Upcoming Workshops:

LEVEL TWO - Beginning Saturday, Oct 25

You can find full workshop details and registration below.

If you are interested in one of our improv workshops that isn't listed above or prefer joining a listed workshop at a later date, please fill out this form and we will get back to you with details.

Workshop Info

Level One:

Level One welcomes complete beginners, even those with zero experience in burlesque or movement creation. Participants learn how to create movement on the spot by identifying musical patterns and rhythms while using a “toolbelt” of movement creation techniques. Instruction includes burlesque foundations such as costuming, history, bump ‘n’ grind, and the art of tease, alongside exposure to other improvisation-based dance styles like waacking, animation, and other street styles. To deepen this exploration, The Funktion brings in instructors both from within the burlesque world and from outside of it, ensuring students learn these styles from teachers rooted in the form.

Level Two:

Level Two is designed for those who have completed Level One or who have 1–2 years of burlesque and/or movement experience. This level deepens the understanding of musical breakdowns and expands movement creation tools, allowing performers to grow more confident in their improvisational and movement creation skills.

Fine Tune:
Fine Tune is a deep dive into movement creation for performers ready to refine their artistry. With guided tools and prompts, participants explore how to craft movement that is unique to them, whether focusing on musicality, character work, or stage presence. This level is perfect for those feeling stuck in a choreographic rut or looking to expand how they create movement ideas for both improv and choreography.Performers at this level should have either completed a previous Funktion Improv Workshop or have at least two years of burlesque performance experience.

Upcoming Level Two Workshop

8 Week Series

SATURDAYS

Oct 25 - Dec  13
(no class Nov 15)
Showcase and Dress Rehearsal/Feedback night based on group availability the week of  Dec 14-19

11:30-2pm Class
2-2:30pm Open Studio

Instructor:
Sweet Rosie Mae & Funktion Cast

Drop-ins are NOT available for this series

REGISTER

Q & A:

Q: Do I need dance or burlesque experience to join?

A: Not at all! Level One is perfect for total beginners—no prior experience required.

Q: What if I already perform or have dance training?

A: Level Two and Fine Tune are designed for more experienced performers who want to deepen their improv skills and may also be looking for new ways to create movement/choreography for acts.

Q: What makes these workshops different from regular burlesque classes?

A: These workshops focus on improvisation and movement creation, teaching you how to build unique, meaningful movement inspired by music. The focus is on skills you can use both in improv and in choreographed acts.

Q: Do I have to perform in the final show?

A: No! The workshops culminate in a live band burlesque showcase, giving you the chance to try out your improvisational skills, but they are not mandatory.

Q: Do I need to be a trained dancer to take this workshop?

A: Not at all! These workshops are designed for performers of all backgrounds. Improv isn’t just about dance movement, it can also be character-driven, focus on storytelling, or focus on costume reveals. The goal is to help you discover new ways of creating intentional movement, whether through dance, character, or creative choices unique to your performance style.

Q: Is this workshop only useful for improv, or can it help with creating choreography too?

A: While the workshops are centered on improvisation, the tools you learn can be applied far beyond improv. By practicing how to create movement in the moment, performers build a toolkit that can spark new ideas and break old habits when creating choreography for their pre-choreographed acts.

Testimonials

All Funktion classes are non-refundable. However, if you are unable to attend a class due to an emergency or health concern, you may receive a credit for the amount paid. This credit can be applied to another class or workshop at The Funktion within 2 months of the original class date.