Academy of Burlesque, Seattle

Profiled in the documentary A Wink and a Smile, Miss Indigo Blue’s Academy of Burlesque keeps the sensual burlesque dance-form alive during one-day and muti-week classes. The academy’s faculty includes not only the accomplished Miss Indigo Blue, but also professional burlesquers Inga, Elsa & Ernie von Schmaltz, Ruby Mimosa, Moscato Extatique, Amara Strutt and Waxie Moon—whose names hint at the playful nature of burlesque. The diverse class schedule offers something to bring out the sensual side in nearly anyone, female or male, earning praise from Seattle Woman magazine for its breadth of topics and from Examiner.com for its receptivity to all genders. Class is taught in bare feet, socks, or dance sneakers. Character shoes with ankle straps permitted.