How to Become a Burlesque Performer: 10 Things You Didn’t Know About Getting Started
So you’re googling how to become a burlesque performer, curious about starting a creative side hustle in Chicago, or looking for a way to turn your dance skills into a business?
Welcome to the sparkly, powerful, slightly rebellious world of burlesque.
Whether you’re an artist craving more income or a creative spirit looking to own your sensual expression, burlesque is more than just glitter and glam—it’s a bold reclamation of your story, your voice, and your stage presence.
Here are 10 truths I wish someone told me when I was just starting out:
💥 1. It’s basically glitter cardio.
Who needs the gym when you’ve got sequins, sweat, and shimmy drills? Yes, burlesque is a workout—and your joy is the reward.
🎭 2. Pasties were invented to outsmart censors.
Before OnlyFans, there were rhinestones and ingenuity. Welcome to the art of the tease (with a wink to loopholes).
🪶 3. Feathers are a BIG deal.
Fans, boas, headdresses—feathers aren’t just props. They’re power pieces.
🃏 4. “Burlesque” means parody.
We’re sexy comedians in corsets. Seduction meets satire, and that’s what makes it irresistible.
🎀 5. Corsets are like hugs… but meaner.
Tight, supportive, and yes—judgmental. But there’s no denying the confidence boost when you’re laced in and lit up.
✨ 6. We do our own stunts.
Every glitter bomb, tassel twirl, and dramatic eye roll? All us. DIY divas, always.
🌟 7. Stage names are sacred.
Mine is Red Hot Annie. Yours could be anything from Velvet Vice to Sparkle Savage. Choose with love and boldness.
🧵 8. Everything takes longer than you think.
That costume you love? It took three weeks and one existential crisis. But damn, was it worth it.
💃 9. You don’t need to know how to dance.
You need presence. You need permission. Technique can come later—this is about embodiment.
🫶 10. Burlesque is for EVERY body.
All sizes. All ages. All backgrounds. If you have a body and a story, you belong.
🎟️ Want to Start Performing or Monetizing Your Creative Spark?
Introducing: The Burlesque Business Starter Session
This 60-minute 1:1 session is perfect for:
- Aspiring performers wondering how to become a burlesque artist
- Dancers ready to launch a side hustle or start teaching
- Creatives who want to sell digital products or custom costumes on Etsy
- Artists seeking branding, performance, or storytelling support
We’ll focus on:
- Clarifying your unique performer identity
- Strategizing your first (or next) paid offering
- Building a personal brand that supports both sensual expression and sustainable income
💌 I built Red Hot Annie from backstage floors to global festivals, and I’ve helped hundreds of students do the same. Whether you’re ready to shine in heels or simply want to own your story more boldly—this is your first confident step.
💃 Ready to go from curious to confident?
Book a Burlesque Business Starter Session — your 1:1 strategy call to build a bold brand, price your art, and start performing.
👉 Book Your Starter Session Now – $99
Limited spots available monthly. Includes a follow-up resources list + an option to join the mini mastermind.
