Want to try your hand at Burlesque? Join Maison Burlesque headmistress Poppy Cherry in a fun one hour introductory class! Explore the Art of The Tease & learn the classic art of bump and grind, shimmies and a little cheeky glove peel. Find out more about the classes on offer at Maison Burlesque. No experience necessary! Just wear something comfy you can move in. Dance or low heels helpful but not essential. We currently have two dates to choose from: Monday 12th March, 7.30pm-8.30pm Class cost: $20 for 1 hour class Includes 1 x glass of bubbly on arrival. NOTE: All participants also receive a $15 booking credit towards your next course with us - so its practically free! ;) Bookings Essential: http://www.maisonburlesque.com.au/class-enrolments If you have any questions please don't hesitate to contact us at info@maisonburlesque.com.au

A Fantasy Photoshoot Special.

Be transformed into a Film Noir Femme Fatale at a budget price in this one day only photoshoot special. Open to anyone, no experience required!

You will be greeted with a glass of bubbly on arrival, and be whisked away express hair and makeup styling by the expert team at Bouffant Delacroix, before receiving styling and posing advice and then your private photoshoot with 42nd Photography.

Bring your own costume or ask us about lingerie loan from the incredible collection of My Lingerie Addiction.

Your package price of just $295 includes:

- 30min hair style, & 30min makeup style

- posing and styling advice

- optional wardrobe loan (*additional costs apply)

- 30min individual photoshoot

- 1 fully concepted Fantasy edit in Film Noir / Sin City style

BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL!

CONTACT US NOW

VISIT THE VAMP STUDIO WEBSITE

It's finally happening! Boylesque will be arriving at Maison Burlesque from February 20th and we can't wait!

To kick things off we will be running a 4 week 'Intro to Boylesque' course with the one and only Egson Ham (Mr Boylesque Australia 2015), followed by an 8 week course in Term 2.

In this course we’ll be covering the foundational elements of Boylesque! Explore the concept of 'what is Boylesque' whilst discovering the art of tease & performance techniques such as stage presence, improvisation, characterisation, 'show making' and the key sexy burlesque dance moves you need to know to impress that special lady (or boy) and then some!

No prior experience required! As in, absolutely ZERO! Everyone is welcome.

This course does not involve learning a routine to perform at the end of term showcase, however all students enrolled in this course will receive a complimentary ticket to attend!

4 Week Intro to Boylesque course:

Date: Tuesdays 6.15pm from February 20th

Duration: 4 weeks

Cost: $95

8 Week Boylesque course:

Date: Tuesdays 6.15pm from March 27th

Duration: 8 weeks

Cost: $180

Spots are already filling up quickly! BOOK HERE

Egson Ham photographed by 42nd St Photography

You may have seen the word TECH written next to some of our course description and thought "what does that even mean?!" Well we're here to tell you ALL about them, how they're different from our other classes and why you should be doing them!

What's a Tech Class?

TECH, short for Technique, are the 8 week courses we offer at Maison Burlesque that focus on developing and fine tuning specific areas of performance skills.

Rather than focusing on a specific style of dance or burlesque they will help develop skills such as flexibility, strength, floor work & characterisation/acting skills... Sounds pretty good right? No dance choreography is taught in a tech class and hence these classes don't perform at the end of term showcase.

Whilst Tech classes can absolutely be taken as an individual course, we have timetabled them across the week so students are able to double-up and take both a tech class & a showcase class on the same night. PLUS - Multi-class discounts! If you're already booked into a course & you book into a Tech class it's only $145 for the whole 8 weeks! Ummmm... SCORE!

Tech Classes On Offer!

Booty Sweat with Miss Jane Doe

Are you ready to get plumped up with the beats as they jive your behind to the rhythmic grind of BOOTY SWEAT!?

Rip out your best one piece to dance, stretch, spin and flex your butt into shape like you want that mirror to crack under pressure!

Nothing says “get wet” like BOOTY SWEAT.

Term 1 Class Times: Tuesdays 5pm from January 23rd

Burly Flex with Velma Vouloir

This class is all about FLEX! Splits, high kicks, back bends & perfect posture and core strength are the name of the game in this class. Learn how to develop your flexibility safely with a combination of passive & dynamic exercises, dance-based conditioning and partner stretching. This class will not only improve your flexibility, but will improve your body awareness, control, poise & posture too. Can't touch your toes (or knees?) Doesn't matter! Zero flexibility or prior experience needed.

Term 1 Class Times:

Mondays 7.30pm from January 22nd

Tuesdays 7.30pm from Janaury 23rd

Wednesdays 1.15pm from January 24th

Cali-floor-nication with Domino De Jour

Califloornication is a fitness based floor work class, focusing on core strength and sexy strengthening moves.

Self proclaimed 'Queen of the 90s' Domino de Jour will take you through an hour of low and slow floor work, ab exercises and grinds to rock strictly from 1990-1999.

Perfect for building strength or adding some sexy moves to your next routine.

Term 1 Class Times: Thursdays 7.30pm from January 25th

Get In Character with Willow J

Want to step into someone else's shoes? Ever wondered how actors transform into a character? Do you want to learn how to build a character and bring it to life through you? If so then this tech class is for you!

