Burlesque Ball - 9th November 2019

A Night Of Enthralling Performances At Burlesque Ball 2019…

The Burlesque With Paris Burlesque Ball is an annual event that brings together performers and burlesque enthusiasts for a night of glamour, glitter, and sensuality. This year, the event took place on the 9th of November at Drax Sports and Social Club, and it was a night to remember. With 240 guests in attendance, the anticipation and excitement were palpable as everyone prepared for a night of shimmying, twirling, and tantalising performances.

As the date of the Burlesque With Paris Burlesque Ball drew nearer, excitement surged amongst the performers. They dedicated countless hours to perfecting their routines, with rehearsals filled with laughter, energy, and a shared enthusiasm for the art of burlesque. Their commitment was palpable, as they meticulously prepared their elaborate costumes and honed their dance moves, ensuring that every feather boa, every twirl of the tassel, was poised to captivate the audience.

The air in the dressing room was thick with anticipation on the eve of the event, as performers adorned in glitter and glamour readied themselves, their excitement mingled with a touch of nerves. This backstage buzz was a testament to the magic that was about to unfold, as each artist prepared to pour their heart and soul onto the stage, eager to dazzle the crowd with their unique expressions of burlesque artistry.

The atmosphere was electric at the annual Burlesque Ball, with the audience buzzing in anticipation as our hosts of the evening, The Dream Girls, graced the stage with their presence. The room was filled with excitement as the night promised to be filled with sensational performances that would ignite the stage. It was time for our first performers of the night to take to the stage and mesmerise the audience with their seductive moves and glamorous costumes. The Burlesque With Paris community was in for a night to remember.

Launching the evening's entertainment, The Selby Sirens captivated the audience with their rendition of 'I Just Want To Make Love To You'. Their attire, a mix of provocative corsets, ruffle shorts, fishnets, and intricately patterned tights, set the stage alight with a blend of sex appeal and sophistication. As they manoeuvred across the stage, their boas twirled in unison while rose petals cascaded gracefully to the floor. Each glove removal was met with an increase in the crowd's fervour, symbolising the allure and mystery synonymous with burlesque. Their performance not only demonstrated their impeccable ability to entice and entertain but also established a high bar for the night. The applause that resonated through the venue was a testament to their Sassy Siren charm, leaving the audience in raptures and setting a precedent for the evening that promised more spectacular performances to follow.

Adorned in their finest burlesque attire, Cinnamon Satin and Violet Vixen emerged onto the stage, instantly captivating the audience with their presence. Their chosen soundtrack, Kylie Minogue's ‘Two Hearts’, perfectly complemented the duo's sultry performance, as they elegantly twirled large hearts and skillfully removed their gloves, imbuing the act with an air of tantalising seduction. Every movement was met with an audible appreciation from the crowd, their choreography a flawless blend of grace and allure. With rose petals delicately trailing down their bodies, the pair embodied the very essence of desire, commanding attention and leaving spectators mesmerised. Their performance was not just a dance but a narrative told through body language and expression, showcasing their innate ability to draw the audience into their world of burlesque splendour.

Draped in their resplendent ring mistresses costumes, accented with dancing canes and top hats, Sinful Sorella stole the limelight. Their chosen piece, ‘The Greatest Show’, transformed the stage into a spectacular arena where charisma and confidence were the currency. With every step and twirl, they encapsulated the essence of a captivating performance that held the audience in a mesmerising spell. Applause thundered throughout the venue as these performers exhibited a level of prowess and grace that was nothing short of breathtaking. Their routine was a vibrant tapestry of choreographed movements that showcased their skill and the exhilarating potential of burlesque. The execution was flawless, embodying the spirit of the show with every gesture and gaze, inviting the audience into a world where the extraordinary was the norm. Their performance was a testament to the transformative power of burlesque, proving once again that the art form is an explosion of talent, creativity, and theatrical flair. As they concluded their act, the Sinful Sorella left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of all who witnessed their spellbinding showcase, further elevating the evening's standard of excellence and leaving the audience yearning for the next spectacle.

