Celebrating 6 Years Of Dazzling Burlesque With The Featherstone Follies…

Featherstone Follies is celebrating its 6th anniversary, and what a spectacular journey it has been!

Under the guidance of the fabulous Paris, the Featherstone Follies have been shimmying and twirling through routines, honing their burlesque skills, and creating unforgettable performances. Let's take a look back at the past year and celebrate the glitz and glamour of the Featherstone Follies.

A Year Of Spectacular Routines…

Over the past twelve months, the Featherstone Follies have embarked on a mesmerising journey through the art of burlesque, mastering a diverse array of routines that have not only challenged but also showcased their burgeoning talents. The year kicked off with a flourish, as Term 3 saw our performers embrace the elegance of the Feather Fan Dance in "Smash" with majestic ostrich fans. The allure of the spotlight intensified in Term 4 with "That Man," where trilby hats and sequin skirts glittered in the ShowGirl Burlesque theme, capturing the quintessence of classic burlesque allure.

As the year progressed, the Follies delved into the glitzy world of Broadway Burlesque with "All That Jazz," donning trilby hats and fringe skirts, epitomising the vibrant spirit of the roaring twenties. Term 6's Bump and Grind Burlesque to "Fire In My Head" saw our performers enveloped in shimmer capes and gloves, bringing a sultry edge to the stage with their captivating routines.

Not one to rest on their laurels, the group embraced the festive spirit in Term 7 with "Santa Baby" in a ShowGirl Burlesque theme that required no props, yet their performances were anything but simple, relying purely on their talent and charisma to convey the song's sultry message. The transition into 2024 marked a shift towards innovative interpretations with Neo Burlesque's "Come Together," featuring shirts and ties, and the Classic Burlesque routine "Love For Sale," where umbrellas became the accessory du jour, adding a layer of intrigue and sophistication to their performances.

These routines, each distinct in its theme and execution, have not only enriched the Follies' repertoire but have also been a testament to their versatility and unwavering commitment to the art of burlesque. The journey through these terms has been nothing short of spectacular,

reflecting the boundless creativity and passion that defines the Featherstone Follies.

Over the year our students in Featherstone Follies have mastered and learned…

2023

Term 3 - Feather Fan Dance - Smash - Ostrich Fans

Term 4 - ShowGirl Burlesque - That Man - Trilby Hats and Sequin Skirts

Term 5 - Broadway Burlesque - All That Jazz - Trilby Hats and Fringe Skirts

Term 6 - Bump and Grind Burlesque - Fire In My Head - Shimmer Capes and Gloves

Term 7 - ShowGirl Burlesque - Santa Baby - No Props

2024

Term 1 - Neo Burlesque - Come Together - Shirts and Ties

Term 2 - Classic Burlesque - Love For Sale - Umbrellas

The Glitz And Glamour Of The Burlesque Ball 2023…

The Burlesque Ball at Drax Sports and Social Club proved to be a spectacle of talent and glamour, a true testament to the culmination of a year's hard work and passion by the Featherstone Follies. This glittering event, held on the 11th of November, showcased the remarkable skills and creativity that have been nurtured within the troupe. The stage was set ablaze with performances that ranged from group acts to soul-stirring solo numbers, each infused with its own unique flair and personality.

Among the standout moments was the electrifying group performance by the Featherstone Follies to 'Fire In My Head', a routine that perfectly captured the essence of burlesque with its sultry moves and captivating presence. Not to be outshone, solo acts by Selene Citrine, Ruby July, Roxy Starr, Bohemian Beauty, Coral Kisses, Emerald Fuego and Big Red demonstrated the diverse talents within the group, from the seductive allure of classic burlesque to the innovative twists of neo burlesque. These performances not only entertained but also highlighted the performers' growth and evolution over the past year.

The evening was also a platform for recognition, with awards acknowledging the exceptional dedication and improvement of the Featherstone Follies. The spirit of camaraderie and shared achievement was palpable as accolades were bestowed, underscoring the supportive and nurturing environment that is a hallmark of the Featherstone Follies. It was a night that went beyond mere performance, it was a celebration of art, expression, and the enduring bond among the members of the troupe.