Through acting and performance techniques students will develop a short solo piece, no longer than 2 minutes each, to present to the class on the last week. The characters can be presented through monologue, dance, movement or any creative way that inspires you! This course is perfect for students with a keen interest in acting and character building. All levels welcome!

Term 1 Times: 7.30pm Wednesdays from January 24th

Who Are They Suitable For?

Short answer... EVERYONE! All Technique class are open level, meaning it doesn't matter if you have zero dance/fitness/performance experience or you're already part of the Maison furniture - Everyone will benefit. Some extra reasons to consider adding a Tech class into your schedule are:

You want to take your burlesque to the next level & add some extra wow factor to your performingYou're currently working towards a solo performance and would like to build your technique/strength/acting skillsYou want to add some extra fitness into your week but the idea of 'normal' exercise makes you want to cry... We understand!You want to attend multiple classes but don't necessarily want to have too many showcase routines to think about

Term 1 Start Next Week! BOOK YOUR CLASSES HERE

If you have any questions about Tech classes send us an email at info@maisonburlesque.com.au

The face you make when you get a Maison Burlesque gift certificate for Christmas!

If you have a loved one who loves all things burlesque then we promise EVERYTHING on this list will be an absolute winner! We've put a collection of our most loved gift ideas for all budgets!

💝 The Gift of Glamour & Tease - A Gift Certificate! 💝

Maison Burlesque

You really can't go wrong here. Our Maison Burlesque gift certificates can be issued for any amount over $20 and can used for ALL our services including courses, workshops & everything in the online shop!

The Vamp Studio

For those that dream of being a Gil Elvgren model! Give the gift of GLAMOUR & treat your darling to a gorgeous pin up photoshoot! They'll be treated to an opulent day of professional hair and make up styling, wardrobe, bubbles & refreshments and of course a fully directed photoshoot and edited images. Gift certificates can be for any amount over $20, or for a specific package amount.

Contact us at vamp@maisonburlesque.com.au for our package information & pricing or visit www.thevampstudio.com.au to view our portfolio.

Our Gift Certificates are valid for both Maison Burlesque AND The Vamp Studio - so you don't have to choose!

Shipping For Christmas!

Physical Vouchers can be purchased up until 10am Thursday December 21st with express postOnline vouchers can be purchased up until 9pm Sunday December 24th

Purchase your Gift Certificate HERE or email us at info@maisonburlesque.com.au

Treat yourself to a photography experience with The Vamp Studio!

🚢 A Ticket To The Burlesque Showboat! 🚢

Ahoy me darlings! Who doesn't love being treated to a burlesque show as you cruise along the waterfront with a cocktail in hand. The Burlesque Showboat runs twice a month aboard the Lady Cutler Melbourne and features performances from some of Australia's finest burlesque artists.

You can purchase any number of tickets as a gift certificate that will be give your loved one entry to ANY of our 2018 shows. Tickets are $69 and include:

A 3.5 hour cruise (includes boarding and disembarking time)A live burlesque cabaret show on the upper deck and a DJ on main deck to dance the night away!One glass of complimentary champagne on arrival. Additional drinks can be purchased at the main bar or guests can take advantage of our $24 cocktail package available online.Substantial hot and cold canapés served throughout the cruise.

Image by 3 Fates Media

🎄 Showgirl Stocking Fillers 🎄

Need that perfect little extra present for someone? Some ideas below!

Maison Burlesque Tote Bag - A totes awesome tote bag to carry your sparkly things to and from home with. Fill it with chocolates, champagne, and maybe even a kitten for the BEST christmas present ever!

Pastie Tape - That thing that all burly babes can never have too much of! Available in strips and two sizes of rolls.

Pasties - Give the gift of some hand crafted Poppys Pasties (they might just become Christmas Days best party trick)

Satin Gloves - Gorgeously luxe & stretchy! A burly essential that's available in 13 colours

Totes awesome tote bag!

Wishing you all a glamorous, safe & FUN silly season!

Love Maison Burlesque xx

Part 1950s bombshell, part 1980s hair-rock groupie... She's the platinum blonde with the itty bitty waist and the huge personality! We all know and adore Miss Domino De Jour as one of our amazing burlesque teachers at Maison Burlesque, but we thought we'd get to know her a little better!

How did you come into the burlesque world?

I had been a dancer all my life, & after taking a break for some personal stuff from a long stint as a competitive ballroom dancer I was looking for something to ease myself back into dancing. I had seen burlesque years before and to be quite honest I had mixed feelings on it... I liked all things vintage but really enjoyed the grit of modern day stripping over some of the ‘tamer’ classic burlesque I had seen. The two performers who stood out for me were Imogen Kelly and Gypsy Wood... I don’t think I would have given it a try if I hadn’t seen them. Anyhow, I started classes at a now closed school and very quickly decided that I was not one for group routines and I wanted to be a solo performer. I started taking private lessons with some local performers I knew and developed my first solo acts! I saw more and more burlesque and did lots of research. The more I delved the more I realised how interconnected it was with things I loved and that it wasn't all eBay corsets and tiny hats after all ;)

How would you describe your performing style? Has it evolved over time?

