understand why there seems to be this perception that the only way to learn is by taking classes - it's just not the case ...

Somewhere on the forum there is a thread on the dance background of various performers which may be worth a look over to see if there is a commonality of background styles? But to be honest there isn't a single "burlesque style" - the best performers (IMO) have their own styles developed from their own dance and theatrical background.

Welcome and good luck with your ambitions. By participating in the discussions on these boards, you will earn "credits" that can be "cashed-in" for a copy of the MoB beginners DVD. That's something for nothing........

:wave:

i know all about the individual learning. like teaching oneself. i do all the time. just i can never get the guts to go to castings and things incase i look a tit.
i need someone to help me get my career on track, and help me develop my routines etc...

Originally Posted by Fleur du Mal

Teach yourself. No cheaper way to learn! If you've got a decent grounding in the background then just give it a go, play around with ideas and see what you come up with. I don't understand why there seems to be this perception that the only way to learn is by taking classes - it's just not the case ...

couldn't agree more:twothumbs:
Classes and workshops can be a great way to build up your confidence but they aren't the be all and end all, as Fleur says if you have some ideas then give it a go! good luck Hon.

One thing you could do is look around local dance schools for free 'give it a go' sessions that many will give either in January or September (term times). Even just popping along to one ballet class, or any other form of dance that you might like, will give you an insight and some moves to incorporate in a routine. Most schools also hold one day workshops, and as a student you should be able to get discount - also check out any clubs/socs run by your S.U., which are normally free and have no set clothing requirements aside from comfy trackies/trainers or even bare foot. Going along would definately help develop routines and confidence!

Simply by watching videos you can pick up bits and pieces (I'm in the same situation, lack of £ and want to start learning). Stand in front of a full length mirror and check your posture and poses as you go along - or get a friend to video you practicing so you can see how you're doing. The MoB community is really friendly, so if you are looking to perform check the castings section on here which offer opportunities for new performers to strut their stuff and get experiece. Plus, other members might be going to the same ones - moral support! Also remember that costume isn't everything, and some of the best outfits I've seen have turned out to be home-made or customised.

Also, look out for photographers on here in need of models - try people who are offering cd's or prints of your photo's in return for the shoot. That way you can get some lovely pics to publicise yourself (Try 'Piksells', I'm getting a shoot done in Feb)

No one is going to laugh at you for having the guts to get up there - everyone starts somewhere!

Good luck! x x x

Hi,
Im i little bit the same as you in that i dont have a huge amount of spare money each month to spend on myself but im hoping to get started with some DVDs and stuff and then hopefully get the confidence to go and try out - i have found that everyone here seems to be really friendly and so am hopeful that it will be ok at a casting and i wont get laughed off stage lol!
Maybe to get started you could use some close friends as an audience? is soon i i have figured some king of routene out thats what im gonna do, then at least if you do look a real tit they will tell you!!
Good luck hun, if you ever need someone to accompany you to any castings or anything, let me know, i will be happy to come along for moral support
xxxx

If you want sweetie, I will do you an online tutorial, I'm already doing one for a friend, so you're welcome to join in with her. I'll be doing it through youtube, but set to private, so you'll have to find me and become a subscriber. I know how it fels to be a carer. It's hard to find the time and energy for yourself. Good luck. xxx
My name is Militsa on the youtube channel. If you need any other info to search it, just ask, I'm not that internet savvy.
xx

thank you so much everyone. your all giving me some fantastic advice.
thak you ever so much Mitzy, i will have a look on your youtube.
X