Or, strictly speaking, “Purple Wail,” which is a jazz number by Red Prysock that happens to be the warm-up routine in my dance class, thus demonstrated by an expert …
… but I find “Purple Whale” a more apposite description of my own elegance at said routine (or any other) after the mere two lessons I have thus far had. Hopefully this will be amended in due course, especially since the group is performing in March. Never let it be said that I don’t like to dive in at the deep end …
It has been a good few years since I last attempted dance classes, and the first time since transition. The idea has been on my mind again for some time, but it was always one of those things that I could see myself coming around to in the indeterminate future when transition was completely out of the way. Since, however, I still have no clear estimate on how long that will be, since I have known people stuck in the system for over ten years (and a fair average of five), and since one never knows what if any future the NHS will enjoy under the tender loving care of the Tories, I finally decided that there was never going to be any time like the present to live a few dreams.
Why Burlesque, you may ask? The hubby having introduced me to Amanda Palmer’s music may be partly to blame. I definitely feel the need for more Brechtian Punk Cabaret in my life … Also, I have been aware of the Cardiff Cabaret Club (formerly Burlesque Cardiff) for some years, knew that they staged regular classes and events, and were a safe space for LGBT+ people. Not to mention that since the news these days seems to be strongly hinting towards the view that we are heading towards a re-enactment of Nazi Germany, now feels as good a time as any to embrace some good old Weimar Republic decadence while we have the chance.
Life is a Cabaret, old chum … or possibly an ocean.
Hi Eleanor,
What a great graphic on top! A stunning waterfall and a great outfit!
In response to what you wrote, I am not a jazz fan. I love the Swan Lake ballet and the Nutcracker. I am familiar with Cabaret since I love Broadway. You quoted from the musical at the end.
You liked a comment I made at Nikki’s Meet and Greet with a Twist. I came to thank you and introduce myself. I’m Janice. Maybe you can check out my blog if you need any blogging tips. That’s what I write about. I also have Meet and Greets like Nikki. Thanks again for the like.
Janice
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Strangely, it was seeing Northern Ballet’s staging of “Casanova” last year that gave me the urge to start dancing again, but trying to find a trans-friendly adult ballet class locally was too unlikely.
The waterfall is Sgwd Yr Eira near Penderyn. It was indeed stunning. 🙂 There are four amazing waterfalls in that area, well worth seeing if you are ever in Wales (though you’ll need sturdy shoes with good grip if you mean to get behind this one. How I avoiding a drenching I will never know).
Thank you for stopping by, and I would love to check your blog out. 🙂
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You are brave! I’d love to take a dance class…more Latin Ballroom than Burlesque but still. 😉
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I mulled over a few options, but I was definitely not going to take anything couples based, as a (trans) friend of mine was rather humiliated in such a class by always being required to dance male lead. I can’t imagine that was a great confidence booster for her …
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Wow, well that is very disappointing to read. I hope you enjoy your class….I’m sure it’s very fun.
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Thank you. 🙂 I’m freaking a little about the performance in March, but I’m enjoying it so much I’m bound to at least be a bit less clumsy by then, touch wood …
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I have faith in you Eleanor. ❤
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Thank you. 🙂 I am getting slowly better … though we learn a bit more of the routine with each lesson, and part 3 is tomorrow.
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