Fearless, unapologetic, gritty, energetic, or as my tagline says .. “ one hell of a hangover”. I have always had a fairly energetic, cheeky style in both classic and neo routines, but to be honest it's in the last 18 months that I’ve really started to be happy with the acts I’m creating and feel they are matching my personality both on and off stage. These days even my classic acts have become a lot grittier and the sense of reckless abandon is carried though. I have a lot more things using dirty 80s rock again! I think that we all evolve as performers as we learn more and it’s a constant shift, currently I’m reworking one of my first neo routines as I really love the music and want to make it a stronger act as it’s so much fun to perform.

What's the funniest things that has ever happened to you during a performance or in class?

Hmm my most of my classes are pretty funny, I don’t really have a filter and tell it like it is a lot which makes for some great moments... Also, I accidentally whacked a student in the face last week demonstrating floor work, that was hilarious. ( Note: SHE IS FINE )

How did you decide upon your burlesque/performer name?

Domino is the only Bond girl name to be used twice , and De Jour is because I love Billie Piper in Secret Diary of Call Girl and her characters name is ‘ Belle de Jour”. Finding a Bond related name was more important to me... For a while I was almost going to be Martha Moneypenny due to my other main love Martha Stewart, but I’m very happy I went with Domino!

What advice do you have for someone wanting to start burlesque?

Draw your inspiration from everywhere! Everything has a purpose and can inspire you. I speak a lot about terrible 90s comedies in my workshops because there are so many influences I get from everywhere and the theatrical techniques (yes there’s technique in Happy Gilmore) are really easily translated to stage for burlesque. Also when you are creating a solo routine, whatever your idea is , simplify it by at least 70 percent! It's a trap that even I still fall into. Making routines overly complicated is main thing I notice about new performers, you shouldn’t need a million props or to explain your routine with a prologue. Taking stuff back to basics makes you a better performer in the long run.

Describe your average Saturday night?

I'm usually working! But sometimes after work you can find me at some rock n roll dive bar flipping my hair in front of any glam metal boy I can find until sometime on Sunday morning... And always wearing something that would make Kelly Bundy proud! Or sometimes I go to the gym and stay at home.

Image by Nadia De Sensi

Tell us a bit more about your non-performer self!

Monday to Friday I spend most of my time at my day job, or at the gym. I focus highly on my fitness and diet throughout the week so I can have fun on the weekend. Most of my routines are fairly physical... and you can’t tassel twirl for 2 mins straight if you don’t do some cardio once in a while. If I’m not lifting weights I’m at home with my two dogs cooking something delicious, I’m a bit of a foodie and really into American BBQ.

Have you faced any challenges in starting burlesque or developing your burlesque career?

I started when there was a handful of newbies, I was really fortunate that Burlesque Bar had its Debut Darlings night for newcomers and for the first year or so there was quite a few opportunities for non-established performers. I think the biggest challenge for me has always been getting shows after that. I’m not a hustler by nature, I’m way too laid back and am terrible at approaching people for gigs. I don’t want to be seen as pushy or rude and I know that’s my downfall sometimes. Putting yourself out there is hard!

Tell us a bit about your classes?

Rock, Sweat & Rears... It's fitness, burlesque and trashy 80s and 90s rock all rolled into one! Cali-floornication is a fitness based class that focuses on floorwork technique... it burns... Being able to teach burlesque to music that I love listening to as well as adding a high fitness element just makes my week. I won’t lie, I do get a lot of joy out of seeing my students almost collapse after multiple sets of squats and stripper push-ups but we are building strength of body and mind...

By the end of the 8 weeks I have a class of fearless women who really get out there and are unstoppable rock and roll goddesses on stage. That’s the end goal, having students come off stage and feel energised and like they want to get back up there and do it again, and if people can take even 10% back into their day to day life then I’ve done my job!

Xx

Domino will be teaching the following classes in Term 1:

Thursday 6.15pm: Burlesque Fun-damentals (Beginners)

Thursday 7.30pm: Cali-floor-nication (TECH - All Levels)

Thursday 8.45pm: Rock, Sweat & Rears (All Levels)

To view the Term 1 timetable and enrol for classes head to www.maisonburlesque.com.au/class-enrolments

A HUGE congratulations to 7 Maison Burlesque alumni who have been selected to compete for the title of 'Burlesque Idol Melbourne' in February next year! These ladies will be gracing the stage, showcasing their signature styles of burlesque.

BOO LOUISE

HAVEN NOIR

MARINA DYNAMITE

MELODY MUNRO

O'NYX

QUEEN BEA

VELMA VOULOIR

The competition will be touring nationally, and the Melbourne heat will be at Howler, Brunswick on February 15th! If you would like to come along for a brilliant night of burlesque you can get tickets here: http://www.moshtix.com.au/v2/event/burlesque-idol-australia/100035

Want to know more about the competition? Visit their website HERE

We can't wait!

Love Maison Burlesque Xx

Did you see Maison Burlesque in the Sunday Herald Sun yesterday? We were paid a visit by the Herald Sun team a little while ago to chat all things burlesque including its origins, what we get up to in classes and our students that come from all walks of life to shimmy and socialise at our little studio!

Image by Alex Coppel

Image by Alex Coppel

The article featured Maison Burlesque Head-mistress Poppy Cherry as well as a few of our divine students! Don't they look fabulous!

