A Night To Remember Burlesque Ball 2017…

The anticipation was palpable as the lights dimmed and the curtains drew back at Drax Sports and Social Club on November 4th for the highly awaited Burlesque Ball 2017.

The evening promised to be a showcase of talent, creativity, and glamour as the ladies from various burlesque classes came together to dazzle the audience with their performances. This was a night that would be etched in the memories of all who attended, a night to remember indeed.

As the rooms energy surged in anticipation, the inaugural act took to the stage with Ginger Tarte leading the charge into an evening filled with the art of the tease. Vera Rouge, Lola Lashes, and La Curve, from Featherstone Follies, were the first to dazzle the crowd. Adorned in lace bodices paired with daring hot pants, their group routine to "Big Spender" exemplified the allure and sophistication of burlesque. Their choreography, which seamlessly incorporated chairs and sequined trilby hats, was executed with an elegance that belied their novice status. The resounding applause that followed their performance was not just a celebration of their individual talents, but a herald of the exceptional acts that were yet to grace the stage.

Amid the aura of excitement, Scarlett Valentine took her first solo flight into the burlesque spotlight, from the Selby Starlets class with undeniable panache. Her chosen soundtrack, "Welcome To Burlesque," set the perfect stage for her to unveil her captivating persona. Clad in fishnet tights paired with red lace shorts and a rhinestoned corset that shimmered under the spotlight, Scarlett exuded confidence and sass that belied the butterflies she confessed to having. As she danced, the audience's response grew from eager anticipation to an overwhelming display of admiration and applause. Her performance wasn't just a display of individual talent; it was a bold statement of empowerment and artistic expression. Scarlett Valentine, through her captivating routine, not only marked her debut but also embodied the spirit of burlesque, leaving the audience spellbound and eager for more.

The stage was then graced by Goole Goddesses, who brought a festive twist to the evening with their spirited Christmas routine. Dressed in vibrant reds and greens, they embraced the holiday spirit with an engaging split routine, beginning with the sultry tones of "Santa Baby" before transitioning into the lively beats of "Jingle Bell Rock." Their costumes—a delightful mix of capes, corsets, babydolls, stockings, and tutus—were a visual feast, perfectly encapsulating the joy and merriment of the season. The creative use of polystyrene balls as snow added a playful and cheeky element to their performance, eliciting laughter and cheers from the captivated audience. With their dynamic choreography and infectious energy, the Goole Goddesses delivered a performance that was both a nod to the traditional elements of burlesque and a celebration of festive cheer, contributing to the evening's diverse showcase of talent.

In a performance that encapsulated the true essence of burlesque, Paris Chantilly took center stage, instantly captivating the audience with her opulent attire. Adorned in a costume that glittered with every move, her entrance was nothing short of breathtaking. As the music for "Love Me" began to play, Paris embarked on a riveting journey of seduction and allure. Her skillful removal of each elaborately jeweled piece was a spectacle of grace and precision. The crowd was spellbound as she twirled her skirt, the translucent isis wings adding an ethereal quality to her presence. With deliberate and mesmerizing movements, she playfully interacted with her fur cuffs, each action a testament to her mastery of the art. The climax of her act saw the dramatic reveal of pasties, executed with a flair that only Paris Chantilly could embody. This performance wasn't just a dance; it was a narrative told through the language of burlesque, leaving the audience utterly entranced by the magic Paris Chantilly so effortlessly wove on stage.

The evening's allure was magnified by the addition of guest performers Cece Sinclair and Tawny Kay, each bringing their distinct flair to the Burlesque Ball. Cece Sinclair, with her dynamic and seductive energy, captivated the audience, her performance a dazzling display of burlesque prowess. Tawny Kay, on the other hand, offered a classic bump and grind that harked back to the roots of burlesque, her moves both sensual and commanding. These performances not only showcased the diversity within the art form but also served as an inspirational showcase for the performers from all classes, illustrating the wide array of styles and expressions that burlesque encompasses. The inclusion of such esteemed guest stars underscored the event's celebration of artistic diversity, making it an enriching experience for both the audience and the participants. Their acts were a highlight of the evening, embodying the spirit of burlesque with every seductive step and turn.

The evening culminated in a moment of collective pride and recognition as awards were distributed, celebrating the hard work and artistic evolution of the performers. Categories such as Star Of The Class, Miss Dedicated, and Miss Most Improved highlighted the achievements of individuals across all the classes, acknowledging not just talent, but also perseverance and improvement. The spotlight shone brightest when the Miss Star Of Burlesque With Paris 2017 award was announced for Selby Starlets Scarlett Valentine.

This segment of the night was not just about accolades; it was a testament to the journey of growth and discovery each participant embarked upon. The awards ceremony seamlessly wove together the threads of hard work, talent, and the unwavering support among the performers, encapsulating the true essence of the burlesque community.

The Burlesque Ball Encore was a night to remember, with Scarlett Valentine stealing the spotlight once again with her mesmerizing Welcome To Burlesque routine. The audience was left in awe as she graced the stage, showcasing her talent and passion for burlesque.

Diva Hollywood stood out as the whip-cracking hostess, masterfully guiding the Burlesque Ball Encore with her electrifying presence. Her role went beyond mere introductions; she wove a narrative that connected each act, making the transitions seamless and the experience cohesive for everyone in the audience. With a mix of humor and panache, Diva effortlessly entertained, keeping the energy high and the audience engaged with her whip-cracking prowess and playful antics. Her ability to blend comedy, charisma, and command over the stage added a unique layer to the evening, creating moments of laughter and anticipation between the stunning performances. Diva's spirited interaction with the crowd—whether through clever games or witty banter—ensured that the show's pace never waned.

The Burlesque Ball Encore introduced a diverse array of talent from celebrated figures such as Khandie Khisses, Paris Chantilly, Tawny Kay, Rosy Cheeks, and Hamish Harf, the audience embarked on an exploratory voyage into the heart of burlesque culture. This eclectic mix of performances served not just as entertainment but revealing the depth, versatility, and cultural significance of burlesque as an art form. The array of styles presented—ranging from classic to avant-garde—underscored the boundless creativity and storytelling power inherent in burlesque, offering a fresh perspective and newfound appreciation for this captivating performance art. Attendees left with their curiosity piqued and horizons broadened, having been immersed in an evening that was as much an educational experience as it was a spectacular show full of talent and creativity.

As anticipation builds for what's next, the aftermath of the Burlesque With Paris Ball Show only fuels our eagerness to delve deeper into the realms of creativity and expression. Our journey thus far has been remarkable, a testament to the hard work and passion that define our burlesque community.

Moving forwards, we are brimming with ideas to innovate and evolve, making each future performance more captivating and inspiring than the last. The commitment of our students, under the inspired guidance of Paris Chantilly, promises an era of groundbreaking performances that will continue to challenge and redefine the boundaries of the burlesque art form.

The stage is set for the emergence of new stars, the development of bold and dynamic acts, and the expansion of our vibrant community. We are poised on the brink of a thrilling chapter in our story, ready to embrace the myriad opportunities that lie ahead. With a shared vision of excellence and innovation, the prospects for Burlesque With Paris have never looked more luminous.

Here's to the magic yet to be unveiled, and to the enduring spirit of our students that ensures the enchantment of burlesque will continue to thrive in the years to come.