Dive into the magical world of queerlesque! Brought to you by the team behind Oxford's biggest and best-loved cabaret OxPHWOARd, and creators of The Phwoar Next Door in Didcot, you can have a taste of the limelight with this introductory lesson.

This intro to queerlesque is for everyone (18+), including all body types, gender expressions, and levels of experience.

We will be looking at the fundamentals of classic burlesque and turning them on their head as we play around with all the different ways we can be sexy, silly, or just plain strange on stage. This includes the art of tease, bumps ‘n’ grinds, costume removal, musicality, physicality and characterisation.

You'll be encouraged to experiment with a stage persona, whether you're a comedy clown, a baddie, a bodacious babe, or a gender goblin. Ultimately we will be helping you to bring out the most YOU version of queerlesque.

The class will finish with learning a short routine.

No nudity is required for this class.

FAQ

What is queerlesque?

Queerlesque is a form of burlesque that breaks traditions and expectations. Whereas classic burlesque tends to lean towards embracing femininity to feel empowered, queerlesque is far more broad in scope. It’s all about playing with and subverting expectations.

What should I wear?

Wear something that you are comfortable in and you can move in. You're also welcome to dress up a little if it helps you feel like the hot and sexy person you are!

You should bring a couple of items of clothing or accessories you feel comfortable removing in front of others. Think gloves, ties, jackets (with zippers, poppers, or belts - buttons may be too tricky), dressing gowns, belts, shirts with poppers, scarves, waistcoats, boas, or hats. Don't be afraid to get creative and feel free to message us if you have any questions!

Do I need to know how to dance?

Of course not! This class is highly adaptable so you can tailor the movement to what you are comfortable with. We won't be using counts or lefts and rights.

Who is teaching the class?

The class will be taught by OxPHWOARd babes Ginger Tart (they/she) and Frisky Whispers (he/him). Ginger has 8 years of burlesque experience, including performing at the Hebden Bridge Burlesque Festival, founding OxPHWOARd and the Oxfordshire Drag Collective, and bringing their own brand of fantastically bizarre queerlesque to stages internationally. Frisky has five years experience, including performing at Liverpool Burlesque Festival and winning Judges Choice at Spare Rib Superstar 2019.

Do I need to be queer to attend?

Not at all, but you need to respect that this is a space by and for queer people. Avoid assuming anything about a person’s gender or sexuality. Here is a handy guide on how to be an ally to trans and gender non-conforming people: https://www.glaad.org/transgender/allies