Melbourne Burlesque Workshops with Tito Bonito

Melbourne!

Join legendary burlesque performer Tito Bonito for a series of exclusive burlesque workshops! Tito has been featured in the 21st Century Burlesque Top 50 from 2019-2023 and has been awarded Burlesque Hall of Fame 2017 'Most Comedic'. Do not miss your chance to learn essential burlesque skills from one of the best in the business.

Location:

JC Ministry Of Dance (Studio 2)

1/64 Sutton St, North Melbourne VIC 3051, Australia

Date:

Sunday 1st September 2024

Hosting 101 Workshop

Time:

10:15 am - 11:45 am

Difficulty Level: All Levels

Whether you're stepping onto the stage for the first time or looking to refine your hosting skills, Hosting 101 Workshop with the legendary Tito Bonito is your gateway to becoming a confident and professional emcee. Tito, a master of ceremonies for countless productions across the United States and a fixture at the Burlesque Hall of Fame, brings his wealth of experience to this 90-minute lecture and discussion workshop designed to equip you with the essential tools for success.

Skills Covered:

• Introduction to Emceeing: Begin with a brief introduction to the art of hosting, where Tito will share his journey and the key elements that make a strong and employable emcee. This section sets the stage for understanding the role and responsibilities of an emcee in various types of productions.
• Respect On and Off Stage: Learn the importance of respect in all aspects of hosting, from interacting with performers and crew backstage to engaging with the audience. Tito will guide you on how to maintain professionalism, build positive relationships, and create a supportive environment for everyone involved in the show.
• Handling Last-Minute Changes: Discover strategies for staying calm and adaptable when things don’t go as planned. Tito will share his tips on how to manage unexpected changes, keep the show running smoothly, and turn potential challenges into opportunities for success.
• Finding Your Voice: Explore how to develop your unique voice and style as an emcee. Tito will help you tap into your personality, strengths, and creativity to craft a hosting persona that stands out and resonates with your audience.
• Technical Needs of a Production: Gain an understanding of the technical aspects of hosting to best coordinate with the production team. Tito will cover the essentials that every emcee needs to know to ensure a seamless and polished performance.
• Flow & Pacing: Learn how to keep the energy up and the show flowing smoothly. Tito will teach you how to manage the pacing of the event, keep the audience engaged, and transition between acts with ease and confidence.
• Interactive Discussion & Practice: Throughout the workshop, students will have the opportunity to ask questions, engage in discussions, and participate in debates sparked by Tito’s insights. If time allows, the final 20-30 minutes will be dedicated to a practical exercise where students can practise introducing their peers, honing their public speaking and hosting skills in a supportive environment.

Supplies Needed:

Please bring something to take notes with, whether it’s a pen and paper or a laptop.

Hosting 101 is perfect for anyone looking to improve their public speaking skills, gain confidence on stage, or aspire to become a sought-after host in the world of burlesque and beyond. Join Tito Bonito for this comprehensive and inspiring workshop that will leave you ready to take the mic with confidence!

Assels 101 Workshop

Time:

12:00 pm - 1:30 pm

Difficulty Level: All Levels

Everyone loves butts and they cannot lie! Give your shimmies a break and learn the art of assels with this 90-minute course that will put your booty to work! Whether you just want to add a little extra tease to your next routine or just learn a new trick, you will be twirling butt tassels before you know it. Tito has taught this course all over the world, and it's finally coming to Australia!

Skills Covered:

• Warm-Up & Stretch: Begin with a gentle stretch to get your body warmed up and ready to move. This essential step ensures that you’re limber and prepared to get the most out of the class.
• Tassel Twirling History: Learn about the rich history of tassel and butt tassel twirling, discovering how this playful and provocative art form has evolved over the years. Tito will share fascinating insights and anecdotes that will deepen your appreciation for this unique burlesque skill.
• Twirling Techniques & Tricks: Dive into the main event—learning the techniques and tricks of butt tassel twirling! Tito will guide you through step-by-step instructions on how to get those tassels spinning. From basic twirls to more advanced moves, you’ll learn how to control your tassels with confidence and flair.
• Improvised Performance: Put your new skills to the test with an improv performance at the end of the class. This is your chance to showcase your tassel-twirling talents in a fun and supportive environment, applying what you’ve learned in a playful, spontaneous routine.

