What is burlesque?
Simply put, burlesque is a form of dance that includes removal of clothing. It is an age old art form rooted in sex work that started in the early 20th century in the USA, and has spread across the world since then! For a longer history of burlesque and to read more, we recommend visiting the website of the world’s only burlesque museum, the Burlesque Hall of Fame.
Why should I do burlesque?
There are so many reasons to take a burlesque class! We’re here to help you move your body in a positive way, generate endorphins, and get in touch with the way that your body moves in space. We are an alternative to fitness and training focused forms of dance, and here to help you feel good and have fun.
Do I have to pre enroll in classes?
Please enroll in our classes before coming on our online booking platform. This allows us to know how many people are in attendance and make sure we are not overbooked.
I’ve never danced or done burlesque before, can I join classes?
Absolutely! Burlesque is the perfect form of dance for those without any experience. Our Beginner’s Burlesque workshops on Saturdays are the perfect place to start your journey with burlesque, and our drop in classes can be adjusted to all levels of experience. Read each class description here to see which suits you best.
What class level is right for me?
If you have no burlesque experience we recommend starting with our Beginner’s Burlesque Saturday workshops, then moving on to our drop in classes with performance opportunities.
I want to join classes but I don’t want to perform or take my clothes off, can I come?
Of course! All of our classes have performance opportunities, but not requirements. While we do teach striptease in class, there is no nudity required during our classes in the studio.
Do I have to come to all weeks of a rotation if I want to perform?
You don’t, but your instructor is at will to determine if you are prepared to perform your group or solo routine in the Shimmy Shake Show.
What should I wear/bring?
Please check the specific description of the class or workshop you’re attending for
any special items to bring to that class. Bring your own water or drink of choice. No food please. You can wear dance shoes if you are comfortable in heels, otherwise bare feet or socks.
You should wear comfortable clothing to move in such as dance wear or sportswear for most classes, knee pads are always recommended for classes that include floorwork. Feel free to bring or wear anything fabulous & burlesque that you might have also!
I want to be on stage! Do you have performance opportunities?
Of course! The Shimmy Shake Show is our student showcase, held 3-4 times a year in front of a welcoming audience of friends and burlesque fans. If you want to perform in a group it’s best to attend all classes of any given rotation, if you want to perform solo then you should explore our Act Creation course. We also have performance opportunities at other shows in the burlesque industry in Berlin for our longer term students.
Who can do burlesque? Is it only for women?
Burlesque really is for any body (over 18!). We do not discriminate our students on basis of age (18+), gender, body type, race, or any other factors.
Where are classes held?
BERLIN
Imago Tanzstudio Straßmannstraße 18, 10249 Berlin
imago-tanzstudio.de
(Ring Bell ‘Imago Tanzstudio’ at the House Door at Nr.18. We will buzz you in. Studio is on the ground floor, Left.)
HAMBURG
La Yumba Kastanienallee 9, 20359 Hamburg
layumba-tangohamburg.de/
(Ring Bell ‘La Yumba’ at the House Door at Nr.9. We will buzz you in. Studio is on the 1st
Floor)
Do you do private lessons?
Yes! If you can’t make our weekly classes or Act Creation, or if you would like more specialized instruction, all of our teachers are available for private tuition. Email us at shimmyshakeberlin@gmail.com for more info.
Can I book a bachelorette party?
Yes! We would be happy to help you celebrate your special day with burlesque. You can view our bachelorette packages here.
How much do bachelorette parties cost?
That depends on a few things! You can view our packages here and send us an inquiry.
Can I book you or your instructors for my private event?
Yes! We love private events, whether a birthday party, corporate function, or fun night out! Email us at shimmyshakeberlin@gmail.com for more information!
Can I book a burlesque themed photoshoot with you?
Yes! We work with a wide array of local photographers for a fun pinup or burlesque inspired photoshoot. Email us for more information.