XBU - X Burlesque University

Surviving a burlesque revue without breaking a heel has to be more than lucky, right? According to the titillating X Burlesque showgirls, it's an art-form that isn't all that hard to perfect. Nor is dropping 5 lbs for the camera – apparently. If you've ever caught yourself imagining what it would be like to step into the shoes of a Vegas showgirl for the day, there is one way to find out. XBU, Las Vegas' premier finishing school for budding burlesque dancers invites you behind the scenes to witness the glamor, the secrets and the skills that transform X Burlesques minimally made-up girls into sultry temptresses for the Flamingo Hotel's Cabaret Showroom stage.

Founded in 2004 by real life partners Angela and Matt Sabile, X Burlesque has won countless awards for its seamless sophistication and traditional French concept. True to the glamor and theatrical dynamism of Lydia Thompson's sensational “British Blondes” who took New York by storm in 1868, X Burlesque blends the coy theater of those early years with the risqué tease-to-please synonymous of Vegas showgirl acts. Hailed as America's foremost effort to revive this classical art, X Burlesque now invites ambitious wannabes to learn the skills and tricks employed by its magnificent all-girl cast.

Whether you're curious about showgirl make-up tricks, or you have the legs to take you all the way, X Burlesque University is an eye-opening opportunity. Led by a select team of X Burlesque dames, the 75-minute class encompasses just about every aspect of pre-show preparation you care to think of. Your XBU course will commence with a vital lesson in self confidence - shedding your inhibitions and gaining the emboldened technique of maintaining eye contact for the entire duration of a song. Easier than it sounds! Next up is a brief lesson on perfecting your sashay; effectively learning how to walk in skyscraper heels, whilst somehow making it appear sexy. Apparently, it's as simple as pushing forward your hips!

A laugh-a-minute backstage party, XBU helps overcome a great many misconceptions about the show and its fabulous cast. Students are taught that far from a seedy variation on lap-dancing, burlesque is in fact a highly skilled art, requiring a good deal of balance, poise and panache to pull off. Students are treated to an in-depth make-up lesson courtesy of XBU's resident artist, followed by a quick detour to hair and wardrobe. Finally, the choreography lesson begins and it's here under the bright lights upon Bugsy's Cabaret showroom stage one begins to understand the complexity of each enthralling X Burlesque scene. From high kicks and boa twirling, to keeping your assets firmly contained, XBU 's glamorous mentors guarantee to get your confidence soaring. After a quick round of celebratory drinks, you'll be called to bask in the spotlight once more for your official XBU photo shoot!