BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Dance Place - ECPv6.10.2//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.danceplace.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Dance Place REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Halifax BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0300 TZNAME:ADT DTSTART:20240310T060000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0300 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:AST DTSTART:20241103T050000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0300 TZNAME:ADT DTSTART:20250309T060000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0300 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:AST DTSTART:20251102T050000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0300 TZNAME:ADT DTSTART:20260308T060000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0300 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:AST DTSTART:20261101T050000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20241207T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20241208T160000 DTSTAMP:20260817T141002 CREATED:20240902T173221Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241112T171519Z UID:40539-1733598000-1733673600@www.danceplace.org SUMMARY:All Hail The Creatives: NOËL DESCRIPTION:Image Description: A performer in a strappy costume\, heels and crown\, opens their wings in a strong\, empowering walk. The stage is washed in a red and orange glow. In the bottom right corner\, over a circular pink gradient\, reads the Dance Place logo in white lettering. Photo Credit: Tansura T. Photography. \n \n \n \n The International Nerdlesque Festival \n \n \n \n September 11–13\, 2026 The International Nerdlesque Festival (TINF) returns in 2026 for its most immersive and ambitious year yet\, bringing its signature blend of fandom\, rhinestones\, and glitter to the Nation’s Capital. Cosplay meets cabaret in this pop-culture and burlesque spectacular: DC’s “Comic Con in a Corset” lands September 11-12 at Dance Place. This two-night extravaganza invites audiences into a universe where the grown and sexy meet the geeky and fabulous. Each night features a different showcase celebrating popular culture across media\, set against a sultry\, intimate nightlife backdrop.  Plus exclusive workshops\, vending\, and community events led by our performers and festival partners!  \n \n \n \n \n \n About TNIF\n Performers\n Performances\n \n \n About TNIF\n Originally founded in 2014 in New York City\, the International Nerdlesque Festival was the first burlesque festival in the world to spotlight nerdlesque: a performance genre where pop culture\, fandom\, and striptease collide. From Star Wars tributes to anime-inspired acts\, this genre revels in the power of fantasy\, nostalgia\, and queer creativity. After more than a decade of showcasing talent from around the world\, the festival expanded to Washington\, DC in 2021 \n Performers\n With an all-star lineup of burlesque royalty\, TINF 2026 will feature headlining performances from Top 50 Most Influential Burlesque Star La Reina (NO) and Silver Tusk Award Winner Red Rum (IL)—plus standout acts by Silver Kitsune (IL)\, Qu’in De La Noche (CA)\, and TNA Wrestling/TROMA star Monique Dupree (MD). The creative team includes Maki Roll (DMV)\, Kimono Jones (DMV)\, and Jove Galore (DC)\, all respected visionaries in performance art\, nightlife\, and immersive entertainment. \n Performances\n 9/11: Nerdvana: Retro Rewind kicks off the International Nerdlesque Festival with a sexy\, campy blast from the past.  Join us as we dive headfirst into beloved fandoms and comically cursed earworms of yesteryear. 9/12: The International Nerdlesque Festival Mega Showcase features a brand new lineup of national and international cabaret superstars\, bringing your favorite iconic characters and fandoms to life in ways you’ve never seen before. Nerdy\, cheeky\, and gloriously unhinged! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Workshops \n \n \n \n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 11AM (2 hour duration) Presenter: Qu’in De La Noche (She/Her)This class offers a unique opportunity for dancers to build confidence and deepen bodily awareness in ways you’ve never felt before. Led by real-life martial artist and Afro-Latin burlesque icon Qu’in de la Noche\, students will learn the fundamentals of weapons flow through breathwork\, intentional movement\, and drills designed to encourage interactive play. Together\, we move with purpose\, precision\, and power – with intentional movement designed to elevate your natural flow through simple exercises\, combat-inspired choreography\, and respect for the blade above all. Prerequisites: At least 1 year of consistent dance training or equivalent movement coordination. All are welcome. Attendees are encouraged to bring a prop weapon. No live weapons shall be used in this workshop. \n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 1:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: La Reina (They/Them) When you’re on the stage do you imagine that you’re a Warrior Royalty battling your way to the throne? Or a Fiendish Ghoul hunting your prey for just the taste of life that sustains you? Or do you imagine that you’re some winged creature building up the courage to fly\, to soar and to be free? Then this is the workshop for you. Building a world around your acts allows you to fully step into the storytelling of Burlesque. Storytelling is one of the many beautiful elements of the performing arts. It creates a space where not only does your audience feel transported into another plane of existence\, but gives you the brush to paint\, to remember\, to honor your experiences\, dreams and visions of and for your life that then becomes transformative moments every time you step on the stage. Storytelling can impact everything in a performance. From lighting direction to costuming to even how you welcome tease into the art\, showcasing your world is a much needed tool in the toolbelt of an artist. What we will cover: Building a Character Sheet of our Stage Persona Story Structure Movement Inspirations Themes & Motifs   Please bring a writing utensil\, notebook\, and comfortable clothes & shoes for light movement. \n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 11AM (1 hour duration) Presenter: Silver Kitsune (They/Them) Do you see more experienced performers and marvel at their custom costumes? Do you worry that you’ll never level up if you don’t have a degree in design or a sponsor to finance your stage life? Then this introductory class is the place to start! Join Silver Kitsune\, costumer\, fabricator\, and designer\, as they walk you through the methods they use to upcycle thrift store finds and customize store-bought basics. Everyone starts from square one\, but there is no reason you have to stay there! In this class\, you will learn the best techniques for sourcing on a tight budget\, what to look for to optimize your thrifting\, basic tailoring hacks to custom fit your costumes to your body\, how to design specifically for stage reveals\, and at what point it’s best to just buy it pre-made. Transform yourself from Cosplay Fledgling to Nerdlesque Star! \n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 12:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: RedRum (She/Her)A little bit PEEPshow\, a little bit FREAKshow…a little bit CREEPshow! Burlesque Performance Artist RedRum will demonstrate quick and creative uses of scar wax\, gelatin based FX productsand other means of achieving dimension with basic makeup tools. We will create one large scar to learn how to sculpt and manipulate wax and one face melt burn using the 3D Gel. Learn how to transition the edges and “dress” the wounds with blood gel and color to enhance the horrific effect! Materials are not required for participation in the workshop. Materials being used if you do want to play along: Ben Nye Scar and Nose WaxMehron SynWax Synthetic Modeling WaxMehron Makeup 3D Gel\, Blood Red and FleshMehron Spirit GumMehron Liquid LatexStipple SpongeMehron MakeupMakeup SpatulaFake BloodBen Nye color wheels with a variety of reds\, yellow and bluesSmall hot plate and small heat safe cup or container\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n PURCHASE FESTIVAL & WORKSHOP TICKETS\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thank you to our 2026-2027 Season Supporters! URL:https://www.danceplace.org/performances/marcus-isaiah/ LOCATION:Dance Place\, 3225 8th Street NE\, Washington\, DC\, 20017\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.danceplace.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Marcus-Isaiah_BY-Corey-Fletcher-2.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20241214T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20241215T160000 DTSTAMP:20260817T141002 CREATED:20240902T175342Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241125T210101Z UID:40566-1734192000-1734278400@www.danceplace.org SUMMARY:Coyaba Dance Theatre: Kwanzaa DESCRIPTION:Image Description: A performer in a strappy costume\, heels and crown\, opens their wings in a strong\, empowering walk. The stage is washed in a red and orange glow. In the bottom right corner\, over a circular pink gradient\, reads the Dance Place logo in white lettering. Photo Credit: Tansura T. Photography. \n \n \n \n The International Nerdlesque Festival \n \n \n \n September 11–13\, 2026 The International Nerdlesque Festival (TINF) returns in 2026 for its most immersive and ambitious year yet\, bringing its signature blend of fandom\, rhinestones\, and glitter to the Nation’s Capital. Cosplay meets cabaret in this pop-culture and burlesque spectacular: DC’s “Comic Con in a Corset” lands September 11-12 at Dance Place. This two-night extravaganza invites audiences into a universe where the grown and sexy meet the geeky and fabulous. Each night features a different showcase celebrating popular culture across media\, set against a sultry\, intimate nightlife backdrop.  Plus exclusive workshops\, vending\, and community events led by our performers and festival partners!  \n \n \n \n \n \n About TNIF\n Performers\n Performances\n \n \n About TNIF\n Originally founded in 2014 in New York City\, the International Nerdlesque Festival was the first burlesque festival in the world to spotlight nerdlesque: a performance genre where pop culture\, fandom\, and striptease collide. From Star Wars tributes to anime-inspired acts\, this genre revels in the power of fantasy\, nostalgia\, and queer creativity. After more than a decade of showcasing talent from around the world\, the festival expanded to Washington\, DC in 2021 \n Performers\n With an all-star lineup of burlesque royalty\, TINF 2026 will feature headlining performances from Top 50 Most Influential Burlesque Star La Reina (NO) and Silver Tusk Award Winner Red Rum (IL)—plus standout acts by Silver Kitsune (IL)\, Qu’in De La Noche (CA)\, and TNA Wrestling/TROMA star Monique Dupree (MD). The creative team includes Maki Roll (DMV)\, Kimono Jones (DMV)\, and Jove Galore (DC)\, all respected visionaries in performance art\, nightlife\, and immersive entertainment. \n Performances\n 9/11: Nerdvana: Retro Rewind kicks off the International Nerdlesque Festival with a sexy\, campy blast from the past.  Join us as we dive headfirst into beloved fandoms and comically cursed earworms of yesteryear. 9/12: The International Nerdlesque Festival Mega Showcase features a brand new lineup of national and international cabaret superstars\, bringing your favorite iconic characters and fandoms to life in ways you’ve never seen before. Nerdy\, cheeky\, and gloriously unhinged! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Workshops \n \n \n \n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 11AM (2 hour duration) Presenter: Qu’in De La Noche (She/Her)This class offers a unique opportunity for dancers to build confidence and deepen bodily awareness in ways you’ve never felt before. Led by real-life martial artist and Afro-Latin burlesque icon Qu’in de la Noche\, students will learn the fundamentals of weapons flow through breathwork\, intentional movement\, and drills designed to encourage interactive play. Together\, we move with purpose\, precision\, and power – with intentional movement designed to elevate your natural flow through simple exercises\, combat-inspired choreography\, and respect for the blade above all. Prerequisites: At least 1 year of consistent dance training or equivalent movement coordination. All are welcome. Attendees are encouraged to bring a prop weapon. No live weapons shall be used in this workshop. \n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 1:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: La Reina (They/Them) When you’re on the stage do you imagine that you’re a Warrior Royalty battling your way to the throne? Or a Fiendish Ghoul hunting your prey for just the taste of life that sustains you? Or do you imagine that you’re some winged creature building up the courage to fly\, to soar and to be free? Then this is the workshop for you. Building a world around your acts allows you to fully step into the storytelling of Burlesque. Storytelling is one of the many beautiful elements of the performing arts. It creates a space where not only does your audience feel transported into another plane of existence\, but gives you the brush to paint\, to remember\, to honor your experiences\, dreams and visions of and for your life that then becomes transformative moments every time you step on the stage. Storytelling can impact everything in a performance. From lighting direction to costuming to even how you welcome tease into the art\, showcasing your world is a much needed tool in the toolbelt of an artist. What we will cover: Building a Character Sheet of our Stage Persona Story Structure Movement Inspirations Themes & Motifs   Please bring a writing utensil\, notebook\, and comfortable clothes & shoes for light movement. \n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 11AM (1 hour duration) Presenter: Silver Kitsune (They/Them) Do you see more experienced performers and marvel at their custom costumes? Do you worry that you’ll never level up if you don’t have a degree in design or a sponsor to finance your stage life? Then this introductory class is the place to start! Join Silver Kitsune\, costumer\, fabricator\, and designer\, as they walk you through the methods they use to upcycle thrift store finds and customize store-bought basics. Everyone starts from square one\, but there is no reason you have to stay there! In this class\, you will learn the best techniques for sourcing on a tight budget\, what to look for to optimize your thrifting\, basic tailoring hacks to custom fit your costumes to your body\, how to design specifically for stage reveals\, and at what point it’s best to just buy it pre-made. Transform yourself from Cosplay Fledgling to Nerdlesque Star! \n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 12:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: RedRum (She/Her)A little bit PEEPshow\, a little bit FREAKshow…a little bit CREEPshow! Burlesque Performance Artist RedRum will demonstrate quick and creative uses of scar wax\, gelatin based FX productsand other means of achieving dimension with basic makeup tools. We will create one large scar to learn how to sculpt and manipulate wax and one face melt burn using the 3D Gel. Learn how to transition the edges and “dress” the wounds with blood gel and color to enhance the horrific effect! Materials are not required for participation in the workshop. Materials being used if you do want to play along: Ben Nye Scar and Nose WaxMehron SynWax Synthetic Modeling WaxMehron Makeup 3D Gel\, Blood Red and FleshMehron Spirit GumMehron Liquid LatexStipple SpongeMehron MakeupMakeup SpatulaFake BloodBen Nye color wheels with a variety of reds\, yellow and bluesSmall hot plate and small heat safe cup or container\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n PURCHASE FESTIVAL & WORKSHOP TICKETS\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thank you to our 2026-2027 Season Supporters! URL:https://www.danceplace.org/performances/coyaba-kwanzaa/ LOCATION:Dance Place\, 3225 8th Street NE\, Washington\, DC\, 20017\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.danceplace.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Coyaba-Dance-Theater_BY-David-Dowling-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20250118T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20250119T160000 DTSTAMP:20260817T141002 CREATED:20240902T123657Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250110T154313Z UID:40524-1737226800-1737302400@www.danceplace.org SUMMARY:KanKouran West African Dance Company DESCRIPTION:Image Description: A performer in a strappy costume\, heels and crown\, opens their wings in a strong\, empowering walk. The stage is washed in a red and orange glow. In the bottom right corner\, over a circular pink gradient\, reads the Dance Place logo in white lettering. Photo Credit: Tansura T. Photography. \n \n \n \n The International Nerdlesque Festival \n \n \n \n September 11–13\, 2026 The International Nerdlesque Festival (TINF) returns in 2026 for its most immersive and ambitious year yet\, bringing its signature blend of fandom\, rhinestones\, and glitter to the Nation’s Capital. Cosplay meets cabaret in this pop-culture and burlesque spectacular: DC’s “Comic Con in a Corset” lands September 11-12 at Dance Place. This two-night extravaganza invites audiences into a universe where the grown and sexy meet the geeky and fabulous. Each night features a different showcase celebrating popular culture across media\, set against a sultry\, intimate nightlife backdrop.  Plus exclusive workshops\, vending\, and community events led by our performers and festival partners!  \n \n \n \n \n \n About TNIF\n Performers\n Performances\n \n \n About TNIF\n Originally founded in 2014 in New York City\, the International Nerdlesque Festival was the first burlesque festival in the world to spotlight nerdlesque: a performance genre where pop culture\, fandom\, and striptease collide. From Star Wars tributes to anime-inspired acts\, this genre revels in the power of fantasy\, nostalgia\, and queer creativity. After more than a decade of showcasing talent from around the world\, the festival expanded to Washington\, DC in 2021 \n Performers\n With an all-star lineup of burlesque royalty\, TINF 2026 will feature headlining performances from Top 50 Most Influential Burlesque Star La Reina (NO) and Silver Tusk Award Winner Red Rum (IL)—plus standout acts by Silver Kitsune (IL)\, Qu’in De La Noche (CA)\, and TNA Wrestling/TROMA star Monique Dupree (MD). The creative team includes Maki Roll (DMV)\, Kimono Jones (DMV)\, and Jove Galore (DC)\, all respected visionaries in performance art\, nightlife\, and immersive entertainment. \n Performances\n 9/11: Nerdvana: Retro Rewind kicks off the International Nerdlesque Festival with a sexy\, campy blast from the past.  Join us as we dive headfirst into beloved fandoms and comically cursed earworms of yesteryear. 9/12: The International Nerdlesque Festival Mega Showcase features a brand new lineup of national and international cabaret superstars\, bringing your favorite iconic characters and fandoms to life in ways you’ve never seen before. Nerdy\, cheeky\, and gloriously unhinged! