Testimonials

“One of the best things I have ever done was kick myself in the hiney, and apply for amateurlesque. It started out as something I wanted to do for my burlesque loving husband, but it turned out to be just as much for me. The friendships that developed and the camaraderie among the performers was more than I could have asked for. My mentor was supportive and helped bring out my creativity without pushing her own style onto me. And then there was the boost of confidence in my movements and my body!! There was nothing like hearing the crowd, except of course, seeing the amazement in my husband’s eyes as I performed. I would be an amateur every year if I could.”
— Mango Boom Boom 2018 Amateurlesque Performer
“Doing Amateurlesque was one of the highlights of 2017 for me. I got to see part of the process as an outsider while my boyfriend participated in the first one, and I knew it was something I wanted to do also. As a performer, it was invaluable to have my mentor to guide me and give me more structure to the daunting task of building an act from the ground up. I learned the process of creating an act as well as concrete skills like hair, makeup, and costuming that I’ve been able to use again and again. Knowing that this show also raises so much money for Pelotonia is just incredible, and I can’t think of many other things that can have such a personal impact for the creators, as well as to the cause the funds go to benefit.”
— Thrillda Swinton 2017 Amateurlesque Performer.
“Doing Amateurlesque was one of the best decisions I have ever made! I was unsure if it was the right fit for me but when I took the plunge it opened up a world I couldn’t have imagined. The veterans were all so encouraging and watching them and learning from them blew my mind. I have never felt so genuinely welcomed and supported in the arts community. Since Amateurlesque I have used the skills I learned to continue to perform and have even been selected to compete in Ohio Burlypicks 2019! I am so grateful for the experience and the continued support and would absolutely recommend it to anyone!”
— Blonde Jenaé Glamsey 2018 Amateur Performer
“I am not so good with words but the amateur show helped me come out of my shell. It helped me feel more confident about turning 40. I made great friends and I’m now kittening when I am asked. I can’t say enough about it.”
— Princess Tabitha Beaverhousen 2018 Amateurlesque Performer

amateurlesque official promo video

 

Backstory

Amateurlesque was started in 2016, a brainchild of Spike as a way to raise money for his Pelotonia ride. After years of dating a burlesque performer the bug had bitten him and he couldn't hear a song that he liked without envisioning it as a number. Spike decided to take a leap and ask others to join him. The annual show features first time performers trained by Columbus' top award winner burlesque dancers. Performers volunteer their time, while ticket sales and silent auction proceeds go to cancer research via  The James. In the last three years Spike has raised over $20,000, a large portion thanks to the many people and businesses that have given to this show.

 

To get involved with Amateurlesque, as a Performer, Sponsor, Volunteer or just to make a Donation please contact us HERE