Read the online version of the article HERE

Image via Instagram by @frenchieholiday

Love Maison Burlesque Xx

🎁 💕 You heard right! We want to say thank you to all our amazing students by offering you a discount when you book multiple 8 week courses in the same term! 💕 🎁

Book in for one 8 week course and receive a $10 discount for each additional course you book within the same term... ie: book 2 courses and receive a total of $10 discount, book 3 courses and receive a total of $20 discount etc.

How To Book:

Option 1: Contact us via email at info@maisonburlesque.com.au to arrange discounted payment via bank transfer or credit card.

and pay full price, then we will arrange a credit to be put on your account that you can use towards any future bookings!

Don't forget, the discount still applies for all students booking using deposit plans too! If you would like to arrange a $75 deposit to book a spot in any 8 week course get in touch!

Love Maison Burlesque Xx

Co-director, events wizard and all round bombshell (although she's not always one for the spotlight), we thought we'd let our burly family learn a little more about the other half of Maison Burlesque...LOLLY!

So for those that don't know you, tell about yourself and your role as co-director of Maison Burlesque.

Most students don't know me, but Maison is my second home! So I predominantly take care of the events and hospitality side of the business that runs mostly on weekends. After 22 years working in the hospitality industry and being terrified of a stage and spotlight (whilst sober anyway!) I tend to lurk in the kitchen and prepare canapés most of the time...I also handle hens party bookings in the organisational stages. I deal with some super organised bridesmaids who book 18 months in advance and some manic ones. Its pretty funny some days, I'll get a maid of honour call me on a Thursday in a tizz because she needs to organise a hens party in two days.. we always make it happen!

Image by Bronwyn Terry

Tell us a bit about the first time you encountered burlesque.

So, my introduction to burlesque was a pretty weird one.. I actually opened the Burlesque Bar at the (bloody naive) age of 27 without even a thought that we should have burlesque entertainment, der! I just liked the pretty red velvet and chandeliers look and thought, "Hm, it's quite 'burlesquey', we shall call it "Burlesque Bar"! Then people started coming in and asking when we were running shows so we had to pull our fingers out! My business partner at the time Dave and I went to a show on Chapel street (one of the only shows happening at the time), called Crystal Burlesque and spoke to the gorgeous Rosie Rabbit who produced, and performed in the show. She ended up being one of the first ever performers on our stage! I honestly don't remember the act, I think I was so busy freaking out that we had a full house and not enough glasses for everyone that I missed the whole thing! The rest as they say is history.

How did the idea of Maison Burlesque occur?

When we sold Burlesque Bar in November 2013 I thought my burlesque days were over, but the thought of going back and managing another restaurant made me want to stab myself in the face with a fork.. I remember looking at my Burlesque Bar email, which I had decided to keep open for the warm fuzzy feelings, and saw several requests for hens party services and thought, "there's a business in this"... So I contacted the one person who I thought was perfect to take on a little side business, the wonderful Miss Poppy Cherry, and BOOM! We were off! Literally a month later we had signed a lease on our first studio and named it Maison Burlesque, and here we are 4 years later with three studios, dance classes, functions & photography sessions & this incredible little community.

What do you love to do with your time when you're not at Maison?

I also run an accommodation business which can keep me pretty busy, managing guests, cleaners and admin etc. But what I LOVE to do with my time...

Drink red wine.

Gym.

Long walks.

Play dodgeball.

Interior design.

Travel.

Dinner with friends.

Get down the coast, I love the beach and sun!

Image by Rachael Fogarty (Matchless Snapshots)

Tell us a bit about a typical Saturday for you.

The morning is when I double check we have everything we need for that evening and do any shopping that needs to be done. Then in the afternoon I'll head to Maison and start prepping food, shaking cocktails, making sure the studios are clean and set up, and co-ordinating topless waiters, hostesses, performers and male strippers. It's an interesting job! There is no such thing as typical round here, it can be a 3 hour day or a 16 hour day! If I have anything left in the tank, I'll catch up with some friends after work... I'm usually pretty wrecked though!

What advice do you have for people wanting to delve into the burlesque industry

Watch, learn, listen and do classes. Do classes with lots of different performers and try to work out what you particular style is going to be, then hone in on that, research the style and seek mentoring from a teacher/performer who has skills in that particular style. But find your own thing, originality is so important to stand out!

Where would you like to see the industry heading from now and into the future

The industry seems to peak and trough every couple of years. I love seeing the growth in student registrations, it means we are doing something right and that women are really enjoying getting out there and being proud of their bodies and art form. I really hope it continues to grow and we see some truly great performers come through the ranks! Its exciting!

Whats the best thing you love about your job?

All the money...said NO ONE in the burlesque industry ever, haha! Our job is definitely a labour of love, and honestly the sense of community we have created here at Maison Burlesque and Burlesque Bar is what makes it all worth while. It really feels like a family and I love seeing feedback from hens and students about how much they are enjoying what we offer, what it has done for their self confidence and their comments about body image. It's really inspiring and heart warming, and it makes you realise you're on the right track!

Give us a random/fun fact about yourself!

Ooo here you go!

1. Burlesque Bar won "Best Strip Club" at the Eros Shine (sex industry) awards 2011.

2. I once featured in FHM Asia (For Him Magazine). The whole double page spread was written in Chinese and to this day I have no idea what it says! (Pic of article attached- if anyone can translate it?)