With a display of unrivalled sophistication, the Featherstone Foxes enraptured the assembly as they took centre stage, their presence heralded by the opulent sweep of ostrich fans. Adorned in a harmonious ensemble of corsets, ruffle shorts, stockings, and tights, they encapsulated the quintessence of burlesque allure. Their routine to ‘Perhaps Perhaps Perhaps’ was an exquisite exhibition of artistry and finesse, each movement executed with meticulous precision. As they navigated through their performance, the elegance of their choreography was accentuated by the seductive flutter of fans, creating a spectacle of shadows and allure against the stage lights. The audience was visibly moved, their enthusiasm manifesting in a crescendo of applause and cheers, captivated by the Foxy Foxes’ ability to weave an atmosphere of enchantment. Each step, each turn, was a testament to their mastery of the burlesque art form, leaving those in attendance spellbound by the beauty and poignancy of their performance. The Featherstone Foxes, with their bewitching display, affirmed the enduring charm and sophistication of burlesque, ensuring that the memory of their act would linger long in the minds of the audience.

Scarlett Valentine, from Selby Starlets, truly captivated everyone with her act to 'Cherry Pie'. Adorned in an outfit that sizzled with seduction, she effortlessly charmed the crowd, playfully engaging them with a suggestive use of fresh cream. As the music enveloped the room, she skilfully disrobed, synchronising each movement to the rhythm, ultimately revealing her pasties amidst a decadent plate of fresh cream. This moment was not just a performance, it was an experience, enveloping the audience in a wave of excitement and wonder. Scarlett Valentine's artistry on stage was nothing short of mesmerising, leaving every spectator buzzing with energy and applause. Her performance was a highlight of the evening, illustrating the unpredictable thrill that burlesque brings to the stage, and proving that she was indeed a master of her craft.

Pixie Bella, from Selby Starlets, injected an electrifying dose of rock 'n' roll into the evening with her rendition of ‘I Believe In A Thing Called Love’. Her entrance was a spectacle, bounding onto the stage with a vibrancy that captured everyone's attention from the get-go. Clad in a pink wig that added an extra layer of dynamism to her persona, she delivered an unforgettable lip-syncing and dance routine that was both engaging and lively. The audience was treated to an array of props that complemented her energetic performance, each one enhancing the rock theme she embodied so well. The finale of her act, marked by explosive energy and adorned with pink fluffy pasties, was met with an outpouring of applause from the captivated crowd. Pixie Bella’s performance was a testament to her versatility as an entertainer, effortlessly combining the worlds of rock music and burlesque into a memorable showcase that left the audience buzzing with excitement.

Coral Kisses, hailing from Featherstone Follies, truly epitomised the essence of glamour with her enthralling rendition of Patricia The Stripper. Adorning herself in the finest burlesque attire, she was the very image of sophistication. Her performance was a captivating blend of allure and poise, with every movement meticulously crafted to enchant the onlookers. From the moment the music commenced, she commanded the stage, weaving a narrative of seduction through her expressive gestures and captivating facial expressions. It was a masterclass in the art of burlesque, marked by her innate ability to engage with the audience on a profoundly emotive level. Her act was not just a dance, it was an invitation into a world of elegance and mystery, leaving the audience enraptured. Coral Kisses' performance was a dazzling display of the transformative power of burlesque, highlighting the delicate balance between vulnerability and strength that defines the genre.

The trio from Featherstone Follies' rendition of the ‘Hanky Panky’ routine was a masterclass in synchronisation and charisma, captivating the crowd from the moment they graced the stage. Draped initially in silk black gowns, the reveal to their black tassel dresses signalled the start of an electrifying performance that perfectly encapsulated the spirit of Madonna’s iconic number. Sidewalk Sally, Foxy Hart, and Lady Fiametta Flange were in their element, moving with a precision and energy that held the audience spellbound. Their seamless transitions and dynamic presence on stage brought a fresh vibrancy to the well-loved track, demonstrating the timeless appeal of burlesque. With every twirl and pose, they channelled the essence of the song, engaging with the crowd in a way that felt both intimate and grandiose. Their act was an exhilarating blend of nostalgia and novelty, ensuring that the applause which followed was as spirited as their performance.