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Workshops \n \n \n \n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 11AM (2 hour duration) Presenter: Qu’in De La Noche (She/Her)This class offers a unique opportunity for dancers to build confidence and deepen bodily awareness in ways you’ve never felt before. Led by real-life martial artist and Afro-Latin burlesque icon Qu’in de la Noche\, students will learn the fundamentals of weapons flow through breathwork\, intentional movement\, and drills designed to encourage interactive play. Together\, we move with purpose\, precision\, and power – with intentional movement designed to elevate your natural flow through simple exercises\, combat-inspired choreography\, and respect for the blade above all. Prerequisites: At least 1 year of consistent dance training or equivalent movement coordination. All are welcome. Attendees are encouraged to bring a prop weapon. No live weapons shall be used in this workshop. \n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 1:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: La Reina (They/Them) When you’re on the stage do you imagine that you’re a Warrior Royalty battling your way to the throne? Or a Fiendish Ghoul hunting your prey for just the taste of life that sustains you? Or do you imagine that you’re some winged creature building up the courage to fly\, to soar and to be free? Then this is the workshop for you. Building a world around your acts allows you to fully step into the storytelling of Burlesque. Storytelling is one of the many beautiful elements of the performing arts. It creates a space where not only does your audience feel transported into another plane of existence\, but gives you the brush to paint\, to remember\, to honor your experiences\, dreams and visions of and for your life that then becomes transformative moments every time you step on the stage. Storytelling can impact everything in a performance. From lighting direction to costuming to even how you welcome tease into the art\, showcasing your world is a much needed tool in the toolbelt of an artist. What we will cover: Building a Character Sheet of our Stage Persona Story Structure Movement Inspirations Themes & Motifs   Please bring a writing utensil\, notebook\, and comfortable clothes & shoes for light movement. \n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 11AM (1 hour duration) Presenter: Silver Kitsune (They/Them) Do you see more experienced performers and marvel at their custom costumes? Do you worry that you’ll never level up if you don’t have a degree in design or a sponsor to finance your stage life? Then this introductory class is the place to start! Join Silver Kitsune\, costumer\, fabricator\, and designer\, as they walk you through the methods they use to upcycle thrift store finds and customize store-bought basics. Everyone starts from square one\, but there is no reason you have to stay there! In this class\, you will learn the best techniques for sourcing on a tight budget\, what to look for to optimize your thrifting\, basic tailoring hacks to custom fit your costumes to your body\, how to design specifically for stage reveals\, and at what point it’s best to just buy it pre-made. Transform yourself from Cosplay Fledgling to Nerdlesque Star! \n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 12:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: RedRum (She/Her)A little bit PEEPshow\, a little bit FREAKshow…a little bit CREEPshow! Burlesque Performance Artist RedRum will demonstrate quick and creative uses of scar wax\, gelatin based FX productsand other means of achieving dimension with basic makeup tools. We will create one large scar to learn how to sculpt and manipulate wax and one face melt burn using the 3D Gel. Learn how to transition the edges and “dress” the wounds with blood gel and color to enhance the horrific effect! Materials are not required for participation in the workshop. Materials being used if you do want to play along: Ben Nye Scar and Nose WaxMehron SynWax Synthetic Modeling WaxMehron Makeup 3D Gel\, Blood Red and FleshMehron Spirit GumMehron Liquid LatexStipple SpongeMehron MakeupMakeup SpatulaFake BloodBen Nye color wheels with a variety of reds\, yellow and bluesSmall hot plate and small heat safe cup or container\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n PURCHASE FESTIVAL & WORKSHOP TICKETS\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thank you to our 2026-2027 Season Supporters! URL:https://www.danceplace.org/performances/kankouran-west-african-dance/ LOCATION:Dance Place\, 3225 8th Street NE\, Washington\, DC\, 20017\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.danceplace.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/KanKouran-West-African-Dance-Company-BY-Lawrence-Greene.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250121 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250126 DTSTAMP:20260817T141002 CREATED:20241030T172333Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250110T154409Z UID:41053-1737417600-1737849599@www.danceplace.org SUMMARY:Technical Residency: Brinae Ali featuring The Baltimore Jazz Collective & Wendel Patrick DESCRIPTION:Image Description: A performer in a strappy costume\, heels and crown\, opens their wings in a strong\, empowering walk. The stage is washed in a red and orange glow. In the bottom right corner\, over a circular pink gradient\, reads the Dance Place logo in white lettering. Photo Credit: Tansura T. Photography. \n \n \n \n The International Nerdlesque Festival \n \n \n \n September 11–13\, 2026 The International Nerdlesque Festival (TINF) returns in 2026 for its most immersive and ambitious year yet\, bringing its signature blend of fandom\, rhinestones\, and glitter to the Nation’s Capital. Cosplay meets cabaret in this pop-culture and burlesque spectacular: DC’s “Comic Con in a Corset” lands September 11-12 at Dance Place. This two-night extravaganza invites audiences into a universe where the grown and sexy meet the geeky and fabulous. Each night features a different showcase celebrating popular culture across media\, set against a sultry\, intimate nightlife backdrop.  Plus exclusive workshops\, vending\, and community events led by our performers and festival partners!  \n \n \n \n \n \n About TNIF\n Performers\n Performances\n \n \n About TNIF\n Originally founded in 2014 in New York City\, the International Nerdlesque Festival was the first burlesque festival in the world to spotlight nerdlesque: a performance genre where pop culture\, fandom\, and striptease collide. From Star Wars tributes to anime-inspired acts\, this genre revels in the power of fantasy\, nostalgia\, and queer creativity. After more than a decade of showcasing talent from around the world\, the festival expanded to Washington\, DC in 2021 \n Performers\n With an all-star lineup of burlesque royalty\, TINF 2026 will feature headlining performances from Top 50 Most Influential Burlesque Star La Reina (NO) and Silver Tusk Award Winner Red Rum (IL)—plus standout acts by Silver Kitsune (IL)\, Qu’in De La Noche (CA)\, and TNA Wrestling/TROMA star Monique Dupree (MD). The creative team includes Maki Roll (DMV)\, Kimono Jones (DMV)\, and Jove Galore (DC)\, all respected visionaries in performance art\, nightlife\, and immersive entertainment. \n Performances\n 9/11: Nerdvana: Retro Rewind kicks off the International Nerdlesque Festival with a sexy\, campy blast from the past.  Join us as we dive headfirst into beloved fandoms and comically cursed earworms of yesteryear. 9/12: The International Nerdlesque Festival Mega Showcase features a brand new lineup of national and international cabaret superstars\, bringing your favorite iconic characters and fandoms to life in ways you’ve never seen before. Nerdy\, cheeky\, and gloriously unhinged! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Workshops \n \n \n \n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 11AM (2 hour duration) Presenter: Qu’in De La Noche (She/Her)This class offers a unique opportunity for dancers to build confidence and deepen bodily awareness in ways you’ve never felt before. Led by real-life martial artist and Afro-Latin burlesque icon Qu’in de la Noche\, students will learn the fundamentals of weapons flow through breathwork\, intentional movement\, and drills designed to encourage interactive play. Together\, we move with purpose\, precision\, and power – with intentional movement designed to elevate your natural flow through simple exercises\, combat-inspired choreography\, and respect for the blade above all. Prerequisites: At least 1 year of consistent dance training or equivalent movement coordination. All are welcome. Attendees are encouraged to bring a prop weapon. No live weapons shall be used in this workshop. \n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 1:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: La Reina (They/Them) When you’re on the stage do you imagine that you’re a Warrior Royalty battling your way to the throne? Or a Fiendish Ghoul hunting your prey for just the taste of life that sustains you? Or do you imagine that you’re some winged creature building up the courage to fly\, to soar and to be free? Then this is the workshop for you. Building a world around your acts allows you to fully step into the storytelling of Burlesque. Storytelling is one of the many beautiful elements of the performing arts. It creates a space where not only does your audience feel transported into another plane of existence\, but gives you the brush to paint\, to remember\, to honor your experiences\, dreams and visions of and for your life that then becomes transformative moments every time you step on the stage. Storytelling can impact everything in a performance. From lighting direction to costuming to even how you welcome tease into the art\, showcasing your world is a much needed tool in the toolbelt of an artist. What we will cover: Building a Character Sheet of our Stage Persona Story Structure Movement Inspirations Themes & Motifs   Please bring a writing utensil\, notebook\, and comfortable clothes & shoes for light movement. \n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 11AM (1 hour duration) Presenter: Silver Kitsune (They/Them) Do you see more experienced performers and marvel at their custom costumes? Do you worry that you’ll never level up if you don’t have a degree in design or a sponsor to finance your stage life? Then this introductory class is the place to start! Join Silver Kitsune\, costumer\, fabricator\, and designer\, as they walk you through the methods they use to upcycle thrift store finds and customize store-bought basics. Everyone starts from square one\, but there is no reason you have to stay there! In this class\, you will learn the best techniques for sourcing on a tight budget\, what to look for to optimize your thrifting\, basic tailoring hacks to custom fit your costumes to your body\, how to design specifically for stage reveals\, and at what point it’s best to just buy it pre-made. Transform yourself from Cosplay Fledgling to Nerdlesque Star! \n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 12:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: RedRum (She/Her)A little bit PEEPshow\, a little bit FREAKshow…a little bit CREEPshow! Burlesque Performance Artist RedRum will demonstrate quick and creative uses of scar wax\, gelatin based FX productsand other means of achieving dimension with basic makeup tools. We will create one large scar to learn how to sculpt and manipulate wax and one face melt burn using the 3D Gel. Learn how to transition the edges and “dress” the wounds with blood gel and color to enhance the horrific effect! Materials are not required for participation in the workshop. Materials being used if you do want to play along: Ben Nye Scar and Nose WaxMehron SynWax Synthetic Modeling WaxMehron Makeup 3D Gel\, Blood Red and FleshMehron Spirit GumMehron Liquid LatexStipple SpongeMehron MakeupMakeup SpatulaFake BloodBen Nye color wheels with a variety of reds\, yellow and bluesSmall hot plate and small heat safe cup or container\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n PURCHASE FESTIVAL & WORKSHOP TICKETS\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thank you to our 2026-2027 Season Supporters! URL:https://www.danceplace.org/performances/technical-residency-brinae/ LOCATION:Dance Place\, 3225 8th Street NE\, Washington\, DC\, 20017\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.danceplace.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Brinae-Ali_BY-Wendel-Patrick.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20250208T200000 DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20250208T220000 DTSTAMP:20260817T141002 CREATED:20241030T171145Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250123T185209Z UID:41038-1739044800-1739052000@www.danceplace.org SUMMARY:BlackLight Summit DESCRIPTION:Image Description: A performer in a strappy costume\, heels and crown\, opens their wings in a strong\, empowering walk. The stage is washed in a red and orange glow. In the bottom right corner\, over a circular pink gradient\, reads the Dance Place logo in white lettering. Photo Credit: Tansura T. Photography. \n \n \n \n The International Nerdlesque Festival \n \n \n \n September 11–13\, 2026 The International Nerdlesque Festival (TINF) returns in 2026 for its most immersive and ambitious year yet\, bringing its signature blend of fandom\, rhinestones\, and glitter to the Nation’s Capital. Cosplay meets cabaret in this pop-culture and burlesque spectacular: DC’s “Comic Con in a Corset” lands September 11-12 at Dance Place. This two-night extravaganza invites audiences into a universe where the grown and sexy meet the geeky and fabulous. Each night features a different showcase celebrating popular culture across media\, set against a sultry\, intimate nightlife backdrop.  Plus exclusive workshops\, vending\, and community events led by our performers and festival partners!  \n \n \n \n \n \n About TNIF\n Performers\n Performances\n \n \n About TNIF\n Originally founded in 2014 in New York City\, the International Nerdlesque Festival was the first burlesque festival in the world to spotlight nerdlesque: a performance genre where pop culture\, fandom\, and striptease collide. From Star Wars tributes to anime-inspired acts\, this genre revels in the power of fantasy\, nostalgia\, and queer creativity. After more than a decade of showcasing talent from around the world\, the festival expanded to Washington\, DC in 2021 \n Performers\n With an all-star lineup of burlesque royalty\, TINF 2026 will feature headlining performances from Top 50 Most Influential Burlesque Star La Reina (NO) and Silver Tusk Award Winner Red Rum (IL)—plus standout acts by Silver Kitsune (IL)\, Qu’in De La Noche (CA)\, and TNA Wrestling/TROMA star Monique Dupree (MD). The creative team includes Maki Roll (DMV)\, Kimono Jones (DMV)\, and Jove Galore (DC)\, all respected visionaries in performance art\, nightlife\, and immersive entertainment. \n Performances\n 9/11: Nerdvana: Retro Rewind kicks off the International Nerdlesque Festival with a sexy\, campy blast from the past.  Join us as we dive headfirst into beloved fandoms and comically cursed earworms of yesteryear. 9/12: The International Nerdlesque Festival Mega Showcase features a brand new lineup of national and international cabaret superstars\, bringing your favorite iconic characters and fandoms to life in ways you’ve never seen before. Nerdy\, cheeky\, and gloriously unhinged! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Workshops \n \n \n \n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 11AM (2 hour duration) Presenter: Qu’in De La Noche (She/Her)This class offers a unique opportunity for dancers to build confidence and deepen bodily awareness in ways you’ve never felt before. Led by real-life martial artist and Afro-Latin burlesque icon Qu’in de la Noche\, students will learn the fundamentals of weapons flow through breathwork\, intentional movement\, and drills designed to encourage interactive play. Together\, we move with purpose\, precision\, and power – with intentional movement designed to elevate your natural flow through simple exercises\, combat-inspired choreography\, and respect for the blade above all. Prerequisites: At least 1 year of consistent dance training or equivalent movement coordination. All are welcome. Attendees are encouraged to bring a prop weapon. No live weapons shall be used in this workshop. \n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 1:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: La Reina (They/Them) When you’re on the stage do you imagine that you’re a Warrior Royalty battling your way to the throne? Or a Fiendish Ghoul hunting your prey for just the taste of life that sustains you? Or do you imagine that you’re some winged creature building up the courage to fly\, to soar and to be free? Then this is the workshop for you. Building a world around your acts allows you to fully step into the storytelling of Burlesque. Storytelling is one of the many beautiful elements of the performing arts. It creates a space where not only does your audience feel transported into another plane of existence\, but gives you the brush to paint\, to remember\, to honor your experiences\, dreams and visions of and for your life that then becomes transformative moments every time you step on the stage. Storytelling can impact everything in a performance. From lighting direction to costuming to even how you welcome tease into the art\, showcasing your world is a much needed tool in the toolbelt of an artist. What we will cover: Building a Character Sheet of our Stage Persona Story Structure Movement Inspirations Themes & Motifs   Please bring a writing utensil\, notebook\, and comfortable clothes & shoes for light movement. \n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 11AM (1 hour duration) Presenter: Silver Kitsune (They/Them) Do you see more experienced performers and marvel at their custom costumes? Do you worry that you’ll never level up if you don’t have a degree in design or a sponsor to finance your stage life? Then this introductory class is the place to start! Join Silver Kitsune\, costumer\, fabricator\, and designer\, as they walk you through the methods they use to upcycle thrift store finds and customize store-bought basics. Everyone starts from square one\, but there is no reason you have to stay there! In this class\, you will learn the best techniques for sourcing on a tight budget\, what to look for to optimize your thrifting\, basic tailoring hacks to custom fit your costumes to your body\, how to design specifically for stage reveals\, and at what point it’s best to just buy it pre-made. Transform yourself from Cosplay Fledgling to Nerdlesque Star! \n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 12:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: RedRum (She/Her)A little bit PEEPshow\, a little bit FREAKshow…a little bit CREEPshow! Burlesque Performance Artist RedRum will demonstrate quick and creative uses of scar wax\, gelatin based FX productsand other means of achieving dimension with basic makeup tools. We will create one large scar to learn how to sculpt and manipulate wax and one face melt burn using the 3D Gel. Learn how to transition the edges and “dress” the wounds with blood gel and color to enhance the horrific effect! Materials are not required for participation in the workshop. Materials being used if you do want to play along: Ben Nye Scar and Nose WaxMehron SynWax Synthetic Modeling WaxMehron Makeup 3D Gel\, Blood Red and FleshMehron Spirit GumMehron Liquid LatexStipple SpongeMehron MakeupMakeup SpatulaFake BloodBen Nye color wheels with a variety of reds\, yellow and bluesSmall hot plate and small heat safe cup or container\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n PURCHASE FESTIVAL & WORKSHOP TICKETS\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thank you to our 2026-2027 Season Supporters! URL:https://www.danceplace.org/performances/blacklight-summit-2/ LOCATION:Dance Place\, 3225 8th Street NE\, Washington\, DC\, 20017\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.danceplace.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/afterGLOW_BY-Photos-by-Sekou-Luke-Designed-by-MX-Oops-featuring-Jason-Rodriguez-stefa-marin-alarcon-and-Trggered.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20250228T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20250228T210000 DTSTAMP:20260817T141002 CREATED:20241107T170817Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250220T144716Z UID:41089-1740769200-1740776400@www.danceplace.org SUMMARY:Amelia Estrada & Gabriel Mata DESCRIPTION:Image Description: A performer in a strappy costume\, heels and crown\, opens their wings in a strong\, empowering walk. The stage is washed in a red and orange glow. In the bottom right corner\, over a circular pink gradient\, reads the Dance Place logo in white lettering. Photo Credit: Tansura T. Photography. \n \n \n \n The International Nerdlesque Festival \n \n \n \n September 11–13\, 2026 The International Nerdlesque Festival (TINF) returns in 2026 for its most immersive and ambitious year yet\, bringing its signature blend of fandom\, rhinestones\, and glitter to the Nation’s Capital. Cosplay meets cabaret in this pop-culture and burlesque spectacular: DC’s “Comic Con in a Corset” lands September 11-12 at Dance Place. This two-night extravaganza invites audiences into a universe where the grown and sexy meet the geeky and fabulous. Each night features a different showcase celebrating popular culture across media\, set against a sultry\, intimate nightlife backdrop.  Plus exclusive workshops\, vending\, and community events led by our performers and festival partners!  \n \n \n \n \n \n About TNIF\n Performers\n Performances\n \n \n About TNIF\n Originally founded in 2014 in New York City\, the International Nerdlesque Festival was the first burlesque festival in the world to spotlight nerdlesque: a performance genre where pop culture\, fandom\, and striptease collide. From Star Wars tributes to anime-inspired acts\, this genre revels in the power of fantasy\, nostalgia\, and queer creativity. After more than a decade of showcasing talent from around the world\, the festival expanded to Washington\, DC in 2021 \n Performers\n With an all-star lineup of burlesque royalty\, TINF 2026 will feature headlining performances from Top 50 Most Influential Burlesque Star La Reina (NO) and Silver Tusk Award Winner Red Rum (IL)—plus standout acts by Silver Kitsune (IL)\, Qu’in De La Noche (CA)\, and TNA Wrestling/TROMA star Monique Dupree (MD). The creative team includes Maki Roll (DMV)\, Kimono Jones (DMV)\, and Jove Galore (DC)\, all respected visionaries in performance art\, nightlife\, and immersive entertainment. \n Performances\n 9/11: Nerdvana: Retro Rewind kicks off the International Nerdlesque Festival with a sexy\, campy blast from the past.  Join us as we dive headfirst into beloved fandoms and comically cursed earworms of yesteryear. 9/12: The International Nerdlesque Festival Mega Showcase features a brand new lineup of national and international cabaret superstars\, bringing your favorite iconic characters and fandoms to life in ways you’ve never seen before. Nerdy\, cheeky\, and gloriously unhinged! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Workshops \n \n \n \n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 11AM (2 hour duration) Presenter: Qu’in De La Noche (She/Her)This class offers a unique opportunity for dancers to build confidence and deepen bodily awareness in ways you’ve never felt before. Led by real-life martial artist and Afro-Latin burlesque icon Qu’in de la Noche\, students will learn the fundamentals of weapons flow through breathwork\, intentional movement\, and drills designed to encourage interactive play. Together\, we move with purpose\, precision\, and power – with intentional movement designed to elevate your natural flow through simple exercises\, combat-inspired choreography\, and respect for the blade above all. Prerequisites: At least 1 year of consistent dance training or equivalent movement coordination. All are welcome. Attendees are encouraged to bring a prop weapon. No live weapons shall be used in this workshop. \n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 1:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: La Reina (They/Them) When you’re on the stage do you imagine that you’re a Warrior Royalty battling your way to the throne? Or a Fiendish Ghoul hunting your prey for just the taste of life that sustains you? Or do you imagine that you’re some winged creature building up the courage to fly\, to soar and to be free? Then this is the workshop for you. Building a world around your acts allows you to fully step into the storytelling of Burlesque. Storytelling is one of the many beautiful elements of the performing arts. It creates a space where not only does your audience feel transported into another plane of existence\, but gives you the brush to paint\, to remember\, to honor your experiences\, dreams and visions of and for your life that then becomes transformative moments every time you step on the stage. Storytelling can impact everything in a performance. From lighting direction to costuming to even how you welcome tease into the art\, showcasing your world is a much needed tool in the toolbelt of an artist. What we will cover: Building a Character Sheet of our Stage Persona Story Structure Movement Inspirations Themes & Motifs   Please bring a writing utensil\, notebook\, and comfortable clothes & shoes for light movement. \n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 11AM (1 hour duration) Presenter: Silver Kitsune (They/Them) Do you see more experienced performers and marvel at their custom costumes? Do you worry that you’ll never level up if you don’t have a degree in design or a sponsor to finance your stage life? Then this introductory class is the place to start! Join Silver Kitsune\, costumer\, fabricator\, and designer\, as they walk you through the methods they use to upcycle thrift store finds and customize store-bought basics. Everyone starts from square one\, but there is no reason you have to stay there! In this class\, you will learn the best techniques for sourcing on a tight budget\, what to look for to optimize your thrifting\, basic tailoring hacks to custom fit your costumes to your body\, how to design specifically for stage reveals\, and at what point it’s best to just buy it pre-made. Transform yourself from Cosplay Fledgling to Nerdlesque Star! \n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 12:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: RedRum (She/Her)A little bit PEEPshow\, a little bit FREAKshow…a little bit CREEPshow! Burlesque Performance Artist RedRum will demonstrate quick and creative uses of scar wax\, gelatin based FX productsand other means of achieving dimension with basic makeup tools. We will create one large scar to learn how to sculpt and manipulate wax and one face melt burn using the 3D Gel. Learn how to transition the edges and “dress” the wounds with blood gel and color to enhance the horrific effect! Materials are not required for participation in the workshop. Materials being used if you do want to play along: Ben Nye Scar and Nose WaxMehron SynWax Synthetic Modeling WaxMehron Makeup 3D Gel\, Blood Red and FleshMehron Spirit GumMehron Liquid LatexStipple SpongeMehron MakeupMakeup SpatulaFake BloodBen Nye color wheels with a variety of reds\, yellow and bluesSmall hot plate and small heat safe cup or container\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n PURCHASE FESTIVAL & WORKSHOP TICKETS\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thank you to our 2026-2027 Season Supporters! URL:https://www.danceplace.org/performances/amelia-gabriel/ LOCATION:Dance Place\, 3225 8th Street NE\, Washington\, DC\, 20017\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.danceplace.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Amelia-Estrada-Gabriel-Mata_BY-Jackie-Han-@jackiexphoto-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20250314T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20250315T190000 DTSTAMP:20260817T141002 CREATED:20241107T173219Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250306T195350Z UID:41098-1741978800-1742065200@www.danceplace.org SUMMARY:Nejla Yatkin DESCRIPTION:Image Description: A performer in a strappy costume\, heels and crown\, opens their wings in a strong\, empowering walk. The stage is washed in a red and orange glow. In the bottom right corner\, over a circular pink gradient\, reads the Dance Place logo in white lettering. Photo Credit: Tansura T. Photography. \n \n \n \n The International Nerdlesque Festival \n \n \n \n September 11–13\, 2026 The International Nerdlesque Festival (TINF) returns in 2026 for its most immersive and ambitious year yet\, bringing its signature blend of fandom\, rhinestones\, and glitter to the Nation’s Capital. Cosplay meets cabaret in this pop-culture and burlesque spectacular: DC’s “Comic Con in a Corset” lands September 11-12 at Dance Place. This two-night extravaganza invites audiences into a universe where the grown and sexy meet the geeky and fabulous. Each night features a different showcase celebrating popular culture across media\, set against a sultry\, intimate nightlife backdrop.  Plus exclusive workshops\, vending\, and community events led by our performers and festival partners!  \n \n \n \n \n \n About TNIF\n Performers\n Performances\n \n \n About TNIF\n Originally founded in 2014 in New York City\, the International Nerdlesque Festival was the first burlesque festival in the world to spotlight nerdlesque: a performance genre where pop culture\, fandom\, and striptease collide. From Star Wars tributes to anime-inspired acts\, this genre revels in the power of fantasy\, nostalgia\, and queer creativity. After more than a decade of showcasing talent from around the world\, the festival expanded to Washington\, DC in 2021 \n Performers\n With an all-star lineup of burlesque royalty\, TINF 2026 will feature headlining performances from Top 50 Most Influential Burlesque Star La Reina (NO) and Silver Tusk Award Winner Red Rum (IL)—plus standout acts by Silver Kitsune (IL)\, Qu’in De La Noche (CA)\, and TNA Wrestling/TROMA star Monique Dupree (MD). The creative team includes Maki Roll (DMV)\, Kimono Jones (DMV)\, and Jove Galore (DC)\, all respected visionaries in performance art\, nightlife\, and immersive entertainment. \n Performances\n 9/11: Nerdvana: Retro Rewind kicks off the International Nerdlesque Festival with a sexy\, campy blast from the past.  Join us as we dive headfirst into beloved fandoms and comically cursed earworms of yesteryear. 9/12: The International Nerdlesque Festival Mega Showcase features a brand new lineup of national and international cabaret superstars\, bringing your favorite iconic characters and fandoms to life in ways you’ve never seen before. Nerdy\, cheeky\, and gloriously unhinged! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Workshops \n \n \n \n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 11AM (2 hour duration) Presenter: Qu’in De La Noche (She/Her)This class offers a unique opportunity for dancers to build confidence and deepen bodily awareness in ways you’ve never felt before. Led by real-life martial artist and Afro-Latin burlesque icon Qu’in de la Noche\, students will learn the fundamentals of weapons flow through breathwork\, intentional movement\, and drills designed to encourage interactive play. Together\, we move with purpose\, precision\, and power – with intentional movement designed to elevate your natural flow through simple exercises\, combat-inspired choreography\, and respect for the blade above all. Prerequisites: At least 1 year of consistent dance training or equivalent movement coordination. All are welcome. Attendees are encouraged to bring a prop weapon. No live weapons shall be used in this workshop. \n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 1:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: La Reina (They/Them) When you’re on the stage do you imagine that you’re a Warrior Royalty battling your way to the throne? Or a Fiendish Ghoul hunting your prey for just the taste of life that sustains you? Or do you imagine that you’re some winged creature building up the courage to fly\, to soar and to be free? Then this is the workshop for you. Building a world around your acts allows you to fully step into the storytelling of Burlesque. Storytelling is one of the many beautiful elements of the performing arts. It creates a space where not only does your audience feel transported into another plane of existence\, but gives you the brush to paint\, to remember\, to honor your experiences\, dreams and visions of and for your life that then becomes transformative moments every time you step on the stage. Storytelling can impact everything in a performance. From lighting direction to costuming to even how you welcome tease into the art\, showcasing your world is a much needed tool in the toolbelt of an artist. What we will cover: Building a Character Sheet of our Stage Persona Story Structure Movement Inspirations Themes & Motifs   Please bring a writing utensil\, notebook\, and comfortable clothes & shoes for light movement. \n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 11AM (1 hour duration) Presenter: Silver Kitsune (They/Them) Do you see more experienced performers and marvel at their custom costumes? Do you worry that you’ll never level up if you don’t have a degree in design or a sponsor to finance your stage life? Then this introductory class is the place to start! Join Silver Kitsune\, costumer\, fabricator\, and designer\, as they walk you through the methods they use to upcycle thrift store finds and customize store-bought basics. Everyone starts from square one\, but there is no reason you have to stay there! In this class\, you will learn the best techniques for sourcing on a tight budget\, what to look for to optimize your thrifting\, basic tailoring hacks to custom fit your costumes to your body\, how to design specifically for stage reveals\, and at what point it’s best to just buy it pre-made. Transform yourself from Cosplay Fledgling to Nerdlesque Star! \n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 12:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: RedRum (She/Her)A little bit PEEPshow\, a little bit FREAKshow…a little bit CREEPshow! Burlesque Performance Artist RedRum will demonstrate quick and creative uses of scar wax\, gelatin based FX productsand other means of achieving dimension with basic makeup tools. We will create one large scar to learn how to sculpt and manipulate wax and one face melt burn using the 3D Gel. Learn how to transition the edges and “dress” the wounds with blood gel and color to enhance the horrific effect! Materials are not required for participation in the workshop. Materials being used if you do want to play along: Ben Nye Scar and Nose WaxMehron SynWax Synthetic Modeling WaxMehron Makeup 3D Gel\, Blood Red and FleshMehron Spirit GumMehron Liquid LatexStipple SpongeMehron MakeupMakeup SpatulaFake BloodBen Nye color wheels with a variety of reds\, yellow and bluesSmall hot plate and small heat safe cup or container\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n PURCHASE FESTIVAL & WORKSHOP TICKETS\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thank you to our 2026-2027 Season Supporters! URL:https://www.danceplace.org/performances/nejla-yatkin/ LOCATION:Dance Place\, 3225 8th Street NE\, Washington\, DC\, 20017\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.danceplace.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Nejla-Yatkin_BY-Enki-Andrews-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20250321T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20250322T190000 DTSTAMP:20260817T141002 CREATED:20241115T190434Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250318T134412Z UID:41171-1742583600-1742670000@www.danceplace.org SUMMARY:Claire Alrich DESCRIPTION:Image Description: A performer in a strappy costume\, heels and crown\, opens their wings in a strong\, empowering walk. The stage is washed in a red and orange glow. In the bottom right corner\, over a circular pink gradient\, reads the Dance Place logo in white lettering. Photo Credit: Tansura T. Photography. \n \n \n \n The International Nerdlesque Festival \n \n \n \n September 11–13\, 2026 The International Nerdlesque Festival (TINF) returns in 2026 for its most immersive and ambitious year yet\, bringing its signature blend of fandom\, rhinestones\, and glitter to the Nation’s Capital. Cosplay meets cabaret in this pop-culture and burlesque spectacular: DC’s “Comic Con in a Corset” lands September 11-12 at Dance Place. This two-night extravaganza invites audiences into a universe where the grown and sexy meet the geeky and fabulous. Each night features a different showcase celebrating popular culture across media\, set against a sultry\, intimate nightlife backdrop.  Plus exclusive workshops\, vending\, and community events led by our performers and festival partners!  \n \n \n \n \n \n About TNIF\n Performers\n Performances\n \n \n About TNIF\n Originally founded in 2014 in New York City\, the International Nerdlesque Festival was the first burlesque festival in the world to spotlight nerdlesque: a performance genre where pop culture\, fandom\, and striptease collide. From Star Wars tributes to anime-inspired acts\, this genre revels in the power of fantasy\, nostalgia\, and queer creativity. After more than a decade of showcasing talent from around the world\, the festival expanded to Washington\, DC in 2021 \n Performers\n With an all-star lineup of burlesque royalty\, TINF 2026 will feature headlining performances from Top 50 Most Influential Burlesque Star La Reina (NO) and Silver Tusk Award Winner Red Rum (IL)—plus standout acts by Silver Kitsune (IL)\, Qu’in De La Noche (CA)\, and TNA Wrestling/TROMA star Monique Dupree (MD). The creative team includes Maki Roll (DMV)\, Kimono Jones (DMV)\, and Jove Galore (DC)\, all respected visionaries in performance art\, nightlife\, and immersive entertainment. \n Performances\n 9/11: Nerdvana: Retro Rewind kicks off the International Nerdlesque Festival with a sexy\, campy blast from the past.  Join us as we dive headfirst into beloved fandoms and comically cursed earworms of yesteryear. 9/12: The International Nerdlesque Festival Mega Showcase features a brand new lineup of national and international cabaret superstars\, bringing your favorite iconic characters and fandoms to life in ways you’ve never seen before. Nerdy\, cheeky\, and gloriously unhinged! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Workshops \n \n \n \n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 11AM (2 hour duration) Presenter: Qu’in De La Noche (She/Her)This class offers a unique opportunity for dancers to build confidence and deepen bodily awareness in ways you’ve never felt before. Led by real-life martial artist and Afro-Latin burlesque icon Qu’in de la Noche\, students will learn the fundamentals of weapons flow through breathwork\, intentional movement\, and drills designed to encourage interactive play. Together\, we move with purpose\, precision\, and power – with intentional movement designed to elevate your natural flow through simple exercises\, combat-inspired choreography\, and respect for the blade above all. Prerequisites: At least 1 year of consistent dance training or equivalent movement coordination. All are welcome. Attendees are encouraged to bring a prop weapon. No live weapons shall be used in this workshop. \n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 1:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: La Reina (They/Them) When you’re on the stage do you imagine that you’re a Warrior Royalty battling your way to the throne? Or a Fiendish Ghoul hunting your prey for just the taste of life that sustains you? Or do you imagine that you’re some winged creature building up the courage to fly\, to soar and to be free? Then this is the workshop for you. Building a world around your acts allows you to fully step into the storytelling of Burlesque. Storytelling is one of the many beautiful elements of the performing arts. It creates a space where not only does your audience feel transported into another plane of existence\, but gives you the brush to paint\, to remember\, to honor your experiences\, dreams and visions of and for your life that then becomes transformative moments every time you step on the stage. Storytelling can impact everything in a performance. From lighting direction to costuming to even how you welcome tease into the art\, showcasing your world is a much needed tool in the toolbelt of an artist. What we will cover: Building a Character Sheet of our Stage Persona Story Structure Movement Inspirations Themes & Motifs   Please bring a writing utensil\, notebook\, and comfortable clothes & shoes for light movement. \n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 11AM (1 hour duration) Presenter: Silver Kitsune (They/Them) Do you see more experienced performers and marvel at their custom costumes? Do you worry that you’ll never level up if you don’t have a degree in design or a sponsor to finance your stage life? Then this introductory class is the place to start! Join Silver Kitsune\, costumer\, fabricator\, and designer\, as they walk you through the methods they use to upcycle thrift store finds and customize store-bought basics. Everyone starts from square one\, but there is no reason you have to stay there! In this class\, you will learn the best techniques for sourcing on a tight budget\, what to look for to optimize your thrifting\, basic tailoring hacks to custom fit your costumes to your body\, how to design specifically for stage reveals\, and at what point it’s best to just buy it pre-made. Transform yourself from Cosplay Fledgling to Nerdlesque Star! \n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 12:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: RedRum (She/Her)A little bit PEEPshow\, a little bit FREAKshow…a little bit CREEPshow! Burlesque Performance Artist RedRum will demonstrate quick and creative uses of scar wax\, gelatin based FX productsand other means of achieving dimension with basic makeup tools. We will create one large scar to learn how to sculpt and manipulate wax and one face melt burn using the 3D Gel. Learn how to transition the edges and “dress” the wounds with blood gel and color to enhance the horrific effect! Materials are not required for participation in the workshop. Materials being used if you do want to play along: Ben Nye Scar and Nose WaxMehron SynWax Synthetic Modeling WaxMehron Makeup 3D Gel\, Blood Red and FleshMehron Spirit GumMehron Liquid LatexStipple SpongeMehron MakeupMakeup SpatulaFake BloodBen Nye color wheels with a variety of reds\, yellow and bluesSmall hot plate and small heat safe cup or container\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n PURCHASE FESTIVAL & WORKSHOP TICKETS\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thank you to our 2026-2027 Season Supporters! URL:https://www.danceplace.org/performances/claire-alrich/ LOCATION:Dance Place\, 3225 8th Street NE\, Washington\, DC\, 20017\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.danceplace.