Xx

Blonde Bombshell, Mother Hen, Rum Fiend & Fan-Weilding Fantasy... She's the co-owner of this little wonderspace we call Maison Burlesque as well as being a much loved performer, instructor, MC, producer, stylist, pastie maker & cat-mum. We had a little chat to her about all things burlesque!

Image by 42nd St Photography

Tell us when and how you first discovered burlesque? What were your initial thoughts/feelings?

I can actually remember quite vividly... Dom (my partner) and I were in early days of dating and we decided to go see a show at the Spiegeltent - a burlesque show called "Tarnished" featuring Imogen Kelly. It was love at first sight (the show I mean, Dom was a grower but don't worry he's a keeper). Imogen Kelly was then and still remains my ultimate girl crush in burlesque (if you don't know her, youtube her, STAT!). I remember being captivated and realising I had found what I wanted to do with my life! 11 years later here I am... And I have been lucky enough to perform with Imogen several times now... *fangirling and crushing hard*

How would you describe your unique style? Has it always been like that?

Oh I'm terrible at describing myself! But I'll give it a shot! My style is generally pretty playful and lighthearted (I certainly never take myself seriously on stage!), a mix of classic showgirliness and crazy characters, and I love a good bit of swampy music I can move my hips to too! And I have been known to shimmy so hard my pasties fly off, so there is that... My new tagline says: Take one part rum floozy and two parts cheesecake, add a dash of sauce, give it a fierce shake and grind and you have Poppy Cherry in an hourglass!

What's the funniest things that has ever happened to you during a performance?

I still think the funniest moment was during a performance in Adelaide, the zipper on my overbust corset got completely stuck (as in, ate up a bunch of fabric and wasn't going anywhere and had to be cut off with scissors after I got off stage). This meant I had to improv the entire rest act with a faulty corset, including somehow getting my bra off from underneath the corset and pulling my boobs up in some weird fashion so I could still tassel twirl... It was a bit of a hot mess! And then the review of the show said (and I quote) "Poppy Cherry was another standout, with her playfully manufactured wardrobe malfunction creating a fun and engaging experience for the audience." Little did they know...

How did you decide upon your burlesque/performer name?

You know, I don't remember! I just remember spending a realllllly long time thinking about names until something stuck. And it didn't even stick at first, I didn't like the name Poppy Cherry but then kind of warmed to it...

What advice do you have for someone wanting to start burlesque?

Do it! It can be anything from a bit of fun to downright life changing! Learn all the things, see all the shows, meet likeminded weirdos and enjoy the process! And don't take yourself too seriously ;)

In terms of wanting to start as a soloist, well that's a whole other ballgame we can go into another time... x

Image by 42nd St Photography

Describe your average Saturday night?

Oh there is no average! Saturday daytimes are for doing computer work, cleaning the studio and prepping for the evening's events... In the evening I might be teaching workshops and performing for hens parties, or I could be hosting or performing in a show, or if I'm lucky I might keep the evening free for quiet cocktails at home with my man and my 3 pussies...

Tell us a bit more about your non-performer self! What do you do? What do you love doing/eating/watching?

I'm actually a bit of a recluse... my performer-self is so high energy that when I turn her off I often need to have a bit of a battery recharge. My total 'me' time is when I put my phone in a locker and go to my gym/yoga/dance classes. I do love eating (YES, too much - guilty pleasures include cooked breakfasts, chocolate and dumplings (no not at the same time), and watching goodbad (you know when its good but you watch too much and you know you shouldn't) tv while making nipple pasties with a cat (or 3) on my lap. Also love a good night of 60s/70s movies with my man - last night we did red wine, homemade pizza and The Great Silence which was a pretty good combo! :)

Where do you draw your inspiration from?

As Lucas would say, 'Who knows where thoughts come from, they just appear'... I think I often start with a costume, a theme or a piece of music and the rest seems to grow organically. I'm working on a new act at the moment where I was really inspired by a series of vintage artworks and some beautiful music pieces and well we'll just see...!

Image by 42nd St Photography

Have you faced any challenges in starting burlesque or developing your burlesque career?

I'll be honest, I know I was really lucky when I got started. Some say you make your own luck, maybe there's a bit of truth in that, but I also think I was often the right person in the right place at the right time. My first ever solo performance was at a fundraiser run by my then bellydance teacher. I got that performance filmed, walked into Burlesque Bar with it on a CD and a pretty printed resume and somehow not long after ended up performing several nights a week as one of the resident performers! I think probably my main challenge has always been myself. I tend to be hypercritical of my performances and still get the fear bigtime when it comes to putting new material in front of a crowd!

Tell us a bit about your classes at Maison and what they're all about!

I've been running the Fan Dance classes at Maison Burlesque since we opened in 2014 so they are definitely my baby - back then we only had a couple of classes running! And more recently I've started teaching Bump Grind & Tease which is more of a playful classic burlesque style. What are they about? Well that varies but they are a helluva lotta fun - best way to find out is to come try! :D

Xx

Want to join Poppy Cherry for some classes and workshops? Limited places left for Term 5 Courses Commencing October 23rd as well as:

More About Poppy Cherry

Co-director of Melbourne Burlesque wonderspace Maison Burlesque, Poppy Cherry has been wrapping audiences around her little finger for over 9 years, with her energetic, theatrical take on classic burlesque. With an extensive list of achievements and performances both on and off the stage, Poppy Cherry is a burlesque performer, MC, producer, stylist, teacher, and pastie maker… Is there anything this little lady can’t do?

