Search Results

A Raleigh Burlesque Signature Training Program (Est. 2011 — Newly Expanded for 2026) Step into your confidence, creativity, and authentic expression through the 4-Week Beginners Burlesque Intensive Workshop, Raleigh’s longest-running and most comprehensive burlesque training program. Whether you're brand new to dance or looking to explore the art of burlesque for the first time, this immersive workshop guides you from foundational movement to a fully developed solo act—all within a radically inclusive and supportive learning environment. Since 2011, hundreds of students have graduated from this program. For 2026, the curriculum has been fully updated with more individualized coaching, expanded resources, and instruction from multiple experts across the Raleigh Burlesque organization. ________________________ Instructor Team Each week features instruction from Rachel Riot plus one rotating guest instructor from our teaching faculty, bringing different specialties and perspectives into the classroom: Dress Ta Kill Cherry Von Bomb Marley Mix Dahlia Vee Cherry Cha Cha This rotation ensures a well-rounded, dynamic workshop experience. ________________________ What’s Included (Updated for 2026) Every student receives a Raleigh Burlesque tote bag on Day 1 containing: The official Shimmy Seminar Handbook + Guided Journal A pair of pasties A pair of gloves A Raleigh School of Burlesque sticker A $25 certificate for a private choreography session with Cherry Cha Cha (Regular rate $75; Shimmy students pay $50) Additional included benefits: Free use of Cell Block #9 rehearsal space during your session month Free access to the Raleigh Burlesque costume closet Free use of onsite crafting and costuming supplies Access to the RSOB library of burlesque books and DVDs 50% off Raleigh Burlesque merch during the full month of your session Invitation to perform in the student recital (held 1–2 weeks after the final class) A one-hour post-recital Zoom session on “How to Get Booked and Join the Community”

It’s not just what you take off—it’s how you take it off. Gloves and stockings are iconic elements of burlesque, but a truly captivating peel requires intention, control, and a deep understanding of timing. In this hands-on, collaborative workshop, you’ll learn multiple techniques for removing gloves and stockings in ways that are smooth, deliberate, and impossible to look away from. Join Dahlia Vee—known for her impressively clean and satisfying stocking peels—as she guides you through both foundational methods and creative variations. You’ll explore classic techniques for glove and stocking removal, then be encouraged to experiment, adapt, and discover what feels most natural and compelling in your own movement style. This is an active, participation-based class where you’ll practice in real time, receive guidance, and refine your technique in a supportive environment. Whether you prefer slow and sultry, playful and cheeky, or polished and precise, this class will help you elevate one of burlesque’s most essential skills. What to Expect: • Multiple techniques for glove and stocking removal • How to control pacing, tension, and audience focus • Hands-on practice in a collaborative, supportive space • Exploration of both classic and creative peel styles • Guidance on making your reveals intentional and impactful What to Bring: (Some items will be available to borrow.) • Folding or performance chair (highly recommended, not required) • Thigh-high stockings (2 pairs recommended: one pair of stay-ups (silicone grip stockings) and one pair without) • Elbow-length or opera-length gloves About the Instructor: Dahlia Vee is a prominent burlesque performer and instructor based in Raleigh, North Carolina. In 2013, she co-founded the Silk Stocking Sirens alongside Miss Rachel Riot and has performed at festivals across North Carolina and Massachusetts, including the Heavy Rebel Weekender Wiggle Room, Asheville Burlesque & Sideshow Festival, and The Great Burlesque Expo in Boston. She was crowned Queen of Improv at ABS Fest and named North Carolina’s Master of Improv at the 2019 BurlyPicks Regional Showcase. Known especially for her impressive stocking peels, Dahlia blends technical precision with playful creativity in both her performances and her teaching. She produces annual Valentine’s Day Dinner & a Show experiences in in Raleigh and currently teaches at the Raleigh School of Burlesque. Additional Info: • Pre-registration required • All levels welcome

Saturday, May 23, 2026 | 2:00–3:00 PM EST (1 PM CST | 12 PM MST | 11 AM PST) Virtual via Google Meet $25 Ready to get on stage… consistently? Whether you’re brand new to burlesque or looking to level up your booking game, this class pulls back the curtain on how performers actually get booked—and stay booked. No gatekeeping, no guesswork. Just real, actionable strategies from someone who’s been doing this for nearly two decades. Join Rachel Riot—Headmistress of the Raleigh School of Burlesque and a 19-year burlesque veteran who has performed hundreds of times across the U.S.—for a deep dive into the business side of burlesque. From applications to outreach, branding to booking etiquette, this class is designed to give you the tools and confidence to start securing consistent performance opportunities. We’ll cover where to find shows and festivals, how to submit strong applications, and what producers are actually looking for when they’re casting. You’ll also learn how to create a polished bio and press kit, what photos and videos you need (and what to avoid), and how to professionally reach out to producers you want to work with. You’ll walk away with clear next steps—and a resource-packed PDF to support your journey long after class ends. This is the information performers wish they had from day one. ✨ Get visible. Get confident. Get booked. What to Expect: • Where to find burlesque shows and festivals to apply to • How to fill out applications (with real do’s and don’ts) • Building a strong bio and professional press pack • What photos and videos you actually need • How to reach out to producers and get noticed • Insider tips from a working performer and producer What to Bring: • Notebook or device for notes • Any existing bio, photos, or materials (optional) • Questions—come ready to learn Additional Info: • Virtual class held on Google Meet • Space is limited to 15 participants • Pre-registration required

