ilLustrious Dance and Burlesque
ProHighlights
- Private burlesque, showgirl, drag and line-dancing sessions built for hens nights, birthdays and work groups.
- Upstairs studio in Civic with full-length mirrors, a stage, lighting and a licensed bar setup.
- Queer-owned and run, with beginner-friendly teachers who welcome every body and every level of experience.
About ilLustrious Dance and Burlesque
ilLustrious Dance and Burlesque is a queer-owned studio upstairs on East Row in Civic, close to the bus interchange. Its weekly timetable covers burlesque, showgirl, heels floorwork, silk fans, jazz funk and contemporary ballet, and the same teachers run private experiences for groups who want a class of their own. The party menu includes Burlesque Bombshell, with gloves, boas and classic tease moves, and Showgirl Sass, a cabaret-style session of high kicks, struts and feathers. Rhinestone Cowgirl has guests decorating cowboy hats before a line-dancing lesson with a glass of bubbles, while the Drag Diva session focuses on strutting, posing and owning the room. Custom packages can be shaped around a theme, a workshop or a mix of dance and craft. Packages suit hens parties, birthdays and corporate groups, and they are priced on a minimum of 10 guests whatever the final headcount. When you get in touch, share guest numbers, the style you have in mind, your preferred date and whether you would like food and drinks arranged, and the studio puts together a quote. The space has full-length mirrors, a performance stage, a kitchen area, a private change room, heating and cooling, and a bar the team can run under its liquor licence. The studio is up a large flight of stairs, so mention any access needs early. No dance background is needed, and joining in on stage is always optional.
Inclusions & amenities
Activity type
Price range (per person)
Setting
Pricing
Food
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Availability
What's Included
Frequently asked questions
How much does a private dance party cost?
Custom party packages start at $35 a guest. Burlesque Bombshell and Showgirl Sass are $40 a guest, Rhinestone Cowgirl is $45 (or $60 with hats supplied) and the Drag Diva session is $60. Pricing is based on at least 10 guests.
Do we need any dance experience?
No. The studio caters to complete beginners as well as seasoned performers, and teachers adjust the pace to the group. Performing in front of others is always optional.
What should guests wear?
Activewear works well for most sessions. Bring heels you can move safely in if the class uses them, and for line dancing avoid very grippy soles so you can slide your feet.
Can we have drinks and food at our party?
Yes. Rhinestone Cowgirl includes a glass of bubbly, and the studio holds a liquor licence and can run the bar. Let the team know if you would like food and drinks arranged when you ask for a quote.
Where is the studio and is it accessible?
The studio is upstairs at 35 East Row in Civic, beside the bus interchange. Access is via a large flight of stairs, so raise any mobility needs before booking and the team will try to help.
Where we are
Suitable occasions
Silas
3 months ago
All my experiences at illustrious have been great. I’ve attended a fitness class here, and the vibes were 10/10. Fun, energetic, inclusive and good vibes. Bonus points for the adorable cat Luna who joined the class. Per…
Billie D'Elboux
3 months ago
Illustrious has become my home away from home. I started beginners lessons this term and I have never felt so welcomed in a new space. Eureka who is the beginners burlesque dance teacher, is incredibly talented, supporti…
Rachel Williams (RBDS)
8 months ago
The only inclusive dance space in Canberra. Lola Lust is one of Canberra’s best burlesque performers. Now she has an amazing studio teaching every kind of dance. You feel welcome from the moment you step into the studio.
Emily Cunich
9 months ago
Illustrious is truly my happy place. It is my go to for dance classes, birthday parties, studio hire, entertainment, you name it! If you want to find a place to dance without the competitive, exclusive attitude associat…
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