Having performed her unique brand of tease nation wide, Poppy’s production credits also include working as Entertainment Manager for Burlesque Bar, the Stage Manager for the Australian Burlesque Festival national tour, Entertainment Manager and resident MC for the Burlesque Showboat, Entertainment Manager for Phillip Island Burlesque Festival, as well as numerous of her own productions including Stage Fright!, Poppy’s Peepshow, The Hoochie Coochie Club, Burlesque De Vine, and the annual Oktoberfest Burlesque event. Since 2014 Poppy has also worked full-time as co-director and resident Fan Dance instructor for Maison Burlesque.

2017 will see Poppy’s 8th consecutive year performing as part of the Australian Burlesque Festival, having never missed a year!

Take one part rum floozy and two parts cheesecake, add a dash of sauce, give it a fierce shake and grind and you have Poppy Cherry in an hourglass!

Or you can just find her wherever the nearest rum bar is… 😉

Website: www.poppycherry.com Facebook: facebook.com/poppycherry Instagram: @poppycherry

It was a race to the finish line to have our new studio room ready for classes this week! We thought a little celebratory shimmy was in order 😉

A huge thankyou to everyone who helped with our studio renovations, including Steve the wonderhandyman, Maple Rose, Domino de Jour, Dolores Daiquiri, Miss Jane Doe, Amanda Vary, Melanie Hartley, Bianca Smith as well as everyone who put up with our tired faces, made us cups of coffee or popped their head in to cheer us along...

Watch this space as our new room evolves over the coming weeks... more photos to come soon!

Xx Poppy & Lolly

We are so thrilled to have some amazing special interstate guests coming to Maison Burlesque in the coming weeks and we can't wait to soak up everything they have to offer!

Choose from:💋SEXY-PEEL and HOLLYWOOD GRIND💋 with Lyra La Belle - Sunday August 20th

Bookings:http://www.maisonburlesque.com.au/class-enrolments

💞🛏️THE TRUNDLE BED OFFER!🛏️ 💞

Are you here so much we've occasionally found you sleeping 😴 under a pile of feathers and rhinestoned lingerie? ✨ Well, for all our beautiful students who have earned 'trundle bed' status at Maison we want to say thank you with this special offer...

Book into 4 or more of our upcoming interstate special guest workshops and receive a $20 credit to be used for any future class or workshop! 😍

All you have to do to claim the offer is email us at info@maisonburlesque.com.au with the subject heading 'GET ME A TRUNDLE BED' and we'll take care of the rest. 💖

Images (left to right): 3 Fates Media, Caveboy Studios & Ashlee Savins Creative

💖💖WHAT A NIGHT!💖💖

Thank you to all the incredible individuals who came together to create an incredible night as the current students and emerging solo artists from Maison Burlesque took to the stage at Memo Music Hall on July 30th for a fabulous celebration of burlesque, dance, strong beautiful women, and even Waynes World! 😜

Special thanks to Angel from 3 Fates Media for the photos! We love you!

💋💋💋Next term starts August 14th! Book your spot now at www.maisonburlesque.com.au/enrol💋💋💋

To view the full albums click below:

Album #1 - CLICK HERE

Album #2 - CLICK HERE

Image by 3 Fates Media

Miss Bettie Bombshell is one fierce little lady who has taken the burly world by storm in recent years with her own unique style of performance. Not only is she a fabulous burlesque artist but a producer and dance instructor as well! You can find her regularly teaching her signature classes at Maison Burlesque including; Centre Stage Starlets, 1920's Gatsby Burlesque, Learn To Fosse & All That Jazz and her brand new class for Term 4 - Burlesque Technique! We had a chat to Bettie about her introduction to burlesque and advice she has for new performers.

Image by Rachel Fogarty

Tell us a bit about how you got into burlesque!

I got into burlesque by chance! My very first performance was at the incredible Burlesque Bar about 5 years ago. I have been a dancer for 20+ years, and was very heavily into the vintage/ pinup scene at the time so it made sense in my head to move into burlesque. I saw a post asking for new performers to perform at the Debut Darlings newbie night and I just sent an email through! I was accepted into the show, and the rest is history! What advice would you give someone who wants to perform but doesn't know where to start?

Take as many classes as you can, with an many teachers as possible. Do your research, go to lots of shows, spend more time rehearsing than costuming, and whatever you decided to do on stage - SELL THE S**T OUT OF IT!What advice can you give to someone preparing for a performance?

I would recommend giving yourself as much prep time as possible, and be ready weeks before the show. There is nothing better than going on stage feeling super prepared, confident about your routine, your look and yourself! Rehearse, rehearse, rehearse! The chorey, character and confidence of the act is so important, you can put a rhinestone on a costume anytime. Make sure you tech your act if you get a chance, it gives you a run through on the stage before the actual show, so the first time you step onto the stage isn't in front of an audience! Keep calm, remember you got this, and go out there and show them all the hard work you have done!

How do you deal with pre-performance nerves?

