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.
UPCOMING SESSIONS
FEBRUARY 2026 - SATURDAYS
Dates: February 7, 14, 21, 28
Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
MAY 2026 - SUNDAYS
Dates: May 2, 9, 16, 23
Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Location for both sessions:
Cell Block #9 — Rachel Riot’s home studio near NCSU in Raleigh, NC
(Exact address provided upon registration)
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:
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Dress Ta Kill
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Cherry Von Bomb
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Marley Mix
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Dahlia Vee
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Cherry Cha Cha
This rotation ensures a well-rounded, dynamic workshop experience.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
Every student receives a Raleigh Burlesque tote bag on Day 1 containing:
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The official Shimmy Seminar Handbook + Guided Journal
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A pair of pasties
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A pair of gloves
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A Raleigh School of Burlesque sticker
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A $25 certificate for a private choreography session with Cherry Cha Cha
(Regular rate $75; Shimmy students pay $50) -
Additional included benefits:
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Free use of Cell Block #9 rehearsal space during your session month
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Free access to the Raleigh Burlesque costume closet
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Free use of onsite crafting and costuming supplies
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Access to the RSOB library of burlesque books and DVDs
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50% off Raleigh Burlesque merch during the full month of your session
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Invitation to perform in the student recital (held 1–2 weeks after the final class)
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A one-hour post-recital Zoom session on “How to Get Booked and Join the Community”
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN
Across four weeks, students will learn:
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Foundational burlesque movement and musicality
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Choreography tools and act structure
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Classic burlesque skills and introductory techniques
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How to build, select, and modify costuming
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Character development and performance storytelling
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Hair and makeup fundamentals
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Backstage etiquette and industry expectations
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Recital preparation and confidence-building
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How to enter the burlesque community after graduation
Each class blends technique, guided exercises, hands-on practice, and one-on-one support.
RECITAL + POST RECITAL SUPPORT
Students are invited (but not required) to perform in a live recital within 1–2 weeks of the workshop’s final day. This performance opportunity allows you to debut your new solo act in a professional show environment.
Following the recital, students will attend a dedicated one-hour Zoom session covering:
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How to get booked
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How to connect with the local burlesque community
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How to continue improving as a performer
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Understanding kittenships, backstage etiquette, and professional norms
TUITION
$349/student
Shimmy Seminar Attendance & Refund Policy
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Payments & Deposits: All payments and deposits are non-refundable.
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Attendance: We strongly encourage zero absences. The Shimmy Seminar is a four-week intensive where we cover a great deal of material in a short time.
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Missed Classes: No refunds will be issued for non-attendance. Missed classes cannot be transferred, credited, or applied toward future sessions.
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Make-Ups: With a valid doctor’s note, we may offer a private make-up for one missed session only, if absolutely necessary.
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Transfers: If you wish to participate in a different session or month, you must re-register and pay the full registration fee again.
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Automatic Drop: Missing more than one class will result in automatic removal from the program. To re-enroll, you must pay in full for a future session.
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Why This Policy Exists: We are a very small business and our classes are intentionally small. Last-minute cancellations or absences affect not only our ability to operate but also the chemistry, trust, and group learning environment.
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Final Note: Please view your registration as a serious commitment — not just to yourself, but to your classmates and instructors. No refunds, no exceptions.
“The Shimmy Seminar is what gave me the confidence of making my “what if” into a reality. I’ve always performed my whole school career but lost a place to do it as an adult. Rachel and Raquel makes you prepared to walk on that stage and to do your thing with all the confidence, and cheering you on along with other classmates.”
- Marie la Femme
"The shimmy seminar not only gave me knowledge about the history and world of Burlesque,but also raised my confidence 100%. Rachel and Raquel bring sass and glam to their teaching. They are kind and inclusive. Highly recommend this class.”
-Connie Versace
“This year was an exceptional way for me to learn self love. Rachel Riot has been a good mentor in introducing me to the burlesque scene. The Shimmy Seminar was a great experience providing me with ideas, costuming, dance styles and burlesque etiquette. I had the opportunity to meet with Talented, smart and amazing people in the class. I enjoyed everything!!”
- Audrey Dos
“The Shimmy seminar was a wonderful experience! The opportunity to meet like-minded people, learn from seasoned professionals, and try new techniques in a safe environment has expanded my burlesque abilities and is something I’ll carry with me into my burlesque career in the future!”
- Sabrina Sapphire
Starts Feb 7, 2026
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Starts May 2, 2026
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