You're invited to feel empowered at charity burlesque event

You are being warmly invited to a unique and uplifting community event on May 10th , that promises an afternoon centred on confidence, creativity, and celebrating what our bodies can do.

Hosted by arts charity CLICK Arts Foundation, the event is designed to be friendly, welcoming, and accessible to all. ‘Because CLICK Arts Foundation gives grants to grassroots arts projects that promote confidence, learning, inclusivity, community and kindness, we take pride in channelling those values in the events we host to role model what we believe is important to help improve people’s wellbeing.’ explains Jemma Gambrill charity trustee and squad dancer. ‘We understand the power of the arts and want as many people to benefit from them as possible.’

CLICK Arts Foundation give grants to support grassroots arts projects that promote confidence, wellbeing, and social inclusion. Through its grant programme it helps small projects to create safe, supportive spaces where people can explore creativity, build skills, and feel part of a community. It has supported many local Northamptonshire arts groups including United African Association and Laugh Out Loud Theatre and they were the charity partner for the Northampton Film Festival this year.

A highlight of the afternoon event will be a lively showcase from the CLICK burlesque squad, offering a glimpse into the playful and expressive world of modern burlesque. The performance is designed to challenge stereotypes and celebrate movement, confidence, and individuality at every level.

The programme will also feature an inspiring keynote from Dr Gus Chaves, GP and Clinical hypnotherapist, who specialises in women’s weight and body image. His talk will complement a session from Chartered Psychologist, charity founder and dance leader Dr Audrey Tang on the power of dance and self-expression. Reflecting on her work, she said:

“As I said in my TEDx, when you dance—no matter how good you are—you feel great about yourself. Modern burlesque is about being seen without editing yourself. It’s a celebration of our bodies, how they move, and what they can do.”

She added: “We are very excited to welcome Dr Gus to our event—he’s a fabulous and empowering speaker who always gives relevant and useful tips that you can take away and use immediately.”

Attendees will also be invited to join beginner-friendly workshops led by Dr Audrey, designed to be inclusive, supportive, and completely judgement-free.

For many, it’s this friendly welcoming atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression. One former event participant, Iga Nowak, who enjoyed the experience so much she went on to join the burlesque squad, shared:

“I’d wanted to try burlesque for such a long time but felt nervous about taking that first step. As soon as I arrived, the group were friendly and the teacher so welcoming—it made me instantly feel like I was part of something bigger. Burlesque has done more than I expected; it helped me reconnect with feeling empowered. I always leave class feeling happy, so I’m glad I went along.”

Squad dancer Gemma Young states  “Everyone and every body is welcome to come along to the event, be inspired by the stunning dance showcase and fabulous keynote, and then join in the beginner-friendly workshops—it’s all aimed to make you feel empowered and proud of your body- and everyone deserves that!”

Dr Audrey adds ‘It’s about more than performance—it’s about connection, confidence, and community. By bringing people together in a positive and inclusive setting, we hope attendees will leave feeling inspired, uplifted, and empowered.’

 She adds that the emphasis is firmly on self-expression and empowerment rather than appearance: “We love to dress up, but you don’t have to! Any clothes that you can move in will be perfect to attend in—we want you to feel comfortable and welcome to join in and celebrate you and your body!”

The Empowerment Through Burlesque Showcase and Workshop is on May 10th 2-4pm at MK Gallery, Midsummer Blvd.

Further details about the event can be found here: www.facebook.com/events/1651369356300020 and tickets can be booked here: https://mkgallery.org/event/empowerment-through-burlesque-workshop/

For more about CLICK Arts Foundation www.clickartsfoundation.org.uk