My Summer Adventure in Fringe, Fringe, and More Fringe!
While backstage during a performance of The Magic Flute, I turned to fellow dancer Nicole Tristram and asked, “I'll be in town this summer — got any ideas for something fun and different I could try?”
She told me about a burlesque class she took last year and loved. I figured — hey, I did showgirl work in Vegas, and even appeared in Showgirls — I could probably teach a class. But I’m not a choreographer. I like being on stage.
Nicole showed me a video of one of her routines, set to a number from Chicago. That did it — I looked up the studio she attended, Dancing with Victoria. It turns out Victoria Lane has been running a weekly burlesque class for 18 years with a loyal following. So I signed up.
For six weeks, a group of fifteen of us learned a fun, flirty routine — no rhinestones, no bras, no boas. Just good old-fashioned cowgirl flair set to Shania Twain, very much in the spirit of The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas and reminiscent of work I’ve done with Walter and Charlene Painter. Sexy, yes — but with a wink, not a blush.
Our group bringing the cowgirl charm — Shania style!
What I didn’t expect? The studio was celebrating its 15th anniversary and throwing a big party — and Victoria asked us to open the show. Just like that, our fifteen dancers became six. But the show must go on!
That night, the ballroom was packed with professionals and their students from all over Florida. During breaks, the dance floor would fill with people showing off their skills. I’ve never been part of that world — and it was incredible to watch. They’re passionate, joyful, and totally dedicated.
Different angle, same energy — pure fun!
One dancer in particular, Brent Hyskell, caught my eye. Picture a leading man in a ballroom drama — elegant, confident, and clearly a master of the form. He’s a champion dancer who’s run multiple studios, and his students, of all ages and backgrounds, were beautiful to watch. He’s an artist, and I don’t say that lightly.
Victoria herself danced with us, then jumped into several other numbers with her students — changing outfits left and right — and her choreography? Playful, sultry, energetic. She’s built a space for people to dance and thrive.
Honestly, I didn’t think burlesque would be back in my life this year. But I’m so glad it was.