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Claire-Alrich_BY-Marisa-Rasum-3.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20250404T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20250406T180000 DTSTAMP:20260817T141002 CREATED:20250107T154838Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250220T143255Z UID:41450-1743793200-1743962400@www.danceplace.org SUMMARY:Orange Grove Dance: A&I DESCRIPTION:Image Description: A performer in a strappy costume\, heels and crown\, opens their wings in a strong\, empowering walk. The stage is washed in a red and orange glow. In the bottom right corner\, over a circular pink gradient\, reads the Dance Place logo in white lettering. Photo Credit: Tansura T. Photography. \n \n \n \n The International Nerdlesque Festival \n \n \n \n September 11–13\, 2026 The International Nerdlesque Festival (TINF) returns in 2026 for its most immersive and ambitious year yet\, bringing its signature blend of fandom\, rhinestones\, and glitter to the Nation’s Capital. Cosplay meets cabaret in this pop-culture and burlesque spectacular: DC’s “Comic Con in a Corset” lands September 11-12 at Dance Place. This two-night extravaganza invites audiences into a universe where the grown and sexy meet the geeky and fabulous. Each night features a different showcase celebrating popular culture across media\, set against a sultry\, intimate nightlife backdrop.  Plus exclusive workshops\, vending\, and community events led by our performers and festival partners!  \n \n \n \n \n \n About TNIF\n Performers\n Performances\n \n \n About TNIF\n Originally founded in 2014 in New York City\, the International Nerdlesque Festival was the first burlesque festival in the world to spotlight nerdlesque: a performance genre where pop culture\, fandom\, and striptease collide. From Star Wars tributes to anime-inspired acts\, this genre revels in the power of fantasy\, nostalgia\, and queer creativity. After more than a decade of showcasing talent from around the world\, the festival expanded to Washington\, DC in 2021 \n Performers\n With an all-star lineup of burlesque royalty\, TINF 2026 will feature headlining performances from Top 50 Most Influential Burlesque Star La Reina (NO) and Silver Tusk Award Winner Red Rum (IL)—plus standout acts by Silver Kitsune (IL)\, Qu’in De La Noche (CA)\, and TNA Wrestling/TROMA star Monique Dupree (MD). The creative team includes Maki Roll (DMV)\, Kimono Jones (DMV)\, and Jove Galore (DC)\, all respected visionaries in performance art\, nightlife\, and immersive entertainment. \n Performances\n 9/11: Nerdvana: Retro Rewind kicks off the International Nerdlesque Festival with a sexy\, campy blast from the past.  Join us as we dive headfirst into beloved fandoms and comically cursed earworms of yesteryear. 9/12: The International Nerdlesque Festival Mega Showcase features a brand new lineup of national and international cabaret superstars\, bringing your favorite iconic characters and fandoms to life in ways you’ve never seen before. Nerdy\, cheeky\, and gloriously unhinged! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Workshops \n \n \n \n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 11AM (2 hour duration) Presenter: Qu’in De La Noche (She/Her)This class offers a unique opportunity for dancers to build confidence and deepen bodily awareness in ways you’ve never felt before. Led by real-life martial artist and Afro-Latin burlesque icon Qu’in de la Noche\, students will learn the fundamentals of weapons flow through breathwork\, intentional movement\, and drills designed to encourage interactive play. Together\, we move with purpose\, precision\, and power – with intentional movement designed to elevate your natural flow through simple exercises\, combat-inspired choreography\, and respect for the blade above all. Prerequisites: At least 1 year of consistent dance training or equivalent movement coordination. All are welcome. Attendees are encouraged to bring a prop weapon. No live weapons shall be used in this workshop. \n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 1:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: La Reina (They/Them) When you’re on the stage do you imagine that you’re a Warrior Royalty battling your way to the throne? Or a Fiendish Ghoul hunting your prey for just the taste of life that sustains you? Or do you imagine that you’re some winged creature building up the courage to fly\, to soar and to be free? Then this is the workshop for you. Building a world around your acts allows you to fully step into the storytelling of Burlesque. Storytelling is one of the many beautiful elements of the performing arts. It creates a space where not only does your audience feel transported into another plane of existence\, but gives you the brush to paint\, to remember\, to honor your experiences\, dreams and visions of and for your life that then becomes transformative moments every time you step on the stage. Storytelling can impact everything in a performance. From lighting direction to costuming to even how you welcome tease into the art\, showcasing your world is a much needed tool in the toolbelt of an artist. What we will cover: Building a Character Sheet of our Stage Persona Story Structure Movement Inspirations Themes & Motifs   Please bring a writing utensil\, notebook\, and comfortable clothes & shoes for light movement. \n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 11AM (1 hour duration) Presenter: Silver Kitsune (They/Them) Do you see more experienced performers and marvel at their custom costumes? Do you worry that you’ll never level up if you don’t have a degree in design or a sponsor to finance your stage life? Then this introductory class is the place to start! Join Silver Kitsune\, costumer\, fabricator\, and designer\, as they walk you through the methods they use to upcycle thrift store finds and customize store-bought basics. Everyone starts from square one\, but there is no reason you have to stay there! In this class\, you will learn the best techniques for sourcing on a tight budget\, what to look for to optimize your thrifting\, basic tailoring hacks to custom fit your costumes to your body\, how to design specifically for stage reveals\, and at what point it’s best to just buy it pre-made. Transform yourself from Cosplay Fledgling to Nerdlesque Star! \n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 12:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: RedRum (She/Her)A little bit PEEPshow\, a little bit FREAKshow…a little bit CREEPshow! Burlesque Performance Artist RedRum will demonstrate quick and creative uses of scar wax\, gelatin based FX productsand other means of achieving dimension with basic makeup tools. We will create one large scar to learn how to sculpt and manipulate wax and one face melt burn using the 3D Gel. Learn how to transition the edges and “dress” the wounds with blood gel and color to enhance the horrific effect! Materials are not required for participation in the workshop. Materials being used if you do want to play along: Ben Nye Scar and Nose WaxMehron SynWax Synthetic Modeling WaxMehron Makeup 3D Gel\, Blood Red and FleshMehron Spirit GumMehron Liquid LatexStipple SpongeMehron MakeupMakeup SpatulaFake BloodBen Nye color wheels with a variety of reds\, yellow and bluesSmall hot plate and small heat safe cup or container\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n PURCHASE FESTIVAL & WORKSHOP TICKETS\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thank you to our 2026-2027 Season Supporters! URL:https://www.danceplace.org/performances/orange-grove-ai/ LOCATION:Dance Place\, 3225 8th Street NE\, Washington\, DC\, 20017\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.danceplace.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/OGD_BY-Matt-Reeves.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250517 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250519 DTSTAMP:20260817T141002 CREATED:20250122T152102Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250327T205415Z UID:41711-1747440000-1747612799@www.danceplace.org SUMMARY:Spring Youth Showcase DESCRIPTION:Image Description: A performer in a strappy costume\, heels and crown\, opens their wings in a strong\, empowering walk. The stage is washed in a red and orange glow. In the bottom right corner\, over a circular pink gradient\, reads the Dance Place logo in white lettering. Photo Credit: Tansura T. Photography. \n \n \n \n The International Nerdlesque Festival \n \n \n \n September 11–13\, 2026 The International Nerdlesque Festival (TINF) returns in 2026 for its most immersive and ambitious year yet\, bringing its signature blend of fandom\, rhinestones\, and glitter to the Nation’s Capital. Cosplay meets cabaret in this pop-culture and burlesque spectacular: DC’s “Comic Con in a Corset” lands September 11-12 at Dance Place. This two-night extravaganza invites audiences into a universe where the grown and sexy meet the geeky and fabulous. Each night features a different showcase celebrating popular culture across media\, set against a sultry\, intimate nightlife backdrop.  Plus exclusive workshops\, vending\, and community events led by our performers and festival partners!  \n \n \n \n \n \n About TNIF\n Performers\n Performances\n \n \n About TNIF\n Originally founded in 2014 in New York City\, the International Nerdlesque Festival was the first burlesque festival in the world to spotlight nerdlesque: a performance genre where pop culture\, fandom\, and striptease collide. From Star Wars tributes to anime-inspired acts\, this genre revels in the power of fantasy\, nostalgia\, and queer creativity. After more than a decade of showcasing talent from around the world\, the festival expanded to Washington\, DC in 2021 \n Performers\n With an all-star lineup of burlesque royalty\, TINF 2026 will feature headlining performances from Top 50 Most Influential Burlesque Star La Reina (NO) and Silver Tusk Award Winner Red Rum (IL)—plus standout acts by Silver Kitsune (IL)\, Qu’in De La Noche (CA)\, and TNA Wrestling/TROMA star Monique Dupree (MD). The creative team includes Maki Roll (DMV)\, Kimono Jones (DMV)\, and Jove Galore (DC)\, all respected visionaries in performance art\, nightlife\, and immersive entertainment. \n Performances\n 9/11: Nerdvana: Retro Rewind kicks off the International Nerdlesque Festival with a sexy\, campy blast from the past.  Join us as we dive headfirst into beloved fandoms and comically cursed earworms of yesteryear. 9/12: The International Nerdlesque Festival Mega Showcase features a brand new lineup of national and international cabaret superstars\, bringing your favorite iconic characters and fandoms to life in ways you’ve never seen before. Nerdy\, cheeky\, and gloriously unhinged! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Workshops \n \n \n \n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 11AM (2 hour duration) Presenter: Qu’in De La Noche (She/Her)This class offers a unique opportunity for dancers to build confidence and deepen bodily awareness in ways you’ve never felt before. Led by real-life martial artist and Afro-Latin burlesque icon Qu’in de la Noche\, students will learn the fundamentals of weapons flow through breathwork\, intentional movement\, and drills designed to encourage interactive play. Together\, we move with purpose\, precision\, and power – with intentional movement designed to elevate your natural flow through simple exercises\, combat-inspired choreography\, and respect for the blade above all. Prerequisites: At least 1 year of consistent dance training or equivalent movement coordination. All are welcome. Attendees are encouraged to bring a prop weapon. No live weapons shall be used in this workshop. \n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 1:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: La Reina (They/Them) When you’re on the stage do you imagine that you’re a Warrior Royalty battling your way to the throne? Or a Fiendish Ghoul hunting your prey for just the taste of life that sustains you? Or do you imagine that you’re some winged creature building up the courage to fly\, to soar and to be free? Then this is the workshop for you. Building a world around your acts allows you to fully step into the storytelling of Burlesque. Storytelling is one of the many beautiful elements of the performing arts. It creates a space where not only does your audience feel transported into another plane of existence\, but gives you the brush to paint\, to remember\, to honor your experiences\, dreams and visions of and for your life that then becomes transformative moments every time you step on the stage. Storytelling can impact everything in a performance. From lighting direction to costuming to even how you welcome tease into the art\, showcasing your world is a much needed tool in the toolbelt of an artist. What we will cover: Building a Character Sheet of our Stage Persona Story Structure Movement Inspirations Themes & Motifs   Please bring a writing utensil\, notebook\, and comfortable clothes & shoes for light movement. \n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 11AM (1 hour duration) Presenter: Silver Kitsune (They/Them) Do you see more experienced performers and marvel at their custom costumes? Do you worry that you’ll never level up if you don’t have a degree in design or a sponsor to finance your stage life? Then this introductory class is the place to start! Join Silver Kitsune\, costumer\, fabricator\, and designer\, as they walk you through the methods they use to upcycle thrift store finds and customize store-bought basics. Everyone starts from square one\, but there is no reason you have to stay there! In this class\, you will learn the best techniques for sourcing on a tight budget\, what to look for to optimize your thrifting\, basic tailoring hacks to custom fit your costumes to your body\, how to design specifically for stage reveals\, and at what point it’s best to just buy it pre-made. Transform yourself from Cosplay Fledgling to Nerdlesque Star! \n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 12:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: RedRum (She/Her)A little bit PEEPshow\, a little bit FREAKshow…a little bit CREEPshow! Burlesque Performance Artist RedRum will demonstrate quick and creative uses of scar wax\, gelatin based FX productsand other means of achieving dimension with basic makeup tools. We will create one large scar to learn how to sculpt and manipulate wax and one face melt burn using the 3D Gel. Learn how to transition the edges and “dress” the wounds with blood gel and color to enhance the horrific effect! Materials are not required for participation in the workshop. Materials being used if you do want to play along: Ben Nye Scar and Nose WaxMehron SynWax Synthetic Modeling WaxMehron Makeup 3D Gel\, Blood Red and FleshMehron Spirit GumMehron Liquid LatexStipple SpongeMehron MakeupMakeup SpatulaFake BloodBen Nye color wheels with a variety of reds\, yellow and bluesSmall hot plate and small heat safe cup or container\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n PURCHASE FESTIVAL & WORKSHOP TICKETS\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thank you to our 2026-2027 Season Supporters! URL:https://www.danceplace.org/performances/spring-youth-showcase-2025/ LOCATION:Dance Place\, 3225 8th Street NE\, Washington\, DC\, 20017\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.danceplace.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/SYS-by-David-Dowlings-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250526 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250531 DTSTAMP:20260817T141002 CREATED:20250424T161019Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250516T211356Z UID:42912-1748217600-1748649599@www.danceplace.org SUMMARY:Christopher K. Morgan + Malashock Dance Residency & Masterclass DESCRIPTION:Image Description: A performer in a strappy costume\, heels and crown\, opens their wings in a strong\, empowering walk. The stage is washed in a red and orange glow. In the bottom right corner\, over a circular pink gradient\, reads the Dance Place logo in white lettering. Photo Credit: Tansura T. Photography. \n \n \n \n The International Nerdlesque Festival \n \n \n \n September 11–13\, 2026 The International Nerdlesque Festival (TINF) returns in 2026 for its most immersive and ambitious year yet\, bringing its signature blend of fandom\, rhinestones\, and glitter to the Nation’s Capital. Cosplay meets cabaret in this pop-culture and burlesque spectacular: DC’s “Comic Con in a Corset” lands September 11-12 at Dance Place. This two-night extravaganza invites audiences into a universe where the grown and sexy meet the geeky and fabulous. Each night features a different showcase celebrating popular culture across media\, set against a sultry\, intimate nightlife backdrop.  Plus exclusive workshops\, vending\, and community events led by our performers and festival partners!  \n \n \n \n \n \n About TNIF\n Performers\n Performances\n \n \n About TNIF\n Originally founded in 2014 in New York City\, the International Nerdlesque Festival was the first burlesque festival in the world to spotlight nerdlesque: a performance genre where pop culture\, fandom\, and striptease collide. From Star Wars tributes to anime-inspired acts\, this genre revels in the power of fantasy\, nostalgia\, and queer creativity. After more than a decade of showcasing talent from around the world\, the festival expanded to Washington\, DC in 2021 \n Performers\n With an all-star lineup of burlesque royalty\, TINF 2026 will feature headlining performances from Top 50 Most Influential Burlesque Star La Reina (NO) and Silver Tusk Award Winner Red Rum (IL)—plus standout acts by Silver Kitsune (IL)\, Qu’in De La Noche (CA)\, and TNA Wrestling/TROMA star Monique Dupree (MD). The creative team includes Maki Roll (DMV)\, Kimono Jones (DMV)\, and Jove Galore (DC)\, all respected visionaries in performance art\, nightlife\, and immersive entertainment. \n Performances\n 9/11: Nerdvana: Retro Rewind kicks off the International Nerdlesque Festival with a sexy\, campy blast from the past.  Join us as we dive headfirst into beloved fandoms and comically cursed earworms of yesteryear. 9/12: The International Nerdlesque Festival Mega Showcase features a brand new lineup of national and international cabaret superstars\, bringing your favorite iconic characters and fandoms to life in ways you’ve never seen before. Nerdy\, cheeky\, and gloriously unhinged! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Workshops \n \n \n \n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 11AM (2 hour duration) Presenter: Qu’in De La Noche (She/Her)This class offers a unique opportunity for dancers to build confidence and deepen bodily awareness in ways you’ve never felt before. Led by real-life martial artist and Afro-Latin burlesque icon Qu’in de la Noche\, students will learn the fundamentals of weapons flow through breathwork\, intentional movement\, and drills designed to encourage interactive play. Together\, we move with purpose\, precision\, and power – with intentional movement designed to elevate your natural flow through simple exercises\, combat-inspired choreography\, and respect for the blade above all. Prerequisites: At least 1 year of consistent dance training or equivalent movement coordination. All are welcome. Attendees are encouraged to bring a prop weapon. No live weapons shall be used in this workshop. \n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 1:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: La Reina (They/Them) When you’re on the stage do you imagine that you’re a Warrior Royalty battling your way to the throne? Or a Fiendish Ghoul hunting your prey for just the taste of life that sustains you? Or do you imagine that you’re some winged creature building up the courage to fly\, to soar and to be free? Then this is the workshop for you. Building a world around your acts allows you to fully step into the storytelling of Burlesque. Storytelling is one of the many beautiful elements of the performing arts. It creates a space where not only does your audience feel transported into another plane of existence\, but gives you the brush to paint\, to remember\, to honor your experiences\, dreams and visions of and for your life that then becomes transformative moments every time you step on the stage. Storytelling can impact everything in a performance. From lighting direction to costuming to even how you welcome tease into the art\, showcasing your world is a much needed tool in the toolbelt of an artist. What we will cover: Building a Character Sheet of our Stage Persona Story Structure Movement Inspirations Themes & Motifs   Please bring a writing utensil\, notebook\, and comfortable clothes & shoes for light movement. \n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 11AM (1 hour duration) Presenter: Silver Kitsune (They/Them) Do you see more experienced performers and marvel at their custom costumes? Do you worry that you’ll never level up if you don’t have a degree in design or a sponsor to finance your stage life? Then this introductory class is the place to start! Join Silver Kitsune\, costumer\, fabricator\, and designer\, as they walk you through the methods they use to upcycle thrift store finds and customize store-bought basics. Everyone starts from square one\, but there is no reason you have to stay there! In this class\, you will learn the best techniques for sourcing on a tight budget\, what to look for to optimize your thrifting\, basic tailoring hacks to custom fit your costumes to your body\, how to design specifically for stage reveals\, and at what point it’s best to just buy it pre-made. Transform yourself from Cosplay Fledgling to Nerdlesque Star! \n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 12:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: RedRum (She/Her)A little bit PEEPshow\, a little bit FREAKshow…a little bit CREEPshow! Burlesque Performance Artist RedRum will demonstrate quick and creative uses of scar wax\, gelatin based FX productsand other means of achieving dimension with basic makeup tools. We will create one large scar to learn how to sculpt and manipulate wax and one face melt burn using the 3D Gel. Learn how to transition the edges and “dress” the wounds with blood gel and color to enhance the horrific effect! Materials are not required for participation in the workshop. Materials being used if you do want to play along: Ben Nye Scar and Nose WaxMehron SynWax Synthetic Modeling WaxMehron Makeup 3D Gel\, Blood Red and FleshMehron Spirit GumMehron Liquid LatexStipple SpongeMehron MakeupMakeup SpatulaFake BloodBen Nye color wheels with a variety of reds\, yellow and bluesSmall hot plate and small heat safe cup or container\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n PURCHASE FESTIVAL & WORKSHOP TICKETS\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thank you to our 2026-2027 Season Supporters! URL:https://www.danceplace.org/performances/christopher-k-morgan/ LOCATION:Dance Place\, 3225 8th Street NE\, Washington\, DC\, 20017\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.danceplace.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/The-Dulling-Effect.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20250602T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20250607T190000 DTSTAMP:20260817T141002 CREATED:20250328T052225Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250424T191357Z UID:42826-1748890800-1749322800@www.danceplace.org SUMMARY:Coyaba's Village Celebration DESCRIPTION:Image Description: A performer in a strappy costume\, heels and crown\, opens their wings in a strong\, empowering walk. The stage is washed in a red and orange glow. In the bottom right corner\, over a circular pink gradient\, reads the Dance Place logo in white lettering. Photo Credit: Tansura T. Photography. \n \n \n \n The International Nerdlesque Festival \n \n \n \n September 11–13\, 2026 The International Nerdlesque Festival (TINF) returns in 2026 for its most immersive and ambitious year yet\, bringing its signature blend of fandom\, rhinestones\, and glitter to the Nation’s Capital. Cosplay meets cabaret in this pop-culture and burlesque spectacular: DC’s “Comic Con in a Corset” lands September 11-12 at Dance Place. This two-night extravaganza invites audiences into a universe where the grown and sexy meet the geeky and fabulous. Each night features a different showcase celebrating popular culture across media\, set against a sultry\, intimate nightlife backdrop.  Plus exclusive workshops\, vending\, and community events led by our performers and festival partners!  \n \n \n \n \n \n About TNIF\n Performers\n Performances\n \n \n About TNIF\n Originally founded in 2014 in New York City\, the International Nerdlesque Festival was the first burlesque festival in the world to spotlight nerdlesque: a performance genre where pop culture\, fandom\, and striptease collide. From Star Wars tributes to anime-inspired acts\, this genre revels in the power of fantasy\, nostalgia\, and queer creativity. After more than a decade of showcasing talent from around the world\, the festival expanded to Washington\, DC in 2021 \n Performers\n With an all-star lineup of burlesque royalty\, TINF 2026 will feature headlining performances from Top 50 Most Influential Burlesque Star La Reina (NO) and Silver Tusk Award Winner Red Rum (IL)—plus standout acts by Silver Kitsune (IL)\, Qu’in De La Noche (CA)\, and TNA Wrestling/TROMA star Monique Dupree (MD). The creative team includes Maki Roll (DMV)\, Kimono Jones (DMV)\, and Jove Galore (DC)\, all respected visionaries in performance art\, nightlife\, and immersive entertainment. \n Performances\n 9/11: Nerdvana: Retro Rewind kicks off the International Nerdlesque Festival with a sexy\, campy blast from the past.  Join us as we dive headfirst into beloved fandoms and comically cursed earworms of yesteryear. 9/12: The International Nerdlesque Festival Mega Showcase features a brand new lineup of national and international cabaret superstars\, bringing your favorite iconic characters and fandoms to life in ways you’ve never seen before. Nerdy\, cheeky\, and gloriously unhinged! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Workshops \n \n \n \n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 11AM (2 hour duration) Presenter: Qu’in De La Noche (She/Her)This class offers a unique opportunity for dancers to build confidence and deepen bodily awareness in ways you’ve never felt before. Led by real-life martial artist and Afro-Latin burlesque icon Qu’in de la Noche\, students will learn the fundamentals of weapons flow through breathwork\, intentional movement\, and drills designed to encourage interactive play. Together\, we move with purpose\, precision\, and power – with intentional movement designed to elevate your natural flow through simple exercises\, combat-inspired choreography\, and respect for the blade above all. Prerequisites: At least 1 year of consistent dance training or equivalent movement coordination. All are welcome. Attendees are encouraged to bring a prop weapon. No live weapons shall be used in this workshop. \n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 1:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: La Reina (They/Them) When you’re on the stage do you imagine that you’re a Warrior Royalty battling your way to the throne? Or a Fiendish Ghoul hunting your prey for just the taste of life that sustains you? Or do you imagine that you’re some winged creature building up the courage to fly\, to soar and to be free? Then this is the workshop for you. Building a world around your acts allows you to fully step into the storytelling of Burlesque. Storytelling is one of the many beautiful elements of the performing arts. It creates a space where not only does your audience feel transported into another plane of existence\, but gives you the brush to paint\, to remember\, to honor your experiences\, dreams and visions of and for your life that then becomes transformative moments every time you step on the stage. Storytelling can impact everything in a performance. From lighting direction to costuming to even how you welcome tease into the art\, showcasing your world is a much needed tool in the toolbelt of an artist. What we will cover: Building a Character Sheet of our Stage Persona Story Structure Movement Inspirations Themes & Motifs   Please bring a writing utensil\, notebook\, and comfortable clothes & shoes for light movement. \n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 11AM (1 hour duration) Presenter: Silver Kitsune (They/Them) Do you see more experienced performers and marvel at their custom costumes? Do you worry that you’ll never level up if you don’t have a degree in design or a sponsor to finance your stage life? Then this introductory class is the place to start! Join Silver Kitsune\, costumer\, fabricator\, and designer\, as they walk you through the methods they use to upcycle thrift store finds and customize store-bought basics. Everyone starts from square one\, but there is no reason you have to stay there! In this class\, you will learn the best techniques for sourcing on a tight budget\, what to look for to optimize your thrifting\, basic tailoring hacks to custom fit your costumes to your body\, how to design specifically for stage reveals\, and at what point it’s best to just buy it pre-made. Transform yourself from Cosplay Fledgling to Nerdlesque Star! \n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 12:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: RedRum (She/Her)A little bit PEEPshow\, a little bit FREAKshow…a little bit CREEPshow! Burlesque Performance Artist RedRum will demonstrate quick and creative uses of scar wax\, gelatin based FX productsand other means of achieving dimension with basic makeup tools. We will create one large scar to learn how to sculpt and manipulate wax and one face melt burn using the 3D Gel. Learn how to transition the edges and “dress” the wounds with blood gel and color to enhance the horrific effect! Materials are not required for participation in the workshop. Materials being used if you do want to play along: Ben Nye Scar and Nose WaxMehron SynWax Synthetic Modeling WaxMehron Makeup 3D Gel\, Blood Red and FleshMehron Spirit GumMehron Liquid LatexStipple SpongeMehron MakeupMakeup SpatulaFake BloodBen Nye color wheels with a variety of reds\, yellow and bluesSmall hot plate and small heat safe cup or container\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n PURCHASE FESTIVAL & WORKSHOP TICKETS\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thank you to our 2026-2027 Season Supporters! URL:https://www.danceplace.org/performances/coyaba-village-celebration/ LOCATION:Dance Place\, 3225 8th Street NE\, Washington\, DC\, 20017\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.danceplace.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/unnamed.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20250613T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20250614T190000 DTSTAMP:20260817T141002 CREATED:20241122T175027Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250519T152106Z UID:41227-1749841200-1749927600@www.danceplace.org SUMMARY:Compañía Medusa DESCRIPTION:Image Description: A performer in a strappy costume\, heels and crown\, opens their wings in a strong\, empowering walk. The stage is washed in a red and orange glow. In the bottom right corner\, over a circular pink gradient\, reads the Dance Place logo in white lettering. Photo Credit: Tansura T. Photography. \n \n \n \n The International Nerdlesque Festival \n \n \n \n September 11–13\, 2026 The International Nerdlesque Festival (TINF) returns in 2026 for its most immersive and ambitious year yet\, bringing its signature blend of fandom\, rhinestones\, and glitter to the Nation’s Capital. Cosplay meets cabaret in this pop-culture and burlesque spectacular: DC’s “Comic Con in a Corset” lands September 11-12 at Dance Place. This two-night extravaganza invites audiences into a universe where the grown and sexy meet the geeky and fabulous. Each night features a different showcase celebrating popular culture across media\, set against a sultry\, intimate nightlife backdrop.  Plus exclusive workshops\, vending\, and community events led by our performers and festival partners!  \n \n \n \n \n \n About TNIF\n Performers\n Performances\n \n \n About TNIF\n Originally founded in 2014 in New York City\, the International Nerdlesque Festival was the first burlesque festival in the world to spotlight nerdlesque: a performance genre where pop culture\, fandom\, and striptease collide. From Star Wars tributes to anime-inspired acts\, this genre revels in the power of fantasy\, nostalgia\, and queer creativity. After more than a decade of showcasing talent from around the world\, the festival expanded to Washington\, DC in 2021 \n Performers\n With an all-star lineup of burlesque royalty\, TINF 2026 will feature headlining performances from Top 50 Most Influential Burlesque Star La Reina (NO) and Silver Tusk Award Winner Red Rum (IL)—plus standout acts by Silver Kitsune (IL)\, Qu’in De La Noche (CA)\, and TNA Wrestling/TROMA star Monique Dupree (MD). The creative team includes Maki Roll (DMV)\, Kimono Jones (DMV)\, and Jove Galore (DC)\, all respected visionaries in performance art\, nightlife\, and immersive entertainment. \n Performances\n 9/11: Nerdvana: Retro Rewind kicks off the International Nerdlesque Festival with a sexy\, campy blast from the past.  Join us as we dive headfirst into beloved fandoms and comically cursed earworms of yesteryear. 9/12: The International Nerdlesque Festival Mega Showcase features a brand new lineup of national and international cabaret superstars\, bringing your favorite iconic characters and fandoms to life in ways you’ve never seen before. Nerdy\, cheeky\, and gloriously unhinged! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Workshops \n \n \n \n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 11AM (2 hour duration) Presenter: Qu’in De La Noche (She/Her)This class offers a unique opportunity for dancers to build confidence and deepen bodily awareness in ways you’ve never felt before. Led by real-life martial artist and Afro-Latin burlesque icon Qu’in de la Noche\, students will learn the fundamentals of weapons flow through breathwork\, intentional movement\, and drills designed to encourage interactive play. Together\, we move with purpose\, precision\, and power – with intentional movement designed to elevate your natural flow through simple exercises\, combat-inspired choreography\, and respect for the blade above all. Prerequisites: At least 1 year of consistent dance training or equivalent movement coordination. All are welcome. Attendees are encouraged to bring a prop weapon. No live weapons shall be used in this workshop. \n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 1:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: La Reina (They/Them) When you’re on the stage do you imagine that you’re a Warrior Royalty battling your way to the throne? Or a Fiendish Ghoul hunting your prey for just the taste of life that sustains you? Or do you imagine that you’re some winged creature building up the courage to fly\, to soar and to be free? Then this is the workshop for you. Building a world around your acts allows you to fully step into the storytelling of Burlesque. Storytelling is one of the many beautiful elements of the performing arts. It creates a space where not only does your audience feel transported into another plane of existence\, but gives you the brush to paint\, to remember\, to honor your experiences\, dreams and visions of and for your life that then becomes transformative moments every time you step on the stage. Storytelling can impact everything in a performance. From lighting direction to costuming to even how you welcome tease into the art\, showcasing your world is a much needed tool in the toolbelt of an artist. What we will cover: Building a Character Sheet of our Stage Persona Story Structure Movement Inspirations Themes & Motifs   Please bring a writing utensil\, notebook\, and comfortable clothes & shoes for light movement. \n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 11AM (1 hour duration) Presenter: Silver Kitsune (They/Them) Do you see more experienced performers and marvel at their custom costumes? Do you worry that you’ll never level up if you don’t have a degree in design or a sponsor to finance your stage life? Then this introductory class is the place to start! Join Silver Kitsune\, costumer\, fabricator\, and designer\, as they walk you through the methods they use to upcycle thrift store finds and customize store-bought basics. Everyone starts from square one\, but there is no reason you have to stay there! In this class\, you will learn the best techniques for sourcing on a tight budget\, what to look for to optimize your thrifting\, basic tailoring hacks to custom fit your costumes to your body\, how to design specifically for stage reveals\, and at what point it’s best to just buy it pre-made. Transform yourself from Cosplay Fledgling to Nerdlesque Star! \n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 12:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: RedRum (She/Her)A little bit PEEPshow\, a little bit FREAKshow…a little bit CREEPshow! Burlesque Performance Artist RedRum will demonstrate quick and creative uses of scar wax\, gelatin based FX productsand other means of achieving dimension with basic makeup tools. We will create one large scar to learn how to sculpt and manipulate wax and one face melt burn using the 3D Gel. Learn how to transition the edges and “dress” the wounds with blood gel and color to enhance the horrific effect! Materials are not required for participation in the workshop. Materials being used if you do want to play along: Ben Nye Scar and Nose WaxMehron SynWax Synthetic Modeling WaxMehron Makeup 3D Gel\, Blood Red and FleshMehron Spirit GumMehron Liquid LatexStipple SpongeMehron MakeupMakeup SpatulaFake BloodBen Nye color wheels with a variety of reds\, yellow and bluesSmall hot plate and small heat safe cup or container\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n PURCHASE FESTIVAL & WORKSHOP TICKETS\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thank you to our 2026-2027 Season Supporters! URL:https://www.danceplace.org/performances/compania-medusa/ LOCATION:Dance Place\, 3225 8th Street NE\, Washington\, DC\, 20017\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.danceplace.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Compania-Medus_BY-Ale-Carmona-Photography.