Every one combats nerves differently. Being nervous in my books is a good thing. It means you care about what you are doing! I run through my act a few times, and I have created a little pre show ritual to help me take me mind off things. I grab a drink, get some fresh air, and then run the act over and over. I know that I am going to go on stage and do something I have been working at for ages, so I turn those nerves into good energy. What do you do if something goes wrong on stage?

Something will always go wrong on stage! It's live performance, it's never ever perfect. Think on your feet, remember no one knows the act except you, and just keep on keepin on! Make it work! And you never know, it could end up being something you keep in the chorey because it adds some cute comedy! The amount of times things have gone wrong for me on stage is absolutely ridiculous, but it's all about how you handle it in the moment... If you laugh it off and move on, so will your audience.Any final words of wisdom?

Remember, you can go on stage and do what ever you feel. You don't have to just be the sultry burlesque performer. Burlesque comes in so many different styles, so find the one that fits you best. Go to as many different shows as you can, support the industry, be kind and giving to your fellow performers, and enjoy the hell out of it!

Image by Len Panecki

Want to join Bettie for some classes? Limited spots available left for:

For all workshop and course bookings click HERE

More About Miss Bettie Bombshell

Miss Bettie Bombshell is no stranger to the stage, she has quickly become one of Australia’s favourite performers touring both nationally and internationally showcasing her unique brand of burlesque. This Bombshell has accrued quite a list of achievements including competing at the 2016 Burlesque Hall of Fame – Best Debut competition in Las Vegas, the world’s biggest, most glamorous and prestigious burlesque event where she received a standing ovation. She has headlined shows at the Edinburgh, Perth, Adelaide and Melbourne Fringe Festivals, as well as throughout America and the UK. Bettie was crowned Miss Burlesque Idol Canberra, ‘Miss Classic’ at the Oregon Burlesque Festival, won the top prize at the Miss Burlesque Victoria competition and received an award at the 2014 Australian Burlesque Festival. This bombshell brings a veritable smorgasbord of disciplines to the stage; ballet, acrobatics, comedy, music theatre, and after 20 years of dancing her performances are polished and beautiful to watch. Combine this with her quirky comedic style, Hollywood vixen good looks, curvy package and wicked sense of humour, you will not be able to avert your eyes, and nor should you want to. Bombshell by name, Bombshell by nature...

Always wanted to try burlesque but not quite sure where to start? Join us for two brand new introductory 4 week courses commencing in September that will teach you the foundations of classic burlesque!

Introduction To Burlesque with Dolores Daiquiri

Join Dolores Daiquiri for this 4 week introduction to burlesque that will cover all the foundational skills of classic burlesque including: bumps, grinds, the shimmy, burlesque walks, glove peels and more!

This course is designed for students to develop a level of confidence and understanding of basic burlesque techniques that can then be applied into any of our 8 week courses. You’ll be bump ‘n’ grinding in no time!

No dance or burlesque experience is required.

This course does not involve learning a routine to perform at the end of term showcase, however all students enrolled in this course will receive a complimentary ticket to attend.

When: Tuesday 7.30pm from September 5th

Cost: $90 for 4 weeks

Bookings: CLICK HERE

Dolores Daiquiri by 3 Fates Media

Introduction To Fan Dance with Poppy Cherry

If you’ve always wanted to try the classic art of burlesque fan dancing - this is the course for you! Join Poppy Cherry for this 4 week Introduction to Fan Dance that will cover all the foundational skills of fan dance that will cover techniques including; classic grip and control, posing, posture & conditioning, fan choreography, hide & reveal and more!

This course is designed for students to develop a level of confidence and understanding of basic fan dance techniques that can then be applied into our 8 week Beginner Fan Dance courses.

No dance or burlesque experience is required.

This course does not involve learning a routine to perform at the end of term showcase, however all students enrolled in this course will receive a complimentary ticket to attend. Feather fans will be provided during class.

When: Monday 6.15pm from September 11th

Cost: $105 for 4 weeks

Bookings:CLICK HERE

Poppy Cherry by 3 Fates Media

First there was the Peacock Room... Then came the Flamingo Room... Now Maison Burlesque is proud to announce a third studio opening in mid August - the Phoenix Room!

Rising from the ashes of the abandoned building downstairs, the Phoenix Room will be a sumptuous Victorian era bordello... Full of opulence and sumptuous exoticism, it will be the perfect setting for classes, functions and photography.

Once you step behind the rich velvet curtain into the Phoenix Room, be prepared to be transported into our 19th century palatial boudoir full of luscious reds and golds and into a old-world burlesque sanctuary!

We can't wait to unveil this brand new studio space and watch the Phoenix fly!

Want to stay up to date with all the behind the scenes and latest news about The Phoenix Room? Make sure you're following us on Instagram at @maisonburlesque

Poppy & Lolly Xx

A force to be reckoned with, Miss Jane Doe is known as 'The First Lady Of Fierce' that always grabs dance by the disco balls! You might know her as one of our amazing instructors here at Maison Burlesque that's always dishing out giant serves of sass, funk and booty-licious SOUL in her classes.

We had a chat to Miss Jane Doe about her love of burlesque and experiences as a burlesque performer...

Image by The Vamp Studio

Tell us when and how you first discovered burlesque?