A Raleigh Burlesque Signature Training Program (Est. 2011 — Newly Expanded for 2026) Step into your confidence, creativity, and authentic expression through the 4-Week Beginners Burlesque Intensive Workshop, Raleigh’s longest-running and most comprehensive burlesque training program. Whether you're brand new to dance or looking to explore the art of burlesque for the first time, this immersive workshop guides you from foundational movement to a fully developed solo act—all within a radically inclusive and supportive learning environment. Since 2011, hundreds of students have graduated from this program. For 2026, the curriculum has been fully updated with more individualized coaching, expanded resources, and instruction from multiple experts across the Raleigh Burlesque organization. ________________________ Instructor Team Each week features instruction from Rachel Riot plus one rotating guest instructor from our teaching faculty, bringing different specialties and perspectives into the classroom: Dress Ta Kill Cherry Von Bomb Marley Mix Dahlia Vee Cherry Cha Cha This rotation ensures a well-rounded, dynamic workshop experience. ________________________ What’s Included (Updated for 2026) Every student receives a Raleigh Burlesque tote bag on Day 1 containing: The official Shimmy Seminar Handbook + Guided Journal A pair of pasties A pair of gloves A Raleigh School of Burlesque sticker A $25 certificate for a private choreography session with Cherry Cha Cha (Regular rate $75; Shimmy students pay $50) Additional included benefits: Free use of Cell Block #9 rehearsal space during your session month Free access to the Raleigh Burlesque costume closet Free use of onsite crafting and costuming supplies Access to the RSOB library of burlesque books and DVDs 50% off Raleigh Burlesque merch during the full month of your session Invitation to perform in the student recital (held 1–2 weeks after the final class) A one-hour post-recital Zoom session on “How to Get Booked and Join the Community”

A Raleigh Burlesque Signature Training Program (Est. 2011 — Newly Expanded for 2026) Step into your confidence, creativity, and authentic expression through the 4-Week Beginners Burlesque Intensive Workshop, Raleigh’s longest-running and most comprehensive burlesque training program. Whether you're brand new to dance or looking to explore the art of burlesque for the first time, this immersive workshop guides you from foundational movement to a fully developed solo act—all within a radically inclusive and supportive learning environment. Since 2011, hundreds of students have graduated from this program. For 2026, the curriculum has been fully updated with more individualized coaching, expanded resources, and instruction from multiple experts across the Raleigh Burlesque organization. ________________________ Instructor Team Each week features instruction from Rachel Riot plus one rotating guest instructor from our teaching faculty, bringing different specialties and perspectives into the classroom: Dress Ta Kill Cherry Von Bomb Marley Mix Dahlia Vee Cherry Cha Cha This rotation ensures a well-rounded, dynamic workshop experience. ________________________ What’s Included (Updated for 2026) Every student receives a Raleigh Burlesque tote bag on Day 1 containing: The official Shimmy Seminar Handbook + Guided Journal A pair of pasties A pair of gloves A Raleigh School of Burlesque sticker A $25 certificate for a private choreography session with Cherry Cha Cha (Regular rate $75; Shimmy students pay $50) Additional included benefits: Free use of Cell Block #9 rehearsal space during your session month Free access to the Raleigh Burlesque costume closet Free use of onsite crafting and costuming supplies Access to the RSOB library of burlesque books and DVDs 50% off Raleigh Burlesque merch during the full month of your session Invitation to perform in the student recital (held 1–2 weeks after the final class) A one-hour post-recital Zoom session on “How to Get Booked and Join the Community”

Big feathers. Bigger drama. Feather fans are one of the most iconic and visually stunning elements of classic burlesque—but they’re also one of the most challenging to master. In this beginner-friendly workshop, you’ll learn how to handle, move, and command feather fans with confidence, control, and showgirl flair. Join Miss Rachel Riot as she guides you through the fundamentals of fan dancing, from proper hand holds and fan manipulation to understanding the differences in fan construction, staves, and feather types. Because no two fans are exactly alike, you’ll also learn how weight, balance, and size impact your movement—and why practicing with your own fans is key. You’ll explore classic showgirl poses, elegant transitions, and foundational movements before putting it all together in a short choreographed sequence designed to help you apply what you’ve learned in a supportive, low-pressure environment. Whether you’re dreaming of full showgirl fantasy or simply want to add a new skill to your burlesque toolkit, this class will give you a strong, confident starting point. What to Expect: • Introduction to feather fan handling and control • Different hand holds and manipulation techniques • Overview of fan construction (staves, feathers, weight, and balance) • Classic showgirl poses and movements • A short choreographed sequence to practice your skills What to Bring: • Your own feather fans (strongly recommended) • Comfortable clothing you can move in A limited number of fan sets will be available to rent for $10 (first come, first served). Because all fans vary in weight and feel, it is highly recommended to practice with the fans you plan to perform with whenever possible. About the Instructor: Miss Rachel Riot is an award-winning burlesque performer, producer, and instructor with nearly two decades of experience. Known for her glamorous stage presence, sharp instruction, and deep knowledge of classic burlesque technique, she is the founder and headmistress of the Raleigh School of Burlesque. Rachel has mentored hundreds of students through her signature Shimmy Seminar program and is celebrated for her ability to break down complex movement into accessible, empowering instruction for performers of all levels. Additional Info: • Space is limited to 8 participants • Pre-registration required • Beginner-friendly / all levels welcome