Chicago Burlesque Classes with Red Hot Annie

BEGINNER-FRIENDLY • ADULTS 18+ • NO EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

Your First Burlesque Class

Most students arrive feeling curious, excited and at least a little nervous.

That is completely normal.

Red Hot Annie guides each class through approachable movement, classic burlesque technique and playful confidence-building exercises. You will receive clear direction while still having room to discover your own personality and performance style.

A typical class may explore:

• Walking with intention
• Posing and transitions
• Musicality and rhythm
• Character and storytelling
• Stage presence
• Body awareness
• Audience connection
• Classic burlesque movement
• Confidence and self-expression

Every class is different, so you can attend once or return regularly without repeating the same experience.

Reserve your first Sunday class.

Who These Classes Are For

Chicago burlesque classes with Red Hot Annie are designed for adults of many backgrounds, bodies and experience levels.

You may feel at home here if you are:

• Completely new to burlesque
• Nervous about taking your first dance class
• Looking for a creative outlet
• Reconnecting with your confidence
• Developing stage presence
• An actor, musician or public speaker
• Returning to performance
• Interested in creating a burlesque act
• Seeking a joyful way to move
• Ready to feel more expressive in your own body

There is no single burlesque body, personality or starting point.

You are not expected to arrive confident.

You come to practice confidence.

Confidence, Performance and Play

Confidence

Practice taking up space, making intentional choices and allowing yourself to be seen without apologizing.

Performance

Develop musicality, presence, character, storytelling and a stronger relationship with an audience.

Play

Experiment with movement, imagination and expression in a supportive environment where there is no pressure to be perfect.

The skills developed in burlesque often extend far beyond the studio. Students frequently use them in public speaking, dating, creative work, leadership, performance and everyday life.

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What Students Say

“I had heard how great the experience would be, but my expectations were exceeded. Red Hot Annie made everyone feel uniquely recognized and more confident. There was zero judgment from anyone in the room, and I left every class feeling excited to come back.”

— Devon B.

“I was nervous before my first class, but everyone quickly felt comfortable. The atmosphere was supportive, welcoming, and genuinely fun. What surprised me most was how confident I felt by the end.”

— Megan G.

“Red Hot Annie was full of energy, positive, and incredibly encouraging. She made it easy for everyone to step outside their comfort zone and enjoy themselves. It was one of the most fun experiences I’ve had.”

— Bailey M.

What to Wear and Bring

Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely.

You may bring:

• Water
• Socks or dance shoes
• Optional heels
• A notebook
• Layers you can remove as you warm up

Heels are never required.

There is no required costume, dress code or level of glamour. Wear whatever helps you feel comfortable enough to participate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need dance experience?

No. Most students begin with little or no formal dance experience.

Can I attend only one class?

Yes. The Sunday Burlesque Confidence Class is designed as a complete drop-in experience.

You may attend once or return whenever you would like additional practice and inspiration.

Do I have to perform publicly?

No. Public performance is optional.

Some students eventually develop acts or pursue performance opportunities. Others attend entirely for confidence, creativity, movement and personal expression.

Is this a strip class?

No.

The class focuses on burlesque technique, confidence, movement, musicality, stage presence and theatrical expression. Some exercises may draw from the art of the tease, but nudity is not required.

Am I too old to begin burlesque?

No.

Burlesque celebrates individuality, experience, personality and creative expression. Adults begin at many different ages and stages of life.

Are heels required?

No. Heels are optional.

Is the class appropriate for complete beginners?

Yes. The Sunday class is the recommended starting point for first-time students.

Where is the class held?

Crafty Cats
3713 W Division Street
Chicago, Illinois

Always check the current class schedule before attending in case of a holiday, special workshop or schedule change.

Continue Your Burlesque Journey

Attend the Sunday Drop-In

The easiest place to begin.

Sundays, 10:30 AM–12:30 PM
Crafty Cats
$40

Reserve your spot.

Explore Current Classes

Review current classes, online experiences and private coaching availability.

View the Chicago burlesque class schedule.

Work Privately with Red Hot Annie

Private coaching is available for students developing an act, preparing for performance or seeking more individualized support.

Explore private coaching and classes with Red Hot Annie.

Book a Private Group Experience

Planning a birthday, bachelorette weekend, team experience or private gathering?

Vaudezilla and Red Hot Annie create private burlesque classes for groups throughout Chicago.

Explore Chicago bachelorette and private-group experiences.

See Where Burlesque Can Lead

Explore Vaudezilla’s original Chicago burlesque, cabaret and immersive productions.

Discover Chicago burlesque shows by Vaudezilla.

Reserve Your Place

Sunday Burlesque Confidence Class

Sundays
10:30 AM–12:30 PM

Crafty Cats
3713 W Division Street
Chicago, Illinois

$40 drop-in
Adults 18+
No experience required

Come as you are.

Leave feeling a little bolder.

RESERVE MY SPOT

Need to confirm the latest dates first? View the current Chicago burlesque class schedule.