The Burlesque Ball, with its array of dazzling performances, once again affirmed the status of the Featherstone Follies as a beacon of burlesque artistry, leaving attendees eagerly anticipating what the next year will bring for this extraordinary ensemble.

Celebrating Our Stars Class Awards Of 2023…

In the spotlight of our sixth-anniversary celebrations, the Featherstone Follies took a moment to honour the remarkable achievements of its members with the class awards of 2023, a testament to the passion, dedication, and sheer talent that radiates within our troupe. Bohemian Beauty, whose stage presence and artistic expressions have captivated us all, was fittingly crowned Star of the Class, a title that echoes her luminous impact on and off the stage.

Miss Dedicated was awarded to Selene Citrine, a performer whose unwavering commitment and tireless work ethic have not only elevated her performances but have also inspired her fellow Follies to push the boundaries of their own potential. Selene's journey through the year has been a beacon of dedication, showing that passion and perseverance truly do pay off in the art of burlesque.

Meanwhile, Big Red was celebrated as Miss Most Improved, a nod to her incredible journey of growth and self-improvement. Through each

term, Big Red has shown an exceptional ability to embrace feedback, hone her skills, and step into the spotlight with increased confidence and flair. Her evolution as a performer has been both inspiring and remarkable, demonstrating the transformative power of commitment and creativity.

These awards, each highlighting a unique aspect of burlesque excellence, reflect not just individual achievements but the collective spirit and supportive ethos that define the Featherstone Follies. As we celebrated these stars, it was a moment to acknowledge the hard work, resilience, and artistry that each member brings to the troupe, making it a beacon of burlesque brilliance in the heart of our community.

The Dazzling Triumph Of Selene Citrine And Ruby July…

The performance by Selene Citrine and Ruby July at the Burlesque Ball was an absolute spectacle, embodying the very essence of burlesque with their unparalleled synergy and captivating presence on stage. Their routine, a harmonious blend of elegance and sensuality, left the audience spellbound, earning them the coveted Best Double Performance award. Adorned in glittering costumes that sparkled under the spotlight, they moved with a fluidity and grace that seemed almost otherworldly. It was their night, a moment where their hard work and dedication to their craft were recognised and celebrated. Their triumph at the Burlesque Ball not only highlighted their exceptional talent but also set a high standard for what can be achieved through passion and teamwork in the Burlesque With Paris realm.

Exploring New Heights With Workshops…

The year's exploration was not just confined to the scintillating performances and routines that have become a hallmark of the Featherstone Follies; it also branched out into unique and innovative workshops, adding new dimensions to the troupe's already versatile repertoire. The Bubblelicious Balloon Workshop, held on the 2nd of March 2024, stands as a testament to this adventurous spirit. This evening was an ebullient departure from the usual, inviting members to engage in an uproarious escapade of balloon popping, all choreographed to the rhythm of the Lollipop routine. The workshop was not merely about the act of popping balloons; it was a celebration of joy, an exercise in breaking free from the norm, and an opportunity to embrace the unexpected with open arms.

The laughter and smiles that filled the room were indicative of the infectious energy and camaraderie that pervade the Featherstone Follies. Participants, armed with lollipops, danced their way through the routine, popping balloons at key moments, a feat that proved to be as challenging as it was amusing. The whimsical nature of this workshop underscored a vital aspect of the troupe's philosophy: the importance of playfulness and creativity in the pursuit of artistic expression. It served as a vivid reminder that the essence of burlesque is not only found in the precision of a well-executed routine but also in the unbridled joy of performance.

As we mark the sixth anniversary of Featherstone Follies, I want to express my deepest gratitude to every single one of you who have been a part of this incredible journey. Your dedication, talent, and passion have not only enriched this troupe but also my life in countless ways. Each laugh shared, challenges overcome, and performance perfected has contributed to the vibrant tapestry that Featherstone Follies is today.

Happy 6th Anniversary To All My Fabulous Follies

“Where does time go… I can’t believe it has been 6 years and what an incredible 6 years it has been. Thank you for being the Fabulous Follies that you all are and let’s have another year of fabulous routines, magnificent props and spectacular performances”

Paris xxxxx

Ever harboured a desire to shimmer beneath the spotlight and channel your inner glamour?

Featherstone Follies extends a warm invitation to you, offering an extraordinary opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of burlesque.