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20250711T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20250712T190000 DTSTAMP:20260817T141003 CREATED:20241122T181259Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250625T234232Z UID:41246-1752260400-1752346800@www.danceplace.org SUMMARY:Heart Stück Bernie DESCRIPTION:Image Description: A performer in a strappy costume\, heels and crown\, opens their wings in a strong\, empowering walk. The stage is washed in a red and orange glow. In the bottom right corner\, over a circular pink gradient\, reads the Dance Place logo in white lettering. Photo Credit: Tansura T. Photography. \n \n \n \n The International Nerdlesque Festival \n \n \n \n September 11–13\, 2026 The International Nerdlesque Festival (TINF) returns in 2026 for its most immersive and ambitious year yet\, bringing its signature blend of fandom\, rhinestones\, and glitter to the Nation’s Capital. Cosplay meets cabaret in this pop-culture and burlesque spectacular: DC’s “Comic Con in a Corset” lands September 11-12 at Dance Place. This two-night extravaganza invites audiences into a universe where the grown and sexy meet the geeky and fabulous. Each night features a different showcase celebrating popular culture across media\, set against a sultry\, intimate nightlife backdrop.  Plus exclusive workshops\, vending\, and community events led by our performers and festival partners!  \n \n \n \n \n \n About TNIF\n Performers\n Performances\n \n \n About TNIF\n Originally founded in 2014 in New York City\, the International Nerdlesque Festival was the first burlesque festival in the world to spotlight nerdlesque: a performance genre where pop culture\, fandom\, and striptease collide. From Star Wars tributes to anime-inspired acts\, this genre revels in the power of fantasy\, nostalgia\, and queer creativity. After more than a decade of showcasing talent from around the world\, the festival expanded to Washington\, DC in 2021 \n Performers\n With an all-star lineup of burlesque royalty\, TINF 2026 will feature headlining performances from Top 50 Most Influential Burlesque Star La Reina (NO) and Silver Tusk Award Winner Red Rum (IL)—plus standout acts by Silver Kitsune (IL)\, Qu’in De La Noche (CA)\, and TNA Wrestling/TROMA star Monique Dupree (MD). The creative team includes Maki Roll (DMV)\, Kimono Jones (DMV)\, and Jove Galore (DC)\, all respected visionaries in performance art\, nightlife\, and immersive entertainment. \n Performances\n 9/11: Nerdvana: Retro Rewind kicks off the International Nerdlesque Festival with a sexy\, campy blast from the past.  Join us as we dive headfirst into beloved fandoms and comically cursed earworms of yesteryear. 9/12: The International Nerdlesque Festival Mega Showcase features a brand new lineup of national and international cabaret superstars\, bringing your favorite iconic characters and fandoms to life in ways you’ve never seen before. Nerdy\, cheeky\, and gloriously unhinged! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Workshops \n \n \n \n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 11AM (2 hour duration) Presenter: Qu’in De La Noche (She/Her)This class offers a unique opportunity for dancers to build confidence and deepen bodily awareness in ways you’ve never felt before. Led by real-life martial artist and Afro-Latin burlesque icon Qu’in de la Noche\, students will learn the fundamentals of weapons flow through breathwork\, intentional movement\, and drills designed to encourage interactive play. Together\, we move with purpose\, precision\, and power – with intentional movement designed to elevate your natural flow through simple exercises\, combat-inspired choreography\, and respect for the blade above all. Prerequisites: At least 1 year of consistent dance training or equivalent movement coordination. All are welcome. Attendees are encouraged to bring a prop weapon. No live weapons shall be used in this workshop. \n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 1:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: La Reina (They/Them) When you’re on the stage do you imagine that you’re a Warrior Royalty battling your way to the throne? Or a Fiendish Ghoul hunting your prey for just the taste of life that sustains you? Or do you imagine that you’re some winged creature building up the courage to fly\, to soar and to be free? Then this is the workshop for you. Building a world around your acts allows you to fully step into the storytelling of Burlesque. Storytelling is one of the many beautiful elements of the performing arts. It creates a space where not only does your audience feel transported into another plane of existence\, but gives you the brush to paint\, to remember\, to honor your experiences\, dreams and visions of and for your life that then becomes transformative moments every time you step on the stage. Storytelling can impact everything in a performance. From lighting direction to costuming to even how you welcome tease into the art\, showcasing your world is a much needed tool in the toolbelt of an artist. What we will cover: Building a Character Sheet of our Stage Persona Story Structure Movement Inspirations Themes & Motifs   Please bring a writing utensil\, notebook\, and comfortable clothes & shoes for light movement. \n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 11AM (1 hour duration) Presenter: Silver Kitsune (They/Them) Do you see more experienced performers and marvel at their custom costumes? Do you worry that you’ll never level up if you don’t have a degree in design or a sponsor to finance your stage life? Then this introductory class is the place to start! Join Silver Kitsune\, costumer\, fabricator\, and designer\, as they walk you through the methods they use to upcycle thrift store finds and customize store-bought basics. Everyone starts from square one\, but there is no reason you have to stay there! In this class\, you will learn the best techniques for sourcing on a tight budget\, what to look for to optimize your thrifting\, basic tailoring hacks to custom fit your costumes to your body\, how to design specifically for stage reveals\, and at what point it’s best to just buy it pre-made. Transform yourself from Cosplay Fledgling to Nerdlesque Star! \n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 12:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: RedRum (She/Her)A little bit PEEPshow\, a little bit FREAKshow…a little bit CREEPshow! Burlesque Performance Artist RedRum will demonstrate quick and creative uses of scar wax\, gelatin based FX productsand other means of achieving dimension with basic makeup tools. We will create one large scar to learn how to sculpt and manipulate wax and one face melt burn using the 3D Gel. Learn how to transition the edges and “dress” the wounds with blood gel and color to enhance the horrific effect! Materials are not required for participation in the workshop. Materials being used if you do want to play along: Ben Nye Scar and Nose WaxMehron SynWax Synthetic Modeling WaxMehron Makeup 3D Gel\, Blood Red and FleshMehron Spirit GumMehron Liquid LatexStipple SpongeMehron MakeupMakeup SpatulaFake BloodBen Nye color wheels with a variety of reds\, yellow and bluesSmall hot plate and small heat safe cup or container\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n PURCHASE FESTIVAL & WORKSHOP TICKETS\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thank you to our 2026-2027 Season Supporters! URL:https://www.danceplace.org/performances/heart-stuck-bernie-2/ LOCATION:Dance Place\, 3225 8th Street NE\, Washington\, DC\, 20017\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.danceplace.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/HSB_BY-C.-Stanley-Photography.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20250725T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20250725T220000 DTSTAMP:20260817T141003 CREATED:20250708T040042Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250720T221730Z UID:43169-1753470000-1753480800@www.danceplace.org SUMMARY:Backseat Boogie - A 90s Burlesque Cabaret Show DESCRIPTION:Image Description: A performer in a strappy costume\, heels and crown\, opens their wings in a strong\, empowering walk. The stage is washed in a red and orange glow. In the bottom right corner\, over a circular pink gradient\, reads the Dance Place logo in white lettering. Photo Credit: Tansura T. Photography. \n \n \n \n The International Nerdlesque Festival \n \n \n \n September 11–13\, 2026 The International Nerdlesque Festival (TINF) returns in 2026 for its most immersive and ambitious year yet\, bringing its signature blend of fandom\, rhinestones\, and glitter to the Nation’s Capital. Cosplay meets cabaret in this pop-culture and burlesque spectacular: DC’s “Comic Con in a Corset” lands September 11-12 at Dance Place. This two-night extravaganza invites audiences into a universe where the grown and sexy meet the geeky and fabulous. Each night features a different showcase celebrating popular culture across media\, set against a sultry\, intimate nightlife backdrop.  Plus exclusive workshops\, vending\, and community events led by our performers and festival partners!  \n \n \n \n \n \n About TNIF\n Performers\n Performances\n \n \n About TNIF\n Originally founded in 2014 in New York City\, the International Nerdlesque Festival was the first burlesque festival in the world to spotlight nerdlesque: a performance genre where pop culture\, fandom\, and striptease collide. From Star Wars tributes to anime-inspired acts\, this genre revels in the power of fantasy\, nostalgia\, and queer creativity. After more than a decade of showcasing talent from around the world\, the festival expanded to Washington\, DC in 2021 \n Performers\n With an all-star lineup of burlesque royalty\, TINF 2026 will feature headlining performances from Top 50 Most Influential Burlesque Star La Reina (NO) and Silver Tusk Award Winner Red Rum (IL)—plus standout acts by Silver Kitsune (IL)\, Qu’in De La Noche (CA)\, and TNA Wrestling/TROMA star Monique Dupree (MD). The creative team includes Maki Roll (DMV)\, Kimono Jones (DMV)\, and Jove Galore (DC)\, all respected visionaries in performance art\, nightlife\, and immersive entertainment. \n Performances\n 9/11: Nerdvana: Retro Rewind kicks off the International Nerdlesque Festival with a sexy\, campy blast from the past.  Join us as we dive headfirst into beloved fandoms and comically cursed earworms of yesteryear. 9/12: The International Nerdlesque Festival Mega Showcase features a brand new lineup of national and international cabaret superstars\, bringing your favorite iconic characters and fandoms to life in ways you’ve never seen before. Nerdy\, cheeky\, and gloriously unhinged! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Workshops \n \n \n \n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 11AM (2 hour duration) Presenter: Qu’in De La Noche (She/Her)This class offers a unique opportunity for dancers to build confidence and deepen bodily awareness in ways you’ve never felt before. Led by real-life martial artist and Afro-Latin burlesque icon Qu’in de la Noche\, students will learn the fundamentals of weapons flow through breathwork\, intentional movement\, and drills designed to encourage interactive play. Together\, we move with purpose\, precision\, and power – with intentional movement designed to elevate your natural flow through simple exercises\, combat-inspired choreography\, and respect for the blade above all. Prerequisites: At least 1 year of consistent dance training or equivalent movement coordination. All are welcome. Attendees are encouraged to bring a prop weapon. No live weapons shall be used in this workshop. \n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 1:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: La Reina (They/Them) When you’re on the stage do you imagine that you’re a Warrior Royalty battling your way to the throne? Or a Fiendish Ghoul hunting your prey for just the taste of life that sustains you? Or do you imagine that you’re some winged creature building up the courage to fly\, to soar and to be free? Then this is the workshop for you. Building a world around your acts allows you to fully step into the storytelling of Burlesque. Storytelling is one of the many beautiful elements of the performing arts. It creates a space where not only does your audience feel transported into another plane of existence\, but gives you the brush to paint\, to remember\, to honor your experiences\, dreams and visions of and for your life that then becomes transformative moments every time you step on the stage. Storytelling can impact everything in a performance. From lighting direction to costuming to even how you welcome tease into the art\, showcasing your world is a much needed tool in the toolbelt of an artist. What we will cover: Building a Character Sheet of our Stage Persona Story Structure Movement Inspirations Themes & Motifs   Please bring a writing utensil\, notebook\, and comfortable clothes & shoes for light movement. \n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 11AM (1 hour duration) Presenter: Silver Kitsune (They/Them) Do you see more experienced performers and marvel at their custom costumes? Do you worry that you’ll never level up if you don’t have a degree in design or a sponsor to finance your stage life? Then this introductory class is the place to start! Join Silver Kitsune\, costumer\, fabricator\, and designer\, as they walk you through the methods they use to upcycle thrift store finds and customize store-bought basics. Everyone starts from square one\, but there is no reason you have to stay there! In this class\, you will learn the best techniques for sourcing on a tight budget\, what to look for to optimize your thrifting\, basic tailoring hacks to custom fit your costumes to your body\, how to design specifically for stage reveals\, and at what point it’s best to just buy it pre-made. Transform yourself from Cosplay Fledgling to Nerdlesque Star! \n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 12:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: RedRum (She/Her)A little bit PEEPshow\, a little bit FREAKshow…a little bit CREEPshow! Burlesque Performance Artist RedRum will demonstrate quick and creative uses of scar wax\, gelatin based FX productsand other means of achieving dimension with basic makeup tools. We will create one large scar to learn how to sculpt and manipulate wax and one face melt burn using the 3D Gel. Learn how to transition the edges and “dress” the wounds with blood gel and color to enhance the horrific effect! Materials are not required for participation in the workshop. Materials being used if you do want to play along: Ben Nye Scar and Nose WaxMehron SynWax Synthetic Modeling WaxMehron Makeup 3D Gel\, Blood Red and FleshMehron Spirit GumMehron Liquid LatexStipple SpongeMehron MakeupMakeup SpatulaFake BloodBen Nye color wheels with a variety of reds\, yellow and bluesSmall hot plate and small heat safe cup or container\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n PURCHASE FESTIVAL & WORKSHOP TICKETS\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thank you to our 2026-2027 Season Supporters! URL:https://www.danceplace.org/performances/backseat-boogie-a-90s-burlesque-cabaret-show/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.danceplace.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Backseat-Boogie-updated.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250807 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250809 DTSTAMP:20260817T141003 CREATED:20250218T230056Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250721T165559Z UID:36083-1754524800-1754697599@www.danceplace.org SUMMARY:Energizers Creative Arts Summer Camp Show DESCRIPTION:Image Description: A performer in a strappy costume\, heels and crown\, opens their wings in a strong\, empowering walk. The stage is washed in a red and orange glow. In the bottom right corner\, over a circular pink gradient\, reads the Dance Place logo in white lettering. Photo Credit: Tansura T. Photography. \n \n \n \n The International Nerdlesque Festival \n \n \n \n September 11–13\, 2026 The International Nerdlesque Festival (TINF) returns in 2026 for its most immersive and ambitious year yet\, bringing its signature blend of fandom\, rhinestones\, and glitter to the Nation’s Capital. Cosplay meets cabaret in this pop-culture and burlesque spectacular: DC’s “Comic Con in a Corset” lands September 11-12 at Dance Place. This two-night extravaganza invites audiences into a universe where the grown and sexy meet the geeky and fabulous. Each night features a different showcase celebrating popular culture across media\, set against a sultry\, intimate nightlife backdrop.  Plus exclusive workshops\, vending\, and community events led by our performers and festival partners!  \n \n \n \n \n \n About TNIF\n Performers\n Performances\n \n \n About TNIF\n Originally founded in 2014 in New York City\, the International Nerdlesque Festival was the first burlesque festival in the world to spotlight nerdlesque: a performance genre where pop culture\, fandom\, and striptease collide. From Star Wars tributes to anime-inspired acts\, this genre revels in the power of fantasy\, nostalgia\, and queer creativity. After more than a decade of showcasing talent from around the world\, the festival expanded to Washington\, DC in 2021 \n Performers\n With an all-star lineup of burlesque royalty\, TINF 2026 will feature headlining performances from Top 50 Most Influential Burlesque Star La Reina (NO) and Silver Tusk Award Winner Red Rum (IL)—plus standout acts by Silver Kitsune (IL)\, Qu’in De La Noche (CA)\, and TNA Wrestling/TROMA star Monique Dupree (MD). The creative team includes Maki Roll (DMV)\, Kimono Jones (DMV)\, and Jove Galore (DC)\, all respected visionaries in performance art\, nightlife\, and immersive entertainment. \n Performances\n 9/11: Nerdvana: Retro Rewind kicks off the International Nerdlesque Festival with a sexy\, campy blast from the past.  Join us as we dive headfirst into beloved fandoms and comically cursed earworms of yesteryear. 9/12: The International Nerdlesque Festival Mega Showcase features a brand new lineup of national and international cabaret superstars\, bringing your favorite iconic characters and fandoms to life in ways you’ve never seen before. Nerdy\, cheeky\, and gloriously unhinged! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Workshops \n \n \n \n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 11AM (2 hour duration) Presenter: Qu’in De La Noche (She/Her)This class offers a unique opportunity for dancers to build confidence and deepen bodily awareness in ways you’ve never felt before. Led by real-life martial artist and Afro-Latin burlesque icon Qu’in de la Noche\, students will learn the fundamentals of weapons flow through breathwork\, intentional movement\, and drills designed to encourage interactive play. Together\, we move with purpose\, precision\, and power – with intentional movement designed to elevate your natural flow through simple exercises\, combat-inspired choreography\, and respect for the blade above all. Prerequisites: At least 1 year of consistent dance training or equivalent movement coordination. All are welcome. Attendees are encouraged to bring a prop weapon. No live weapons shall be used in this workshop. \n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 1:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: La Reina (They/Them) When you’re on the stage do you imagine that you’re a Warrior Royalty battling your way to the throne? Or a Fiendish Ghoul hunting your prey for just the taste of life that sustains you? Or do you imagine that you’re some winged creature building up the courage to fly\, to soar and to be free? Then this is the workshop for you. Building a world around your acts allows you to fully step into the storytelling of Burlesque. Storytelling is one of the many beautiful elements of the performing arts. It creates a space where not only does your audience feel transported into another plane of existence\, but gives you the brush to paint\, to remember\, to honor your experiences\, dreams and visions of and for your life that then becomes transformative moments every time you step on the stage. Storytelling can impact everything in a performance. From lighting direction to costuming to even how you welcome tease into the art\, showcasing your world is a much needed tool in the toolbelt of an artist. What we will cover: Building a Character Sheet of our Stage Persona Story Structure Movement Inspirations Themes & Motifs   Please bring a writing utensil\, notebook\, and comfortable clothes & shoes for light movement. \n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 11AM (1 hour duration) Presenter: Silver Kitsune (They/Them) Do you see more experienced performers and marvel at their custom costumes? Do you worry that you’ll never level up if you don’t have a degree in design or a sponsor to finance your stage life? Then this introductory class is the place to start! Join Silver Kitsune\, costumer\, fabricator\, and designer\, as they walk you through the methods they use to upcycle thrift store finds and customize store-bought basics. Everyone starts from square one\, but there is no reason you have to stay there! In this class\, you will learn the best techniques for sourcing on a tight budget\, what to look for to optimize your thrifting\, basic tailoring hacks to custom fit your costumes to your body\, how to design specifically for stage reveals\, and at what point it’s best to just buy it pre-made. Transform yourself from Cosplay Fledgling to Nerdlesque Star! \n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 12:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: RedRum (She/Her)A little bit PEEPshow\, a little bit FREAKshow…a little bit CREEPshow! Burlesque Performance Artist RedRum will demonstrate quick and creative uses of scar wax\, gelatin based FX productsand other means of achieving dimension with basic makeup tools. We will create one large scar to learn how to sculpt and manipulate wax and one face melt burn using the 3D Gel. Learn how to transition the edges and “dress” the wounds with blood gel and color to enhance the horrific effect! Materials are not required for participation in the workshop. Materials being used if you do want to play along: Ben Nye Scar and Nose WaxMehron SynWax Synthetic Modeling WaxMehron Makeup 3D Gel\, Blood Red and FleshMehron Spirit GumMehron Liquid LatexStipple SpongeMehron MakeupMakeup SpatulaFake BloodBen Nye color wheels with a variety of reds\, yellow and bluesSmall hot plate and small heat safe cup or container\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n PURCHASE FESTIVAL & WORKSHOP TICKETS\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thank you to our 2026-2027 Season Supporters! URL:https://www.danceplace.org/performances/energizers-creative-arts-camp-show-25/ LOCATION:Dance Place\, 3225 8th Street NE\, Washington\, DC\, 20017\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.danceplace.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Summer-Camp-by-David-Dowlings.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250807 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250809 DTSTAMP:20260817T141003 CREATED:20250616T190046Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251128T191743Z UID:43232-1754524800-1754697599@www.danceplace.org SUMMARY:2025-2026 Season: Home is Coming DESCRIPTION:Image Description: A performer in a strappy costume\, heels and crown\, opens their wings in a strong\, empowering walk. The stage is washed in a red and orange glow. In the bottom right corner\, over a circular pink gradient\, reads the Dance Place logo in white lettering. Photo Credit: Tansura T. Photography. \n \n \n \n The International Nerdlesque Festival \n \n \n \n September 11–13\, 2026 The International Nerdlesque Festival (TINF) returns in 2026 for its most immersive and ambitious year yet\, bringing its signature blend of fandom\, rhinestones\, and glitter to the Nation’s Capital. Cosplay meets cabaret in this pop-culture and burlesque spectacular: DC’s “Comic Con in a Corset” lands September 11-12 at Dance Place. This two-night extravaganza invites audiences into a universe where the grown and sexy meet the geeky and fabulous. Each night features a different showcase celebrating popular culture across media\, set against a sultry\, intimate nightlife backdrop.  Plus exclusive workshops\, vending\, and community events led by our performers and festival partners!  \n \n \n \n \n \n About TNIF\n Performers\n Performances\n \n \n About TNIF\n Originally founded in 2014 in New York City\, the International Nerdlesque Festival was the first burlesque festival in the world to spotlight nerdlesque: a performance genre where pop culture\, fandom\, and striptease collide. From Star Wars tributes to anime-inspired acts\, this genre revels in the power of fantasy\, nostalgia\, and queer creativity. After more than a decade of showcasing talent from around the world\, the festival expanded to Washington\, DC in 2021 \n Performers\n With an all-star lineup of burlesque royalty\, TINF 2026 will feature headlining performances from Top 50 Most Influential Burlesque Star La Reina (NO) and Silver Tusk Award Winner Red Rum (IL)—plus standout acts by Silver Kitsune (IL)\, Qu’in De La Noche (CA)\, and TNA Wrestling/TROMA star Monique Dupree (MD). The creative team includes Maki Roll (DMV)\, Kimono Jones (DMV)\, and Jove Galore (DC)\, all respected visionaries in performance art\, nightlife\, and immersive entertainment. \n Performances\n 9/11: Nerdvana: Retro Rewind kicks off the International Nerdlesque Festival with a sexy\, campy blast from the past.  Join us as we dive headfirst into beloved fandoms and comically cursed earworms of yesteryear. 9/12: The International Nerdlesque Festival Mega Showcase features a brand new lineup of national and international cabaret superstars\, bringing your favorite iconic characters and fandoms to life in ways you’ve never seen before. Nerdy\, cheeky\, and gloriously unhinged! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Workshops \n \n \n \n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 11AM (2 hour duration) Presenter: Qu’in De La Noche (She/Her)This class offers a unique opportunity for dancers to build confidence and deepen bodily awareness in ways you’ve never felt before. Led by real-life martial artist and Afro-Latin burlesque icon Qu’in de la Noche\, students will learn the fundamentals of weapons flow through breathwork\, intentional movement\, and drills designed to encourage interactive play. Together\, we move with purpose\, precision\, and power – with intentional movement designed to elevate your natural flow through simple exercises\, combat-inspired choreography\, and respect for the blade above all. Prerequisites: At least 1 year of consistent dance training or equivalent movement coordination. All are welcome. Attendees are encouraged to bring a prop weapon. No live weapons shall be used in this workshop. \n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 1:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: La Reina (They/Them) When you’re on the stage do you imagine that you’re a Warrior Royalty battling your way to the throne? Or a Fiendish Ghoul hunting your prey for just the taste of life that sustains you? Or do you imagine that you’re some winged creature building up the courage to fly\, to soar and to be free? Then this is the workshop for you. Building a world around your acts allows you to fully step into the storytelling of Burlesque. Storytelling is one of the many beautiful elements of the performing arts. It creates a space where not only does your audience feel transported into another plane of existence\, but gives you the brush to paint\, to remember\, to honor your experiences\, dreams and visions of and for your life that then becomes transformative moments every time you step on the stage. Storytelling can impact everything in a performance. From lighting direction to costuming to even how you welcome tease into the art\, showcasing your world is a much needed tool in the toolbelt of an artist. What we will cover: Building a Character Sheet of our Stage Persona Story Structure Movement Inspirations Themes & Motifs   Please bring a writing utensil\, notebook\, and comfortable clothes & shoes for light movement. \n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 11AM (1 hour duration) Presenter: Silver Kitsune (They/Them) Do you see more experienced performers and marvel at their custom costumes? Do you worry that you’ll never level up if you don’t have a degree in design or a sponsor to finance your stage life? Then this introductory class is the place to start! Join Silver Kitsune\, costumer\, fabricator\, and designer\, as they walk you through the methods they use to upcycle thrift store finds and customize store-bought basics. Everyone starts from square one\, but there is no reason you have to stay there! In this class\, you will learn the best techniques for sourcing on a tight budget\, what to look for to optimize your thrifting\, basic tailoring hacks to custom fit your costumes to your body\, how to design specifically for stage reveals\, and at what point it’s best to just buy it pre-made. Transform yourself from Cosplay Fledgling to Nerdlesque Star! \n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 12:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: RedRum (She/Her)A little bit PEEPshow\, a little bit FREAKshow…a little bit CREEPshow! Burlesque Performance Artist RedRum will demonstrate quick and creative uses of scar wax\, gelatin based FX productsand other means of achieving dimension with basic makeup tools. We will create one large scar to learn how to sculpt and manipulate wax and one face melt burn using the 3D Gel. Learn how to transition the edges and “dress” the wounds with blood gel and color to enhance the horrific effect! Materials are not required for participation in the workshop. Materials being used if you do want to play along: Ben Nye Scar and Nose WaxMehron SynWax Synthetic Modeling WaxMehron Makeup 3D Gel\, Blood Red and FleshMehron Spirit GumMehron Liquid LatexStipple SpongeMehron MakeupMakeup SpatulaFake BloodBen Nye color wheels with a variety of reds\, yellow and bluesSmall hot plate and small heat safe cup or container\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n PURCHASE FESTIVAL & WORKSHOP TICKETS\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thank you to our 2026-2027 Season Supporters! URL:https://www.danceplace.org/performances/home-is-coming/ LOCATION:Dance Place\, 3225 8th Street NE\, Washington\, DC\, 20017\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.danceplace.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Banner-4.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250908 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250915 DTSTAMP:20260817T141003 CREATED:20250715T222407Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250825T150757Z UID:43590-1757289600-1757894399@www.danceplace.org SUMMARY:Spirit Week: A 5-Day Homecoming Celebration DESCRIPTION:Image Description: A performer in a strappy costume\, heels and crown\, opens their wings in a strong\, empowering walk. The stage is washed in a red and orange glow. In the bottom right corner\, over a circular pink gradient\, reads the Dance Place logo in white lettering. Photo Credit: Tansura T. Photography. \n \n \n \n The International Nerdlesque Festival \n \n \n \n September 11–13\, 2026 The International Nerdlesque Festival (TINF) returns in 2026 for its most immersive and ambitious year yet\, bringing its signature blend of fandom\, rhinestones\, and glitter to the Nation’s Capital. Cosplay meets cabaret in this pop-culture and burlesque spectacular: DC’s “Comic Con in a Corset” lands September 11-12 at Dance Place. This two-night extravaganza invites audiences into a universe where the grown and sexy meet the geeky and fabulous. Each night features a different showcase celebrating popular culture across media\, set against a sultry\, intimate nightlife backdrop.  Plus exclusive workshops\, vending\, and community events led by our performers and festival partners!  \n \n \n \n \n \n About TNIF\n Performers\n Performances\n \n \n About TNIF\n Originally founded in 2014 in New York City\, the International Nerdlesque Festival was the first burlesque festival in the world to spotlight nerdlesque: a performance genre where pop culture\, fandom\, and striptease collide. From Star Wars tributes to anime-inspired acts\, this genre revels in the power of fantasy\, nostalgia\, and queer creativity. After more than a decade of showcasing talent from around the world\, the festival expanded to Washington\, DC in 2021 \n Performers\n With an all-star lineup of burlesque royalty\, TINF 2026 will feature headlining performances from Top 50 Most Influential Burlesque Star La Reina (NO) and Silver Tusk Award Winner Red Rum (IL)—plus standout acts by Silver Kitsune (IL)\, Qu’in De La Noche (CA)\, and TNA Wrestling/TROMA star Monique Dupree (MD). The creative team includes Maki Roll (DMV)\, Kimono Jones (DMV)\, and Jove Galore (DC)\, all respected visionaries in performance art\, nightlife\, and immersive entertainment. \n Performances\n 9/11: Nerdvana: Retro Rewind kicks off the International Nerdlesque Festival with a sexy\, campy blast from the past.  Join us as we dive headfirst into beloved fandoms and comically cursed earworms of yesteryear. 9/12: The International Nerdlesque Festival Mega Showcase features a brand new lineup of national and international cabaret superstars\, bringing your favorite iconic characters and fandoms to life in ways you’ve never seen before. Nerdy\, cheeky\, and gloriously unhinged! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Workshops \n \n \n \n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 11AM (2 hour duration) Presenter: Qu’in De La Noche (She/Her)This class offers a unique opportunity for dancers to build confidence and deepen bodily awareness in ways you’ve never felt before. Led by real-life martial artist and Afro-Latin burlesque icon Qu’in de la Noche\, students will learn the fundamentals of weapons flow through breathwork\, intentional movement\, and drills designed to encourage interactive play. Together\, we move with purpose\, precision\, and power – with intentional movement designed to elevate your natural flow through simple exercises\, combat-inspired choreography\, and respect for the blade above all. Prerequisites: At least 1 year of consistent dance training or equivalent movement coordination. All are welcome. Attendees are encouraged to bring a prop weapon. No live weapons shall be used in this workshop. \n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 1:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: La Reina (They/Them) When you’re on the stage do you imagine that you’re a Warrior Royalty battling your way to the throne? Or a Fiendish Ghoul hunting your prey for just the taste of life that sustains you? Or do you imagine that you’re some winged creature building up the courage to fly\, to soar and to be free? Then this is the workshop for you. Building a world around your acts allows you to fully step into the storytelling of Burlesque. Storytelling is one of the many beautiful elements of the performing arts. It creates a space where not only does your audience feel transported into another plane of existence\, but gives you the brush to paint\, to remember\, to honor your experiences\, dreams and visions of and for your life that then becomes transformative moments every time you step on the stage. Storytelling can impact everything in a performance. From lighting direction to costuming to even how you welcome tease into the art\, showcasing your world is a much needed tool in the toolbelt of an artist. What we will cover: Building a Character Sheet of our Stage Persona Story Structure Movement Inspirations Themes & Motifs   Please bring a writing utensil\, notebook\, and comfortable clothes & shoes for light movement. \n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 11AM (1 hour duration) Presenter: Silver Kitsune (They/Them) Do you see more experienced performers and marvel at their custom costumes? Do you worry that you’ll never level up if you don’t have a degree in design or a sponsor to finance your stage life? Then this introductory class is the place to start! Join Silver Kitsune\, costumer\, fabricator\, and designer\, as they walk you through the methods they use to upcycle thrift store finds and customize store-bought basics. Everyone starts from square one\, but there is no reason you have to stay there! In this class\, you will learn the best techniques for sourcing on a tight budget\, what to look for to optimize your thrifting\, basic tailoring hacks to custom fit your costumes to your body\, how to design specifically for stage reveals\, and at what point it’s best to just buy it pre-made. Transform yourself from Cosplay Fledgling to Nerdlesque Star! \n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 12:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: RedRum (She/Her)A little bit PEEPshow\, a little bit FREAKshow…a little bit CREEPshow! Burlesque Performance Artist RedRum will demonstrate quick and creative uses of scar wax\, gelatin based FX productsand other means of achieving dimension with basic makeup tools. We will create one large scar to learn how to sculpt and manipulate wax and one face melt burn using the 3D Gel. Learn how to transition the edges and “dress” the wounds with blood gel and color to enhance the horrific effect! Materials are not required for participation in the workshop. Materials being used if you do want to play along: Ben Nye Scar and Nose WaxMehron SynWax Synthetic Modeling WaxMehron Makeup 3D Gel\, Blood Red and FleshMehron Spirit GumMehron Liquid LatexStipple SpongeMehron MakeupMakeup SpatulaFake BloodBen Nye color wheels with a variety of reds\, yellow and bluesSmall hot plate and small heat safe cup or container\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n PURCHASE FESTIVAL & WORKSHOP TICKETS\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thank you to our 2026-2027 Season Supporters! URL:https://www.danceplace.org/performances/spirit-week-homecoming-45/ LOCATION:Dance Place\, 3225 8th Street NE\, Washington\, DC\, 20017\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.danceplace.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Spirit-Week-2.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20250910T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20250910T170000 DTSTAMP:20260817T141003 CREATED:20250910T190040Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250930T175131Z UID:44190-1757491200-1757523600@www.danceplace.org SUMMARY:Dance Place AFTER DARK: Spookshow Spectacular DESCRIPTION:Image Description: A performer in a strappy costume\, heels and crown\, opens their wings in a strong\, empowering walk. The stage is washed in a red and orange glow. In the bottom right corner\, over a circular pink gradient\, reads the Dance Place logo in white lettering. Photo Credit: Tansura T. Photography. \n \n \n \n The International Nerdlesque Festival \n \n \n \n September 11–13\, 2026 The International Nerdlesque Festival (TINF) returns in 2026 for its most immersive and ambitious year yet\, bringing its signature blend of fandom\, rhinestones\, and glitter to the Nation’s Capital. Cosplay meets cabaret in this pop-culture and burlesque spectacular: DC’s “Comic Con in a Corset” lands September 11-12 at Dance Place. This two-night extravaganza invites audiences into a universe where the grown and sexy meet the geeky and fabulous. Each night features a different showcase celebrating popular culture across media\, set against a sultry\, intimate nightlife backdrop.  Plus exclusive workshops\, vending\, and community events led by our performers and festival partners!  \n \n \n \n \n \n About TNIF\n Performers\n Performances\n \n \n About TNIF\n Originally founded in 2014 in New York City\, the International Nerdlesque Festival was the first burlesque festival in the world to spotlight nerdlesque: a performance genre where pop culture\, fandom\, and striptease collide. From Star Wars tributes to anime-inspired acts\, this genre revels in the power of fantasy\, nostalgia\, and queer creativity. After more than a decade of showcasing talent from around the world\, the festival expanded to Washington\, DC in 2021 \n Performers\n With an all-star lineup of burlesque royalty\, TINF 2026 will feature headlining performances from Top 50 Most Influential Burlesque Star La Reina (NO) and Silver Tusk Award Winner Red Rum (IL)—plus standout acts by Silver Kitsune (IL)\, Qu’in De La Noche (CA)\, and TNA Wrestling/TROMA star Monique Dupree (MD). The creative team includes Maki Roll (DMV)\, Kimono Jones (DMV)\, and Jove Galore (DC)\, all respected visionaries in performance art\, nightlife\, and immersive entertainment. \n Performances\n 9/11: Nerdvana: Retro Rewind kicks off the International Nerdlesque Festival with a sexy\, campy blast from the past.  