Grandma Licious, a starlet from the Selby Starlets, presented an awe-inspiring transformation that was the talk of the Burlesque Ball. Her act began innocuously, with her pushing a little trolley and distributing sweets, embodying the quintessential grandmother figure. However, the atmosphere shifted dramatically as the music transitioned, and so did Grandma Licious. Casting aside her elderly guise, she revealed a dazzling ensemble beneath - a corset paired with ruffle shorts and stockings, much to the delight of the audience. Her routine didn't end there; she daringly proceeded to unveil her sparkly tassels, a move that encapsulated the essence of burlesque's transformative power. Her act was not merely a performance but a statement of vibrancy, challenging preconceived notions about age and vitality. The crowd's roaring approval was testament to the indelible impact of her performance, marking a highlight of the evening's entertainment. Grandma Licious exemplified the unexpected surprises that burlesque can offer, leaving the audience both charmed and exhilarated by her audacious display.

The atmosphere was charged with excitement as Goole Goddesses elegantly made their entrance, their routine 'All That Jazz' captivating the audience from the outset. Adorned in shimmering tassel bras, ruffle shorts, and fishnet tights, they embodied the essence of cabaret, weaving through their performance with a finesse that left the room spellbound. Each movement was a testament to their grace, their leg lines and poses painting pictures of elegance and strength against the backdrop of the stage. As they reached the crescendo of their performance, the reveal of their tassels was met with a thunderous applause, a fitting tribute to their spectacular display. This act not only set a high standard for the evening but also showcased the diverse artistry and empowerment at the heart of Burlesque With Paris, leaving the audience eagerly anticipating what was yet to come.

Paris Chantilly's entrance was nothing short of theatrical brilliance as she graced the stage with 'Medusa's Fury'. With a snake headdress crowning her head and her costume glittering under the spotlight, she was the epitome of drama and intensity. Her dance, a masterful blend of belly dancing with a veil that shifted effortlessly to poi and then to silk fans, showcased her remarkable agility and control. The fluidity of her movements, combined with the dramatic flair of her props, held the audience spellbound. Each step and twirl was executed with precision, her leg lines and poses a visual treat that underscored the narrative of her performance. As Paris navigated the stage, her energy and passion were palpable, drawing the crowd into the world she created with every movement. The thunderous applause that followed her routine was a testament to the spell she had cast over everyone present, leaving an indelible mark on the evening's festivities.

The evening took a playful turn as the second half began, bringing with it a delightful surprise that deviated from the traditional performances witnessed thus far. Six unsuspecting gentlemen from the audience found themselves at the centre of attention, handpicked for an extraordinary escapade into the world of boylesque. Under the guiding light of Paris Chantilly, who danced with infectious enthusiasm on the dance floor, these men embarked on a journey beyond their comfort zones. Clad in boas and met with the encouragement of the crowd, they displayed an array of boa techniques that ranged from the comedic to the surprisingly graceful. This segment, cheekily titled 'Welcome To Burlesque', not only infused the evening with a sense of camaraderie and amusement but also underscored the inclusive and celebratory spirit of burlesque. Witnessing these partners and husbands wholeheartedly embracing the essence of boylesque, with smiles plastered across their faces, added a refreshing layer to the show's dynamic tapestry. It was a vivid reminder that burlesque, in all its forms, champions the joy of performance and the breaking of conventional boundaries, inviting everyone to partake in its revelry.

As anticipation reached a fever pitch, Hull Honeys made a spectacular entrance, ready to set the stage ablaze with their 'Feeling Good' routine. Cloaked in black tassel dresses, paired with stockings and tights, they embodied the essence of seductive allure. Their performance, a masterclass in the art of tease, saw them moving with a confidence that held the audience in rapt attention. With each carefully choreographed step, they shed layers, eventually revealing the strategically placed tassels and pasties that elicited roars of approval from the crowd. This act wasn't just a dance, it was a statement of empowerment and artistry, a celebration of the body and its ability to mesmerise and entertain. Hull Honeys, through their daring and bold routine, not only captivated those watching but also seamlessly ushered in the heightened energy and excitement for the remaining acts of the evening. Their performance was a vivid illustration of burlesque's enduring charm and its ability to enthral an audience, ensuring that the second half of the show commenced with an unforgettable bang.

