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The Velvet BurlesqueTM
Celebrating over 30 years in business: Est. 1991
The Velvet Burlesque is a multi-award-winning company dedicated to delivering world-class burlesque, cabaret, and performance artistry. From spectacular shows to inclusive dance and fitness classes, The Velvet Burlesque has become a pillar of the UK’s entertainment scene.
Whether you're looking for unforgettable show performances, private or corporate event production, classes or workshops, we bring passion, creativity, and a touch of magic to every experience.
Our Legacy
Founded in 1991 by the dynamic and multi-talented Lara Gothique (a.k.a. "Hells Belle"), The Velvet Burlesque is built on a passion for theatre, music, and dance. Over the decades, we’ve earned an impeccable and formidable reputation for producing high-quality shows and events, setting the standard for burlesque and cabaret in the UK.
Awards
- Top 5 Best British Burlesque Performer – The Burlesque Awards
- Best British Burlesque Troupe – The Velvet Burlesque Show Troupe
- Burlesque Dance Tuition Business of the Year – Corporate LiveWire Global Awards
- Best Burlesque Dance Tuition Business - Northern England – Fitness and Nutrition Awards
- Adult Entertainment Specialists of the Year – Central England Prestige Awards
- Best Pilates Studio in Sheffield – Distinguished Teaching
The Velvet Burlesque are based in Sheffield, South Yorkshire (UK). We are available for national and international
corporate and private bookings, bringing world-class entertainment and expertise to your events.
A true EXTRAVAGANZA of multi-award-winning burlesque, vaudeville, cabaret, circus, sideshow, magic, drag, and variety acts!
Renowned for our exceptional reputation and unparalleled quality, The Velvet Burlesque is proud to be one of the largest and longest-running burlesque and cabaret productions in the UK.
With jaw-dropping performances, opulent theatrics, and an electrifying atmosphere, we bring together world-class talent to create a spectacle like no other - a night of decadence, drama, and dazzling showmanship that will leave you breathless.
Step into the world of Burlesque & Cabaret with our award-winning dance classes, designed for beginners through to experienced dancers and performers.
We also offer Yoga & Pilates-based workout classes, tailored for all fitness levels, from beginner to advanced - all led by a multi-award-winning instructor with over three decades of expertise.
Choose from weekly classes, workshops, one-to-one sessions, act mentoring, and group bookings - all designed to help you build confidence, strength, and performance skills in a fun, professional, and welcoming environment.
Looking to book a spectacular event or unforgettable party? Or perhaps you’re searching for a unique and exciting gift? Look no further!
We specialise in event planning and bespoke bookings for private and corporate group events of any size, creating an incredible party or show experience tailored just for you.
For a more personal touch, we also offer one-to-one private lessons and sessions - perfect for those wanting an exclusive and personalised experience.
Let us bring glamour, fun, and show-stopping entertainment to your special occasion!
Lara Gothique
Award-Winning Choreographer, Producer, Performer & Teacher
Lara Gothique is a highly respected and fully qualified international choreographer, performer, producer, and fitness instructor. With an impressive career spanning over three decades since 1991, Lara has built an exceptional reputation for her expertise, creativity, and passion for the performing arts.
Dance: Sharing the Magic
Lara Gothique discovered her love for choreography and performance at a very young age, channelling this passion into creating The Velvet Burlesque. Her mission is to share the transformative power of dance, inspiring students to embrace their individuality, celebrate their bodies, and let go of inhibitions. Through her empowering and engaging classes, Lara fosters confidence, creativity, and a sense of freedom for every participant.
Fitness and Personal Training: Tailored for You
Lara’s fitness and personal training sessions are designed to help clients achieve their full potential in a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment. She customises programs to suit individual needs, capabilities, and goals, focusing on fitness, rehabilitation, and overall well-being.
Inclusive, Supportive and Social Classes
At The Velvet Burlesque, inclusivity is at the heart of everything we do. Lara Gothique’s classes welcome individuals of all genders, ages (18+ for dance), ethnicities, shapes, and sizes, creating a safe and supportive environment for everyone.
Whether you’re an absolute beginner or looking to enhance your skills, these classes are designed to build confidence, foster self-expression, and encourage social connections. Many participants find not only joy in movement but also a fantastic community to share their journey.
Performer: Lara Gothique - "Hells Belle" - Amazonian Goddess & Showgirl Extraordinaire!
Prepare to be captivated by Lara Gothique - "Hells Belle", a mysteriously formidable Amazonian Goddess, and a force to be reckoned with. Not for the faint of heart, her performances are bold, confident, and laced with playful fierceness – this b*tch bites if you pull her tail! Lara Gothique - "Hells Belle" is known for her commanding stage presence, elaborate costumes, and electrifying performances that have dazzled audiences all over the world!
Performance and Modelling Specialties
From Gothic, Vampire, and Victorian-period styles to horror, fantasy, fetish, and exotic, Lara Gothique - "Hells Belle" brings a wealth of expertise, confidence and flair to her performances. She’s also a skilled horsewoman and motorcyclist, previously performing some ridiculously crazy stunt work experience for unique events!
If you have a bespoke theme in mind, please don’t hesitate to ask - Lara Gothique - "Hells Belle" will create a customised, show-stopping performance tailored to your event!
Performance Testimonials
- "An hourglass figure, with the sand in all the right places." - Mister Meredith
- "Hells Belle was a Victorian Gothic masterpiece as an Old Fashioned Girl, fitting into the surroundings perfectly." - 21stCenturyBurlesque.com
- "Hells Belle ... the fastest tassels in the North!" - Feline Productions
- "Hells Belle ... wafting peacock feather fans to Madonna’s song, was an absolute joy to watch. Her onstage persona is large, vibrant, and confident. Her performances prove there ain’t nothing like a pro." - Alison J Carr, Artist and PhD Researcher
Experience the magnetic allure of Lara Gothique - "Hells Belle" - a performer who redefines the art of burlesque, and leaves every audience in awe!
Discover More with The Velvet Burlesque
For the latest updates, exclusive behind-the-scenes insights, and a glimpse into the world of burlesque and cabaret, follow us on social media, subscribe to our YouTube channel, and connect with us on WhatsApp.
- Be the first to hear about upcoming shows, workshops, and special announcements.
- See highlights from past performances and behind-the-scenes moments.
- Join our thriving community of performers, students, and cabaret enthusiasts.
Experience the magic beyond the stage, and follow us here: