Burlesque

Essential Burlesque Dance Series
Time Out NY
Sex Issue, Classes

“Eye contact is the fake orgasm of burlesque!” declares Jo Weldon, the head of the New York School of Burlesque, after stressing the importance of connecting with audience members. A dozen or so ladies are here for the second session of a female-only, four-part workshop covering the basics of burly-Q. Some are dressed in fancy undies and are exploring the art form; others are wearing sporty duds and appear more interested in utilizing the skills in the bedroom. Weldon introduces the Diva in a Hoodie routine, during which we’re taught how to saucily remove street clothing. The class went faster than I’d like as a newbie, but much of burlesque is about attitude, and Weldon is a master at coaxing even the most sheepish of students out of her shell—or sweatshirt. 81 White St at Benson St • 440 Studios, 440 Lafayette St between Astor Pl and E 4th St • (schoolofburlesque.com).