Sinful Sorella stole the evening with a captivating display of talent when they took to the stage, mesmerising the audience with their performance of 'Dolls House'. Dressed in stunning ballerina outfits, they flawlessly executed a routine that left the spectators in awe. Their skilled movements, combined with surprising elements in their act, created a magical atmosphere that filled the venue. Their performance was met with rapturous applause, setting a high standard for the rest of the acts to follow and leaving the audience eager for what was still to come.

With the stage bathed in a mysterious light, Ja Ja Lamour emerged, cloaked in an aura of enigmatic charm for her rendition of 'Evil Night Together'. Her ensemble, a vision in black, melded seamlessly with the theme of her act, evoking a sense of dark beauty that was both intoxicating and entrancing. The audience was held captive by her every movement; her performance was a dance of shadows, each step and turn a whisper of seduction. Ja Ja's masterful facial expressions added layers of depth to her act, painting a story of allure and mystery with each glance and smirk. As the performance reached its climax, the intensity of the audience's applause mirrored the passion and energy that Ja Ja Amour poured into her act, a testament to her ability to weave a spell of dark seduction over all who watched.

As the lights dimmed, the stage was set for Delicious Denise from Selby Sirens, who captivated the audience with her performance of 'Big Spender' by Shirley Bassey. With an air of sophistication, Delicious Denise began her act, adorned in a dazzling dress that sparkled under the spotlight. As the music swelled, she skillfully removed her gloves, each movement oozing classic burlesque glamour with a modern twist. Her mastery with the boa was nothing short of spectacular, commanding the room's attention and drawing everyone into her performance. The energy was palpable as Delicious Denise moved with grace and confidence, her routine embodying the essence of traditional burlesque while injecting her unique flair. The audience's response was overwhelming, their applause and cheers a testament to Delicious Denise's ability to enchant and entertain, proving once again the timeless appeal of classic burlesque glamour, reimagined for a contemporary audience.

Heather Ann Lace from Selby Sirens graced the stage with a performance that perfectly encapsulated the essence of drama and sensuality. To the evocative strains of 'Dirty Laundry' by Carrie Underwood, she embarked on a journey of artistic expression that captivated all who watched. As she began to disrobe, revealing more of her form, the atmosphere became charged with anticipation. The silk fans in her hands became extensions of her being, fluttering with a delicate yet powerful elegance. The crowd was spellbound, their reactions ranging from hushed awe to enthusiastic acclaim. With each reveal and every movement, Heather Ann Lace wove a narrative of allure and mystique, her performance a bold statement of the power inherent in sensuality and self-expression. The audience's roaring applause was a fitting response to a spectacle that not only entertained but also challenged and intrigued, a testament to the transformative power of burlesque.

The stage was alight once again as Featherstone Follies made their entrance, ready to enchant the audience with their routine to 'Bump and Grinds'. The ensemble, a vision of coordination and flair, captured the essence of group performance with remarkable precision. Their skill in manipulating their accessories - gloves and boas - added an extra layer of intrigue and sophistication to their act. Each movement, whether it was the strategic removal of a glove or the playful twirling of a boa, was executed with an elegance that held the audience spellbound. The synchronicity of their movements, coupled with the rhythmic bumps and grinds in perfect harmony with the music, created an atmosphere of collective anticipation and excitement. With tassels swirling in unison, Featherstone Follies left an indelible mark on the Burlesque Ball, their performance a vibrant testament to the power and beauty of group choreography in the realm of burlesque.

The evening's festivities were inaugurated with a spellbinding performance by Femme Fatal, from Goole Goddesses. Clad in a resplendent gold costume complemented by a feather mask, she brought the essence of ‘Adiemus’ to life through her dance. Beginning her routine on the floor, Femme Fatal seamlessly transitioned to her feet, gracefully manoeuvring silk fans with finesse. Her performance was nothing short of exquisite, holding the audience captive with her elegance and creative prowess. The theatre reverberated with thunderous applause in appreciation of her artistry, perfectly setting the tone for the night's array of spectacular performances. Her act was a beautiful testament to the transformative power of burlesque, combining aesthetic grace with captivating theatricality.