Many, many years ago a friend invited me to attend a burlesque class in Perth. I had NO idea what burlesque was at the time but thought it would be fun to try something new. I was excited by the idea of challenging myself and I loved the concept of doing something to improve my confidence and body image which at that time was a bit of a challenge for me. I became addicted, and the rest is history!

How would you describe your unique style?

MANIC! Definitely manic, and uninhabited and fun! I don't particularly stick to a particular genre or era of burlesque but there's definitely a 'feeling' that threads through my performance style. Someone once said to me that when I got up on stage it made them want to take their clothes off and get up on stage and dance with me... That was the best compliment ever! I'd say that's definitely the most accurate description of what I'm trying to achieve on stage. I want my performances to encourage people to really let go and lose their hang ups about their bodies or how they think they're supposed to behave.

How did you decide upon your burlesque/performer name?

In a way it wasn't really me that decided on it! It was a nickname that people already called me and I just added to it, boring I know! But I really love Miss Jane Doe because it's a complete juxtaposition to my performers character. Jane Doe is like a blank canvas, it sounds so sweet and unassuming and like a bit of a wallflower, but then I come out on stage and well, you know... Things have been known to get a little crazy haha!

What advice do you have for someone wanting to start burlesque?

Find a great group of people who support you and GO FOR IT! Then support everyone around you. The burlesque community is big enough for us all, and the more we support each other the more we all achieve. Keep creating, and look for inspiration everywhere! most of the best acts I have ever seen have been inspired by something completely seperate to burlesque. There are no rules! If we just kept re-creating other acts we've already seen then we just end up hindering our own development. If you have an idea, no matter how insane it seems just do it! Keep learning! I will never stop learning or developing as an artist because there's no such thing as a 'perfect performer'. I'm far from perfect! Our styles change, our look changes and develops as we learn new things and try new things, and that's awesome! That's how it should be!

Image by 3 Fates Media

Describe your average Saturday night?

If I'm not performing around Melbourne I'm working at my home away from home Maison Burlesque. If I happen to have a Saturday night free you can usually find me at home playing computer games or reading comics or researching new ideas and concepts for acts and classes.

Tell us a bit more about your non-performer self! What do you love doing?

I LOVE music! I'm always on YouTube finding new music that inspires me. I love comic books and I LOVE LOVE LOVE the gym... I get the stupidest grin on my face when I'm lifting weights! Eating... I love burgers and pizza! I also love watching bag 90's films as well as a lot of films from the 60's & 70's.

Where do you draw your inspiration from?

Anything from the 60's & 70's era! I also have a huge love for comic books - in particular anything featuring badass women! Also high fashion couture.

Have you faced any challenges in starting burlesque or developing your burlesque career? Vulnerability is definitely my biggest challenge.

I think any career based in performance; whether its burlesque or being an actor or comedian or musician can be a very vulnerable place. You're putting your heart and soul into every piece you create and putting it out there for the whole world to see. You're opening yourself up for others to see you, judge you, love you and (potentially) hate you and that's never easy. You're also faced with comparing yourself to others around you; wondering if you're growing enough, if your ideas are good enough. I'm very aware I can be own worst enemy and critic, I often catch myself wondering things like "have I made it worth your time? Have I been true to myself, have I given it my all?" For me these are by biggest challenges and it's a constant battle. But I always remind myself that as long as i keep trying and learning and performing from the heart then I'm on the right track!

Tell us a bit about your classes at Maison and what they're all about!

I teach a couple of different classes at Maison, they're all SUPER fun and perfect for all ages and levels of experience. The first class I teach is 1960's Gogo dancing; It's a really energetic retro style class that teaches you the basics of Gogo dancing and puts it together in a fun themed routine. Latin Burlesque is exactly what it sounds like; burlesque with a latin twist! We dance to latinesque music and I teach you some latin inspired dance steps like samba and cha-cha. My last class is Soul Training, and everyone knows how much I love this class! It's based around funk, hip-hop, r'n'b and disco from the 70's to today's music. We have done everything from Prince to Kanye West! I teach you a lot of 70's style funk and disco moves and we put it all together into a routine.

Image by David Woolley

If you want to find out more about the classes Miss Jane Doe teaches at Maison Burlesque then head to our class descriptions page HERE.

Miss Jane Doe is also running a special workshop: Booty Sweat Bootcamp on Tuesday August 8th. For more info on that head to our Workshops & Masterclasses page HERE.

The Team at Maison Burlesque Xx

IT'S ALIIIIVE! ✨💋 Our Term 4 timetable is now LIVE on the website! 💕

From August 2017 we're super excited to be bringing you our biggest timetable yet along with some brand new TECH & FITNESS classes to get even more burlesque into your week!

For class descriptions CLICK HERE

For enrolments CLICK HERE

After 3 years of running our 'Champagne & Corsets' Photography, we decided things were due for a re-VAMP! In January 2017 we at Maison Burlesque launched our new, decadent pin up photography parlour 'The Vamp Studio'.

Set in the surrounds of our Peacock & Flamingo room clients are provided with a full photography & styling experience with a Hair & Make up team, Stylist/Creative Director and of course, our Photographer!

Our resident photographer is Dominic Deacon of 42nd St Photography; a specialist in pin up, glamour and commercial portraiture.