Canberra Burlesque Academy: A Safe and Inclusive Space for All

At the heart of Canberra’s vibrant arts scene, the Canberra Burlesque Academy stands as a beacon of inclusivity, diversity, and self-expression. Led by a passionate team of LGBTQI+ and disability advocates, this unique school is not only reshaping the world of burlesque, but also transforming what it means to create a truly accessible and welcoming environment for performers of all identities and abilities.

An Inclusive Vision for Burlesque

Burlesque, often thought of as a glamorous art form, is more than just costumes and choreography—it's about reclaiming power, embracing individuality, and celebrating one's body and identity. The Canberra Burlesque Academy understands this and works to foster an environment where everyone can feel seen, heard, and appreciated.

With a strong foundation rooted in LGBTQI+ advocacy and disability empowerment, the Academy offers a space where people of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and physical abilities are encouraged to explore burlesque on their own terms. This inclusive vision makes it a standout institution in the burlesque world and a vital community hub for self-expression and confidence.

LGBTQI+ and Disability Led, Friendly, and Empowering

One of the Academy’s core values is ensuring that both the leadership and the participants feel equally represented. The school is LGBTQI+ and disability-led, meaning that the people who shape its curriculum and policies come from the very communities it serves. This ensures that every aspect of the Academy's operations—whether it’s performance workshops, choreography, or even social events—reflects a genuine understanding and commitment to inclusivity.

Beyond just being LGBTQI+ and disability friendly, the Academy works to make burlesque a safe and accessible space for people of all backgrounds and abilities. It provides a range of adaptive options to ensure that participants with different needs can engage in classes and performances in ways that suit them. Whether you are looking to develop your confidence, explore new ways of expressing your gender or sexuality, or simply want to experience the joy of dance, the Academy offers a space to do so in a supportive, non-judgmental environment.

Celebrating Body Positivity and Self-Love

Burlesque has always been a celebration of body positivity and self-love, and the Canberra Burlesque Academy takes this to heart. Here, the focus isn’t on conforming to traditional beauty standards or fitting a mold. Instead, it’s about embracing your unique body—however it is—and owning it with confidence. Whether you are tall, short, disabled, or somewhere in between, the Academy believes everyone has the power to be a dazzling star on stage.

The classes at the Academy are designed to encourage students to embrace their inner performer and challenge traditional norms. The emphasis is on creativity and authenticity, rather than perfection, making burlesque a great tool for building self-confidence, breaking down societal barriers, and celebrating one's identity.

A Community of Support and Belonging

What truly sets the Canberra Burlesque Academy apart is the sense of community it fosters. As a school that centers the values of acceptance, kindness, and creativity, it becomes more than just a place to learn how to dance. It’s a family of like-minded individuals, all sharing their stories, supporting each other, and growing together as performers.

This community-driven approach ensures that everyone feels included and empowered, whether they are performing in front of an audience for the first time or honing their craft in a more experienced class. The Academy’s environment is free from discrimination, allowing students to focus on developing their craft without fear of judgment.

A Place to Shine, Whatever Your Journey

Whether you are new to burlesque or an experienced performer, the Canberra Burlesque Academy offers a space where you can explore and express yourself authentically. In addition to regular classes, the school hosts performances, workshops, and events that highlight the talents and experiences of its students. These performances, often showcasing themes of gender diversity, body positivity, and inclusion, are powerful examples of how burlesque can be a tool for social change and personal empowerment.

The Academy’s commitment to offering inclusive performance opportunities means that students from all walks of life have a chance to shine on stage and share their unique stories with the world. This not only highlights the diverse talent within the community but also sends a message that burlesque is for everyone.

Join the Movement

The Canberra Burlesque Academy is an essential part of a larger movement towards more inclusive, accessible, and diverse spaces within the performing arts. Whether you are looking to express yourself through burlesque or simply want to be part of a community that values authenticity, the Academy is a place where you can find belonging, support, and inspiration.

If you’re ready to discover the power of burlesque for yourself, or if you want to explore a more inclusive approach to performance, the Canberra Burlesque Academy invites you to join its diverse and welcoming community.

Together, we can create a world where everyone has the chance to shine—regardless of who they are, where they come from, or what their body or abilities look like.