Supplies Needed:

Please bring a pair of tassels and wear comfortable clothes and sneakers. It’s recommended to have two pairs of underwear: ideally, boy shorts or briefs, and a jockstrap or g-string that allows you to comfortably attach pasties and tassels. While students won’t need to show their butts during the class, you’ll be able to practise the tricks learned in class at home.

ASSELS 101 is suitable for dancers of all levels, whether you're a burlesque performer looking to spice up your act or just curious about trying something new. Join Tito Bonito for a workshop that’s sure to be as entertaining as it is empowering, and leave with a new trick up your sleeve—or rather, on your derrière!

Improv for Burlesque Workshop

Time:

1:45 pm - 3:15 pm

Difficulty Level: All Levels

Improvisation is a vital skill for any burlesque performer, allowing you to adapt to any stage, audience, or unexpected moment with ease and flair. In the Improv for Burlesque Workshop, American burlesque legend Tito Bonito will guide you through the essentials of mastering this invaluable art form. Whether you're engaging in crowd work, adjusting your act for different stage sizes, or reacting to the unexpected, this workshop will give you the tools to become a more versatile and confident performer.

Skills Covered:

• Breathing & Warm-Up Exercises: Begin the class with a series of breathing and warm-up exercises designed to centre your mind and body. This will prepare you for the improvisational work ahead, ensuring you're relaxed, focused, and ready to move.
• Improv Exercises: Dive into a variety of improvisation exercises that will challenge you to think on your feet and explore new creative possibilities. Tito will lead you through activities that enhance your ability to adapt, react, and stay present in the moment, crucial skills for any live performer.
• Individual Improv Performances: Apply what you’ve learned in individual improv performances at the end of the class. This is your opportunity to put your newfound skills into practice, experimenting with different ideas and approaches in a supportive and encouraging environment.
• Adaptability & Versatility: Learn how to adjust your acts to suit different stage sizes and audience dynamics. Tito will share his insights on how to modify your performance on the fly, ensuring that you're always prepared to deliver a captivating show, no matter the circumstances.
• Crowd Work Techniques: Explore the art of engaging with your audience in real-time. Tito will teach you how to read a room, interact with the crowd, and make your performance feel spontaneous and dynamic.

Supplies Needed:

Wear clothes that you’re comfortable moving in. If you prefer, or if you want to work on stripping out of something specific, feel free to bring costume pieces to practise with.

Improv for Burlesque is perfect for performers of all levels, whether you're new to the stage or looking to refine your improvisational skills. Join Tito Bonito in this dynamic workshop, and leave with the confidence and adaptability to handle any performance challenge with grace and style.

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Inclusivity:

I believe that burlesque is for everyone, regardless of gender or body type. My classes are a safe and welcoming space for all, and I welcome individuals of all backgrounds, identities, and skill levels. Whether you are a beginner or have some dance experience, you are welcome to join me in celebrating your body, exploring movement, and developing your skills. I aim to create an inclusive environment where all can feel comfortable expressing themselves and learning at their own pace. So, don't worry if you are new to dance, I am here to support and encourage you through every bump, grind, and shimmy.

What To Bring:

Please bring a towel and water bottle.

You are welcome to bring a pen and paper/notebook to take notes during the workshops, but it is not required.

Dance heels are required for most workshops, please check the individual workshop descriptions.

Kneepads are recommended for any floorwork, please check the individual workshop descriptions.

Dress Code:

I want you to feel comfortable and confident during class, so wear something that makes you feel good! Leggings, shorts, and a singlet are all great options. You're also welcome to wear lingerie or any other clothing that makes you feel sexy. However, please make sure you are able to move freely and safely in whatever you choose to wear.

In addition, I recommend wearing dance heels if possible. This will help you practice proper stance and technique, and will give you a better feel for the classic burlesque style. However, if you're not comfortable in heels, you're welcome to wear flat dance shoes or bare feet. Whatever you choose, make sure you feel comfortable and confident to strut your stuff!