How Revolver Studios’ Dance Classes Boosted Abbey’s Confidence

I never expected to be standing on stage alone, dancing to choreography I came up with, taking off a costume I created myself, and loving every single second of it.

I was a kickline dancer for 15 years, and after college (and a few years of trying to figure out who I was as an adult), I was really missing that type of movement and creative outlet in my life. Then Revolver Studios opened in St. Cloud and suddenly my life was changed.

The adult dance studio offered burlesque classes, and I was intrigued. I knew a little bit of what it involved from the Cher movie, but it’s more than just a sideshow, sparkly costumes, and stripping. It’s a true form of dance that involves purposeful movement and real skill. One of those skills being confidence in yourself.

I was lucky enough to be one of the first group of students to take the burlesque program series at the studio from Scarlette Revolver.

I remember my first session. Sitting in a circle on the floor that first night we all told our stories. Some were totally new to dance, some were like me — missing it after years of being away. And some were there because a friend brought them along. None of us had any clue what burlesque truly was. We were a group of women gathered together, putting ourselves out there, and unknowingly embarking on a journey of self love and new found confidence.

Scarlette taught us how to walk in heels, move with purpose, and have fun being performers. But the real lessons were much deeper than that. She taught us that the bodies we are in are perfect. They are valid, lovable, and worthy of taking up space. I learned it isn’t about trying to look or be like someone else; it’s about loving the person you are now, and spreading that love to those around you. The confidence that comes with those realizations is absolutely priceless.

After that first round of burlesque classes, I then took a second, performing at the first two student showcases in group routines. It was so much fun, and knowing how loving and supportive everyone was gave me the confidence to create and perform my first solo act. I couldn’t have done it without the encouragement and support of the team at Revolver Studios.

Don’t get me wrong, I was still nervous to go out on stage alone. But knowing that everyone was there to love and support each other helped so much. That overflow of support even encouraged me to create a second solo act and perform it. It’s amazing what you can accomplish when there is a team of like minded individuals encouraging you to love yourself and the art you create.

Revolver Studios has a variety of classes filled with people who are supportive, fun, and on similar journeys of dance, fitness, and self love — ballet, lyrical, their new aerial classes, hip hop, chair dance, burlesque. Everyone is welcome and everyone is treated with the love, support and encouragement they deserve.

If you are looking for a new way to be active, build confidence, and have fun all while being part of a supportive community of like minded people, Revolver Studios is the place for you. Find them downtown at 515 West St. Germain St. and online at revolverstudiosmn.com.