For the fourth blockbuster year, the Burlesque Hall of Fame Finishing School offers rare, hands-on workshops with “Living Legends” of the art of Burlesque. These classes are a special opportunity to learn directly from seasoned performers and headliners, each of whom has her own  unique perspective on the art, and shares directly from her own experience.

Produced by the BurlyCon Burlesque Educational Convention, offerings are curated by Hall of Fame Co-Directors of Education, Jo “Boobs” Weldon (New York School of Burlesque) and Miss Indigo Blue (Seattle Academy of Burlesque), and in the past have included workshops with such notable stars as Big Fannie Annie (2009), Candy “Baby” Carmello (2010), Dee Milo (2009), Joan Arline (pictured at left, 2010), Marinka (2008), Satan’s Angel (2010), Toni Elling (2009), the late Tura Satana (2008), and Wild Cherry (2008).

With expanded offerings, lower prices and more spaces in each class, this year’s Burlesque Hall of Fame Finishing School classes offer the perfect opportunity for devotees of the Art of Burlesque to expand their knowledge.

FRIDAY, JUNE 3, 2011
1-2pm
Fabulous Rhinestone Jewelry with Big Fannie Annie
Big Fannie Annie traveled the world with her fabulous XXX-rated comedy and Burlesque show, and she has 30 years of construction experience making sturdy, long-lasting jewelry to enhance any costume. In this class, you will make long rhinestone earrings, either pierced or clipped. Please bring a notebook, pen, and a 1/2 yard of rhinestones, and Annie will help you understand the secrets to fabulous handmade rhinestone jewelry

2:30-3:30 PM
Elegant Burlesque with April March “The First Lady of Burlesque”
April March, the “First Lady of Burlesque”, brings her signature elegance and charisma to this class on the Burly fundamentals! From stately walks, to refined boa techniques, and lovely glove removal, this class is a “must-take” for every fancy lady and lad! Some gloves and boas will be provided, but bring your own if you have them.

SATURDAY, JUNE 4, 2011
10:30-11:30 AM
Working the Stage and Loving the Curtain with Marinka “Queen of the Amazons”
Who needs a stage prop when the prop is the stage itself? Marinka is known for her fluid and powerful stage strut, and her seductive relationship with her velvety friends, the stage curtains. Learn from a mentee of Rose La Rose (and Bob Fosse!) just how to use the curtain and work the entire stage.

12-1 PM
Classical Burlesque Movements with Joan Arline “The Sexquire Girl”
Known for her grace, Joan Arline teaches dance moves based in Ballet and Jazz to strengthen your choreography. Perfect your poise as you practice glamorous entrance and exit steps. Class will feature handouts which you can take away and practice with on your own. Please wear heels and clothing that you can move comfortably in.

3-4 PM
“Teasing” & Strip-Teasing with Tiffany Carter
“Miss Nude Universe” 1975 Tiffany Carter teaches you the “Good old striptease”! This class focuses how to get the most tease out your costuming elements! Learn how to utilize a negligee with fabulous spins and turns, how to remove those stockings with the greatest of “tease”, and more! Bring whatever clothing you want to use: Panel skirts, boas, stockings, high heels, negligees (some negligees provided). Be ready to really learn how to work it!

IMPORTANT: Please note that all classes are $45/each, unless you purchase a three- or five-class package ($120 and $190, respectively).