Chicago Burlesque Classes for Beginners, Performers & Confidence
Build Confidence. Learn Burlesque. Discover a Version of Yourself You Haven’t Met Yet.
If you’ve been searching for burlesque classes in Chicago, you’ve probably noticed there are plenty of places to learn choreography. That’s not what happens here. For more than twenty years, Red Hot Annie has helped beginners, performers, professionals, artists, and everyday women discover something much deeper than dance.
These classes teach burlesque—but they also teach confidence, presence, musicality, creativity, storytelling, and the rare ability to feel comfortable being fully seen.
Whether you’re looking for a new hobby, preparing to perform, reconnecting with your body, or simply curious about burlesque, you’ll find a welcoming room where everyone starts exactly where they are.
No dance experience required.
No performance experience expected.
Just curiosity.
Sunday Burlesque Classes in Chicago
Every Sunday
10:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Crafty Cats
3713 W Division St.
Chicago, IL
$40 Drop-In Class
Why Students Choose These Chicago Burlesque Classes
Unlike many dance classes, these sessions are intentionally designed for beginners while offering enough depth for experienced performers to continue growing.
Students join from across Chicago—including Logan Square, Wicker Park, Humboldt Park, Ukrainian Village, Bucktown, Lincoln Park, Andersonville, Ravenswood, Oak Park, and nearby suburbs.
People come for many different reasons.
Some dream of performing.
Some want a creative outlet.
Some are rebuilding confidence after major life changes.
Some simply want to feel more alive again.
There is no single reason to begin.
Only your own.
Who These Classes Are For
These classes are perfect if you are looking for:
- Beginner burlesque classes in Chicago
- Burlesque dance lessons
- Confidence-building movement classes
- Adult dance classes
- Creative self-expression
- Stage presence coaching
- Performance training
- A welcoming dance community
- Burlesque workshops
- Cabaret movement training
Many students arrive convinced they’ll be the most nervous person in the room.
Almost every one of them discovers they aren’t.
What You’ll Learn
Each class combines practical dance instruction with performance training and confidence development.
Topics often include:
- Burlesque fundamentals
- Elegant walking and posture
- Stage presence
- Musical interpretation
- Character development
- Expressive movement
- Choreography
- Improvisation
- Storytelling through movement
- Confidence exercises
- Performance technique
- Audience connection
The goal isn’t to become someone else.
The goal is becoming more comfortable as yourself.
More Than A Dance Class
Burlesque has always been about much more than costumes and choreography.
At its best, it teaches presence.
It teaches how to walk into a room without apologizing.
How to take up space.
How to enjoy being seen instead of fearing it.
Many students tell me these lessons begin showing up everywhere—in work meetings, relationships, creative projects, public speaking, auditions, and everyday life.
The confidence doesn’t stay in the studio.
Meet Red Hot Annie
Red Hot Annie has spent more than two decades performing, directing, producing, and teaching within Chicago’s burlesque community.
She is the founder of Vaudezilla, creator of immersive theatrical experiences including The Pink Hotel, and has taught hundreds of students ranging from complete beginners to award-winning performers.
Her work has been eatured by ABC 7 Chicago / Localish, and numerous national media outlets.
Students appreciate a teaching style that is supportive, encouraging, professional, and deeply rooted in performance craft—not intimidation.
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.”
— Devon B.
“I was nervous before my first class, but everyone quickly felt comfortable. The atmosphere was supportive, welcoming, and genuinely fun.”
— Megan G.
“One of the most fun experiences I’ve ever had. I left feeling more confident than when I arrived.”
— Bailey M.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need dance experience?
No.
Most students have never taken a burlesque class before.
Are these beginner burlesque classes?
Yes.
Every Sunday class welcomes beginners.
Can I attend just one class?
Absolutely.
Each Sunday class is designed as a drop-in experience.
Do I have to perform?
Not at all.
Public performance is always optional.
Many students simply enjoy attending classes.
What should I wear?
Wear clothing you can comfortably move in.
Heels are optional.
Am I too old to start?
Never.
Students begin burlesque at every age.
Can I come by myself?
Most students do.
You’ll be welcomed into a supportive community from your very first class.
Is burlesque good exercise?
Yes.
Classes improve flexibility, coordination, posture, balance, and body awareness while emphasizing creativity over competition.
How often should I attend?
Many students attend weekly, while others join whenever their schedule allows.
Because each class stands alone, you’re welcome whenever you’re ready.
Do you offer private burlesque lessons?
Yes.
Private coaching is available for performers, beginners, public speakers, special events, and anyone seeking personalized confidence coaching.
Do you teach bachelorette parties?
Yes.
Private burlesque parties are one of Chicago’s most popular bachelorette experiences.
Explore Chicago Bachelorette Parties →
Can I eventually perform?
Absolutely.
Students interested in performance have opportunities to develop choreography and participate in productions when they’re ready.
Continue Your Journey
Whether you’re looking for confidence, creativity, community, or performance opportunities, there are several ways to continue exploring.
New to Burlesque?
Start with our Beginner’s Guide to Burlesque.
Looking for Private Coaching?
Explore Private Burlesque Lessons & Performance Coaching for one-on-one support.
Curious About Performing?
Discover Chicago Burlesque Shows and immersive cabaret experiences produced by Red Hot Annie.
Want Something More Immersive?
Explore an evolving world of immersive theater, performance, and transformational experiences. See Red Hot Annie’s immersive production world? Step inside The Pink Hotel by Vaudezilla.
Ready To Join Your First Class?
Sunday Burlesque Classes
Sundays
10:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Crafty Cats
3713 W Division St.
Chicago, IL
$40 Drop-In
No experience.
No auditions.
No pressure.
Just one step through the door.
