JOKINGLY labelled “stripping for the middle classes”, burlesque is one of the fastest-growing art forms in the country, with clubs and classes popping up all over the country.

Colchester’s Lulu Sapphire has been running her club for the past three years.

“I was looking for a burlesque class around here,” the classically-trained dancer says. “When I couldn’t find one, I decided to start my own.

“When I did my degree, part of it involved teaching all kinds of different dance forms.

“Burlesque is back, bigger than ever before.

“It’s alive and kicking everywhere in the UK now; in the rockabilly revival, the tattoo festivals, fetish clubs, in every major city, and in all kinds of venues.”

Run at Fitness First gym in Colchester every Wednesday, from 8pm to 9pm, Lulu teaches burlesque to women and trains those who wish to move on from the classes to the stage.

“It’s not for everyone,” Lulu says. “Some just prefer coming to the classes but for those who do wish to perform, I choreograph and put on shows for them.

“What I will say is that when they do go on stage, they all turn into little divas. Some have said it’s a bit like jumping out of an aeroplane, but it is very liberating and a big confidence builder.

“There are classic burlesquers using the traditions of music, comedy and satire, there are Moulin Rouge-style showgirl striptease acts, fan dancers, Fifties pin-up and rockabilly-style acts, gothic style and even neo-burlesquers, using modern music.”

And she adds: “It’s worth mentioning, there’s no nudity at all. Tassle twirling is only usually seen at the last minute and often girls who don’t want to do it, choose not to. It’s all about the tease, glamorous costumes, frills, boas, stockings, smiles, winks and Fifties glamour.”

Lulu’s next show will hopefully take place at the Headgate Theatre in May.

Before that, she is taking part, with some of her girls, in a music night at the Twist, in Military Road, Colchester, on March 18.

They will be doing routines between the musical acts, Benjamin Bloom, Fick As Fieves and the Overwrought.