The stage was next set ablaze with the captivating allure of Princess Amethyst, Emerald Mistress, and Pink Splender. As the lights dimmed, these enchantresses from Goole Goddesses emerged, casting an irresistible charm over the audience with their rendition of 'Hocus Pocus - I Put A Spell On You'. Their attire, a dazzling ensemble of sequined tassel bras paired with fluttering organza skirts, mirrored the mystical theme of their act, enchanting the spectators with a blend of seduction and fantasy. The trio's synchronised choreography and palpable chemistry proved to be the perfect ingredients for a mesmerising performance. Their dynamic portrayal of the iconic witches not only captivated but also thrilled the audience, creating an atmosphere brimming with energy and excitement. As they moved across the stage, their performance was a harmonious blend of whimsy and allure, ensuring that every eye remained fixated on their spellbinding act. Their collective charisma and theatrical prowess turned their performance into an unforgettable spectacle, solidifying their place as highlight performers of the evening. The applause that followed was testament to their ability to enchant and entertain, making their act a memorable highlight of the Burlesque With Paris Burlesque Ball.

Draped in an ensemble of black lingerie and enveloping fishnet tights, Temptress L’Animal, the proclaimed Queen of Sinful Sorella, took to the stage, casting a shadow of allure and mystery. Her choice of music, 'Russian Roulette', set a dark and seductive tone that resonated through her every move. With unparalleled grace, she explored the depths of sensual dance, her body articulating each note and emotion of the song through spellbinding floor work. Her routine was an embodiment of temptation, drawing the audience into a world where each movement spoke volumes of untold stories and forbidden desires. The palpable intensity of her performance held spectators in a trance, with every swivel and sway accentuating the raw power and elegance of burlesque. As she concluded her act, the atmosphere was charged with a mix of awe and fervent admiration. The applause that erupted was not just in recognition of her technical prowess but for the audacity and passion with which she laid bare the essence of sin and seduction. Through her performance, Temptress L’Animal proved to be an unforgettable figure of the night, weaving a tapestry of enigmatic allure that left an indelible mark on the Burlesque With Paris Burlesque Ball.

As the echoes of the 2019 Burlesque With Paris Burlesque Ball fade into memory, the impact of that night's performances continues to resonate. The stage was a canvas for the Burlesque With Paris students, who painted it with their unique expressions of burlesque, showcasing an array of talent and creativity that captivated all who were present. These performers, whilst not globe-trotting superstars, have indelibly etched themselves into the annals of their local burlesque scene as the superstars of 2019.

Their dedication to the art form and their ability to communicate stories, emotions, and fantasies through dance have not only enriched the cultural tapestry of the Burlesque With Paris community but also set a high benchmark for future aspirants. The legacy they leave is one of inspiration and aspiration; a beacon for emerging talents who wish to explore the boundless creativity and expression that burlesque offers.

The anticipation for what the next wave of performers will bring to the stage is palpable, promising a future as bright and dazzling as the performances witnessed at the Burlesque Ball. The 2019 stars have indeed laid down a formidable legacy, paving the way for the evolution and growth of the art in their wake.

Burlesque With Paris Performance Awards

Best Solo 2019 - Scarlett Valentine

Best Small Group 2019 - Sidewalk Sally, Foxy Hart, Lady Fiametta Flange (Featherstone Follies)

Best Class 2019- Hull Honeys

To ALL of our incredible ladies who are in all of our classes you really all are spectacular in every way and make all of us instructors at Burlesque With Paris so proud. To see you up on that stage is all about what we are. Never stop being your own kind of beautiful as each and every one of you are amazing and different which is why our shows are so fabulous as you all bring with you your own style and variety. It’s magical to see and extraordinary to watch.

Thank you to the Dream Girls for being as incredible as you are and hosting our Annual Show.

Thank you to my wonderful husband Lucious Lockie for videoing the show and John Utton from John Utton Photography for photographing the show.

Paris Chantilly xxxxxx