The ladies of Leeds can now learn the cheeky striptease which is more about what you can't see, than what you can.

Think basques, nipple tassels and Betty Boo-style winks – and welcome to the world of Burlesque.

For more information about classes and hire
visit www.leedsburlesque.co.uk

Dalia Hawley, aka Cecilia Rouge, is behind plans to set up a Burlesque business which will see her organise workshops, events and party hire.

TO WATCH THE BURLESQUE DANCERS IN ACTION, CLICK THE GREEN PLAY BUTTON ON THE RIGHT.

Dalia, 26, who lives in the city centre, said: "I really wanted to learn Burlesque. There were loads of classes in Liverpool and London but not here.

"I think it's really beautiful; it embraces female form and it's about women getting back in touch with their femininity."

CHECK BACK ON MONDAY FOR THE SECOND PART OF OUR VIDEO FEATURE ON BURLESQUE STRIPPING IN LEEDS.

Dalia brought in teacher Bella Taylor, aka Bella Besame, aged 27, from Manchester, to teach the classes at club Subculture, at the Merrion Centre, as a trial last year.

It was so successful – and oversubscribed – that Dalia wants to run it as a full-time business.

"I want to run more workshops in Leeds. We have started doing hen parties and private groups.

"It's only just started to happen in Leeds and it's becoming more popular. I've started to get queries from bars and clubs.

"I get so many emails from girls now wanting to do it."

Bella has been taking classes in Manchester and Liverpool for years as well as putting on her own solo shows in clubs.

"I have always done this but this is the first time I've done it in Leeds.

"People say it's lap dancing or stripping but it's not; there's a fine line between art and porn.

"If you look at strip clubs, it's about provoking a sexual feeling in order to get more cash but with Burlesque you pay one fee on the door and that's it. Not all of them remove clothes, there's a story and it's very female friendly."

Workshops are between six and eight weeks and the removal of items is done over clothes.

"You go through all the basic moves of Burlesque, you get your own Burlesque name and there's characterisation which is building a character of how you want to be on stage.

"There's music choice and there's the strip tease element but there is no nudity."

Ruby Rose, a vintage hair and make up specialist, is also on hand for one of the workshops which are open to anyone of all ages, shapes and sizes.

To see a Burlesque performance, Bella will take centre stage at Subculture tonight from 8pm.

For more information about classes and hire
visit www.leedsburlesque.co.uk