When people hear the word burlesque, they often picture clichés: an old-fashioned cabaret show with feathers and glitter, naked dancers, or striptease that’s erotic or even vulgar. At best, they might mention Dita Von Teese and think only of glamorous Las Vegas performances.
While this misunderstanding can sometimes make me smile, I always like to remind people that burlesque is an alternative, subversive art form that challenges stereotypes. For example, although it is often associated with feminist movements, burlesque is not exclusively female! I’m living proof! It’s an art that aims to be accessible and, as I personally believe, can serve as both therapy and a source of self-fulfillment.
My true encounter with this world began in 2010 when I discovered the film Tournée by Mathieu Amalric. I’ll admit, it hit me like a revelation—I realized that if I could finally devote myself entirely to a creative activity, the art of burlesque would make perfect sense. A self-taught, jack-of-all-trades artist since childhood, I had never had formal training, deep conviction, or support from those around me. So I never dared to fully commit to the performing arts. Then, a few years ago, a life-changing meeting happened: Burlesque Luxembourg. I can’t quite explain it, but something clicked. It all unfolded naturally from there.
Board Members and Teachers
Today, I teach burlesque. I perform striptease, dance, sing, host and produce shows. I’ve taken the stage beyond Luxembourg and participated in festivals in several European cities. It was a revelation, followed by a journey. I often joke that this team gave me the courage to have an artistic coming out. I’m not a dancer, not an actor, not a singer—I consider myself a performer. And striptease, or the art of undressing, which is central to burlesque, allows me to express myself, to tell stories. It also gives me the joy and honor of supporting an entire team and aspiring performers.
Neither a dancer, nor an actor, nor a singer – I define myself as a performer.
In 2019, my “mamas,” Lulu Madeleine and Sadie Sly, founded Burlesque Luxembourg, a nonprofit organisation dedicated to promoting burlesque as a hobby and a vehicle for well-being, celebrating the body, movement, and reconnection with oneself. The enthusiasm was such that they quickly expanded, offering workshops and weekly classes, and launched their first shows featuring both students and professionals.
They attracted many talents and personalities. Their motto, A SAFE SPACE TO EXPRESS, is a powerful tool against prejudice linked to beauty standards, personal aspirations, and artistic expression.
Burlesque Luxembourg Boylesque © Christian Kieffer
Rosy Witch’s story is a powerful one: “I started burlesque with Sadie over five years ago. I was disconnected from my body and didn’t love it. The classes, which provide a safe space where women can come as they are, became my sanctuary, my bubble, my time for myself. I’m turning 50 this year, and I feel feminine, comfortable in my own skin and at ease in my body.”
For some attending their first class, they don’t always know what to expect. The idea of one day being on stage, or even undressing on it,feels unimaginable.
Sweet Devil shares: “There was no way I was getting on stage in my underwear and topless, widowed, overweight, and a mother of two teens. But that was before I met Sadie Sly, my extraordinary teacher. For three years now, I’ve performed in shows three times a year, often undressed but always with immense joy and fun. It’s real therapy for body image issues, a playful jab at beauty and charm stereotypes.”
Burlesque Luxembourg Students © Christian Kieffer
What started as a space for women’s empowerment quickly expanded into something more diverse and inclusive. Kitty Kiss, an expat and student for the past two years, says that what started as a midweek hobby amidst a stressful professional life quickly became the highlight of her week:
“Burlesque gave me confidence because all ages and body types are celebrated here. And burlesque is above all a community that is very inclusive.”
A community that welcomes all genders, all bodies, all talents, all sexual orientations, and people from very diverse backgrounds, reflecting the cosmopolitan society of Luxembourg. I always tell my students that what I love most about them is who they are, and that they should take pride in that and nurture it. Beyond technique or skill, what matters to me is their interpretation, their presence, their sensitivity, their own unique sexiness.
Georges, in his 30s and one of my students for nearly two years, came to burlesque to try something that combined dance and creativity. He says he discovered the thrill of the stage and loves the group’s shared atmosphere:
“I discovered a world full of color and nuance, a powerful breeze of freedom.”
Burlesque Luxembourg Students on stage © Christian Kieffer
Whether you’re a beginner or a professional, amateur or experienced, dancer, actor, or any kind of artist, there’s a place for everyone at Burlesque Luxembourg and in the burlesque world in general. From burlesque to boylesque, burly belly dance, cabaret, or chair dance, the range of disciplines is vast. Our teaching team, now expanded to include Lady Blue Velvet, Miss Shimmy S’More, and myself, is united in our mission: to support aspiring performers in both their artistic and personal growth.
I often tell my own students that what I love about them is who they are — and that they should be proud of it and nurture it. Beyond any technique or technical feat, it’s their interpretation, their contribution, their sensitivity, their own sexiness that truly interests me.
After all, burlesque is not just about the show. It’s an experience rooted in self-kindness, community, and the freedom to embrace your body as your own.