Join us as we dive headfirst into beloved fandoms and comically cursed earworms of yesteryear. 9/12: The International Nerdlesque Festival Mega Showcase features a brand new lineup of national and international cabaret superstars\, bringing your favorite iconic characters and fandoms to life in ways you’ve never seen before. Nerdy\, cheeky\, and gloriously unhinged! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Workshops \n \n \n \n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 11AM (2 hour duration) Presenter: Qu’in De La Noche (She/Her)This class offers a unique opportunity for dancers to build confidence and deepen bodily awareness in ways you’ve never felt before. Led by real-life martial artist and Afro-Latin burlesque icon Qu’in de la Noche\, students will learn the fundamentals of weapons flow through breathwork\, intentional movement\, and drills designed to encourage interactive play. Together\, we move with purpose\, precision\, and power – with intentional movement designed to elevate your natural flow through simple exercises\, combat-inspired choreography\, and respect for the blade above all. Prerequisites: At least 1 year of consistent dance training or equivalent movement coordination. All are welcome. Attendees are encouraged to bring a prop weapon. No live weapons shall be used in this workshop. \n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 1:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: La Reina (They/Them) When you’re on the stage do you imagine that you’re a Warrior Royalty battling your way to the throne? Or a Fiendish Ghoul hunting your prey for just the taste of life that sustains you? Or do you imagine that you’re some winged creature building up the courage to fly\, to soar and to be free? Then this is the workshop for you. Building a world around your acts allows you to fully step into the storytelling of Burlesque. Storytelling is one of the many beautiful elements of the performing arts. It creates a space where not only does your audience feel transported into another plane of existence\, but gives you the brush to paint\, to remember\, to honor your experiences\, dreams and visions of and for your life that then becomes transformative moments every time you step on the stage. Storytelling can impact everything in a performance. From lighting direction to costuming to even how you welcome tease into the art\, showcasing your world is a much needed tool in the toolbelt of an artist. What we will cover: Building a Character Sheet of our Stage Persona Story Structure Movement Inspirations Themes & Motifs   Please bring a writing utensil\, notebook\, and comfortable clothes & shoes for light movement. \n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 11AM (1 hour duration) Presenter: Silver Kitsune (They/Them) Do you see more experienced performers and marvel at their custom costumes? Do you worry that you’ll never level up if you don’t have a degree in design or a sponsor to finance your stage life? Then this introductory class is the place to start! Join Silver Kitsune\, costumer\, fabricator\, and designer\, as they walk you through the methods they use to upcycle thrift store finds and customize store-bought basics. Everyone starts from square one\, but there is no reason you have to stay there! In this class\, you will learn the best techniques for sourcing on a tight budget\, what to look for to optimize your thrifting\, basic tailoring hacks to custom fit your costumes to your body\, how to design specifically for stage reveals\, and at what point it’s best to just buy it pre-made. Transform yourself from Cosplay Fledgling to Nerdlesque Star! \n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 12:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: RedRum (She/Her)A little bit PEEPshow\, a little bit FREAKshow…a little bit CREEPshow! Burlesque Performance Artist RedRum will demonstrate quick and creative uses of scar wax\, gelatin based FX productsand other means of achieving dimension with basic makeup tools. We will create one large scar to learn how to sculpt and manipulate wax and one face melt burn using the 3D Gel. Learn how to transition the edges and “dress” the wounds with blood gel and color to enhance the horrific effect! Materials are not required for participation in the workshop. Materials being used if you do want to play along: Ben Nye Scar and Nose WaxMehron SynWax Synthetic Modeling WaxMehron Makeup 3D Gel\, Blood Red and FleshMehron Spirit GumMehron Liquid LatexStipple SpongeMehron MakeupMakeup SpatulaFake BloodBen Nye color wheels with a variety of reds\, yellow and bluesSmall hot plate and small heat safe cup or container\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n PURCHASE FESTIVAL & WORKSHOP TICKETS\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thank you to our 2026-2027 Season Supporters! URL:https://www.danceplace.org/performances/dance-place-after-dark-spookshow-spectacular/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251003 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251005 DTSTAMP:20260817T141003 CREATED:20250715T162940Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250915T153918Z UID:43498-1759449600-1759622399@www.danceplace.org SUMMARY:Lionel Popkin DESCRIPTION:Image Description: A performer in a strappy costume\, heels and crown\, opens their wings in a strong\, empowering walk. The stage is washed in a red and orange glow. In the bottom right corner\, over a circular pink gradient\, reads the Dance Place logo in white lettering. Photo Credit: Tansura T. Photography. \n \n \n \n The International Nerdlesque Festival \n \n \n \n September 11–13\, 2026 The International Nerdlesque Festival (TINF) returns in 2026 for its most immersive and ambitious year yet\, bringing its signature blend of fandom\, rhinestones\, and glitter to the Nation’s Capital. Cosplay meets cabaret in this pop-culture and burlesque spectacular: DC’s “Comic Con in a Corset” lands September 11-12 at Dance Place. This two-night extravaganza invites audiences into a universe where the grown and sexy meet the geeky and fabulous. Each night features a different showcase celebrating popular culture across media\, set against a sultry\, intimate nightlife backdrop.  Plus exclusive workshops\, vending\, and community events led by our performers and festival partners!  \n \n \n \n \n \n About TNIF\n Performers\n Performances\n \n \n About TNIF\n Originally founded in 2014 in New York City\, the International Nerdlesque Festival was the first burlesque festival in the world to spotlight nerdlesque: a performance genre where pop culture\, fandom\, and striptease collide. From Star Wars tributes to anime-inspired acts\, this genre revels in the power of fantasy\, nostalgia\, and queer creativity. After more than a decade of showcasing talent from around the world\, the festival expanded to Washington\, DC in 2021 \n Performers\n With an all-star lineup of burlesque royalty\, TINF 2026 will feature headlining performances from Top 50 Most Influential Burlesque Star La Reina (NO) and Silver Tusk Award Winner Red Rum (IL)—plus standout acts by Silver Kitsune (IL)\, Qu’in De La Noche (CA)\, and TNA Wrestling/TROMA star Monique Dupree (MD). The creative team includes Maki Roll (DMV)\, Kimono Jones (DMV)\, and Jove Galore (DC)\, all respected visionaries in performance art\, nightlife\, and immersive entertainment. \n Performances\n 9/11: Nerdvana: Retro Rewind kicks off the International Nerdlesque Festival with a sexy\, campy blast from the past.  Join us as we dive headfirst into beloved fandoms and comically cursed earworms of yesteryear. 9/12: The International Nerdlesque Festival Mega Showcase features a brand new lineup of national and international cabaret superstars\, bringing your favorite iconic characters and fandoms to life in ways you’ve never seen before. Nerdy\, cheeky\, and gloriously unhinged! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Workshops \n \n \n \n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 11AM (2 hour duration) Presenter: Qu’in De La Noche (She/Her)This class offers a unique opportunity for dancers to build confidence and deepen bodily awareness in ways you’ve never felt before. Led by real-life martial artist and Afro-Latin burlesque icon Qu’in de la Noche\, students will learn the fundamentals of weapons flow through breathwork\, intentional movement\, and drills designed to encourage interactive play. Together\, we move with purpose\, precision\, and power – with intentional movement designed to elevate your natural flow through simple exercises\, combat-inspired choreography\, and respect for the blade above all. Prerequisites: At least 1 year of consistent dance training or equivalent movement coordination. All are welcome. Attendees are encouraged to bring a prop weapon. No live weapons shall be used in this workshop. \n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 1:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: La Reina (They/Them) When you’re on the stage do you imagine that you’re a Warrior Royalty battling your way to the throne? Or a Fiendish Ghoul hunting your prey for just the taste of life that sustains you? Or do you imagine that you’re some winged creature building up the courage to fly\, to soar and to be free? Then this is the workshop for you. Building a world around your acts allows you to fully step into the storytelling of Burlesque. Storytelling is one of the many beautiful elements of the performing arts. It creates a space where not only does your audience feel transported into another plane of existence\, but gives you the brush to paint\, to remember\, to honor your experiences\, dreams and visions of and for your life that then becomes transformative moments every time you step on the stage. Storytelling can impact everything in a performance. From lighting direction to costuming to even how you welcome tease into the art\, showcasing your world is a much needed tool in the toolbelt of an artist. What we will cover: Building a Character Sheet of our Stage Persona Story Structure Movement Inspirations Themes & Motifs   Please bring a writing utensil\, notebook\, and comfortable clothes & shoes for light movement. \n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 11AM (1 hour duration) Presenter: Silver Kitsune (They/Them) Do you see more experienced performers and marvel at their custom costumes? Do you worry that you’ll never level up if you don’t have a degree in design or a sponsor to finance your stage life? Then this introductory class is the place to start! Join Silver Kitsune\, costumer\, fabricator\, and designer\, as they walk you through the methods they use to upcycle thrift store finds and customize store-bought basics. Everyone starts from square one\, but there is no reason you have to stay there! In this class\, you will learn the best techniques for sourcing on a tight budget\, what to look for to optimize your thrifting\, basic tailoring hacks to custom fit your costumes to your body\, how to design specifically for stage reveals\, and at what point it’s best to just buy it pre-made. Transform yourself from Cosplay Fledgling to Nerdlesque Star! \n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 12:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: RedRum (She/Her)A little bit PEEPshow\, a little bit FREAKshow…a little bit CREEPshow! Burlesque Performance Artist RedRum will demonstrate quick and creative uses of scar wax\, gelatin based FX productsand other means of achieving dimension with basic makeup tools. We will create one large scar to learn how to sculpt and manipulate wax and one face melt burn using the 3D Gel. Learn how to transition the edges and “dress” the wounds with blood gel and color to enhance the horrific effect! Materials are not required for participation in the workshop. Materials being used if you do want to play along: Ben Nye Scar and Nose WaxMehron SynWax Synthetic Modeling WaxMehron Makeup 3D Gel\, Blood Red and FleshMehron Spirit GumMehron Liquid LatexStipple SpongeMehron MakeupMakeup SpatulaFake BloodBen Nye color wheels with a variety of reds\, yellow and bluesSmall hot plate and small heat safe cup or container\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n PURCHASE FESTIVAL & WORKSHOP TICKETS\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thank you to our 2026-2027 Season Supporters! URL:https://www.danceplace.org/performances/lionel-popkin-45/ LOCATION:Dance Place\, 3225 8th Street NE\, Washington\, DC\, 20017\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.danceplace.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Lionel-Popkin_angel-origgi-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251025 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251026 DTSTAMP:20260817T141003 CREATED:20250715T164637Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250904T192512Z UID:43509-1761350400-1761436799@www.danceplace.org SUMMARY:Family Spooky Disco DESCRIPTION:Image Description: A performer in a strappy costume\, heels and crown\, opens their wings in a strong\, empowering walk. The stage is washed in a red and orange glow. In the bottom right corner\, over a circular pink gradient\, reads the Dance Place logo in white lettering. Photo Credit: Tansura T. Photography. \n \n \n \n The International Nerdlesque Festival \n \n \n \n September 11–13\, 2026 The International Nerdlesque Festival (TINF) returns in 2026 for its most immersive and ambitious year yet\, bringing its signature blend of fandom\, rhinestones\, and glitter to the Nation’s Capital. Cosplay meets cabaret in this pop-culture and burlesque spectacular: DC’s “Comic Con in a Corset” lands September 11-12 at Dance Place. This two-night extravaganza invites audiences into a universe where the grown and sexy meet the geeky and fabulous. Each night features a different showcase celebrating popular culture across media\, set against a sultry\, intimate nightlife backdrop.  Plus exclusive workshops\, vending\, and community events led by our performers and festival partners!  \n \n \n \n \n \n About TNIF\n Performers\n Performances\n \n \n About TNIF\n Originally founded in 2014 in New York City\, the International Nerdlesque Festival was the first burlesque festival in the world to spotlight nerdlesque: a performance genre where pop culture\, fandom\, and striptease collide. From Star Wars tributes to anime-inspired acts\, this genre revels in the power of fantasy\, nostalgia\, and queer creativity. After more than a decade of showcasing talent from around the world\, the festival expanded to Washington\, DC in 2021 \n Performers\n With an all-star lineup of burlesque royalty\, TINF 2026 will feature headlining performances from Top 50 Most Influential Burlesque Star La Reina (NO) and Silver Tusk Award Winner Red Rum (IL)—plus standout acts by Silver Kitsune (IL)\, Qu’in De La Noche (CA)\, and TNA Wrestling/TROMA star Monique Dupree (MD). The creative team includes Maki Roll (DMV)\, Kimono Jones (DMV)\, and Jove Galore (DC)\, all respected visionaries in performance art\, nightlife\, and immersive entertainment. \n Performances\n 9/11: Nerdvana: Retro Rewind kicks off the International Nerdlesque Festival with a sexy\, campy blast from the past.  Join us as we dive headfirst into beloved fandoms and comically cursed earworms of yesteryear. 9/12: The International Nerdlesque Festival Mega Showcase features a brand new lineup of national and international cabaret superstars\, bringing your favorite iconic characters and fandoms to life in ways you’ve never seen before. Nerdy\, cheeky\, and gloriously unhinged! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Workshops \n \n \n \n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 11AM (2 hour duration) Presenter: Qu’in De La Noche (She/Her)This class offers a unique opportunity for dancers to build confidence and deepen bodily awareness in ways you’ve never felt before. Led by real-life martial artist and Afro-Latin burlesque icon Qu’in de la Noche\, students will learn the fundamentals of weapons flow through breathwork\, intentional movement\, and drills designed to encourage interactive play. Together\, we move with purpose\, precision\, and power – with intentional movement designed to elevate your natural flow through simple exercises\, combat-inspired choreography\, and respect for the blade above all. Prerequisites: At least 1 year of consistent dance training or equivalent movement coordination. All are welcome. Attendees are encouraged to bring a prop weapon. No live weapons shall be used in this workshop. \n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 1:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: La Reina (They/Them) When you’re on the stage do you imagine that you’re a Warrior Royalty battling your way to the throne? Or a Fiendish Ghoul hunting your prey for just the taste of life that sustains you? Or do you imagine that you’re some winged creature building up the courage to fly\, to soar and to be free? Then this is the workshop for you. Building a world around your acts allows you to fully step into the storytelling of Burlesque. Storytelling is one of the many beautiful elements of the performing arts. It creates a space where not only does your audience feel transported into another plane of existence\, but gives you the brush to paint\, to remember\, to honor your experiences\, dreams and visions of and for your life that then becomes transformative moments every time you step on the stage. Storytelling can impact everything in a performance. From lighting direction to costuming to even how you welcome tease into the art\, showcasing your world is a much needed tool in the toolbelt of an artist. What we will cover: Building a Character Sheet of our Stage Persona Story Structure Movement Inspirations Themes & Motifs   Please bring a writing utensil\, notebook\, and comfortable clothes & shoes for light movement. \n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 11AM (1 hour duration) Presenter: Silver Kitsune (They/Them) Do you see more experienced performers and marvel at their custom costumes? Do you worry that you’ll never level up if you don’t have a degree in design or a sponsor to finance your stage life? Then this introductory class is the place to start! Join Silver Kitsune\, costumer\, fabricator\, and designer\, as they walk you through the methods they use to upcycle thrift store finds and customize store-bought basics. Everyone starts from square one\, but there is no reason you have to stay there! In this class\, you will learn the best techniques for sourcing on a tight budget\, what to look for to optimize your thrifting\, basic tailoring hacks to custom fit your costumes to your body\, how to design specifically for stage reveals\, and at what point it’s best to just buy it pre-made. Transform yourself from Cosplay Fledgling to Nerdlesque Star! \n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 12:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: RedRum (She/Her)A little bit PEEPshow\, a little bit FREAKshow…a little bit CREEPshow! Burlesque Performance Artist RedRum will demonstrate quick and creative uses of scar wax\, gelatin based FX productsand other means of achieving dimension with basic makeup tools. We will create one large scar to learn how to sculpt and manipulate wax and one face melt burn using the 3D Gel. Learn how to transition the edges and “dress” the wounds with blood gel and color to enhance the horrific effect! Materials are not required for participation in the workshop. Materials being used if you do want to play along: Ben Nye Scar and Nose WaxMehron SynWax Synthetic Modeling WaxMehron Makeup 3D Gel\, Blood Red and FleshMehron Spirit GumMehron Liquid LatexStipple SpongeMehron MakeupMakeup SpatulaFake BloodBen Nye color wheels with a variety of reds\, yellow and bluesSmall hot plate and small heat safe cup or container\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n PURCHASE FESTIVAL & WORKSHOP TICKETS\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thank you to our 2026-2027 Season Supporters! URL:https://www.danceplace.org/performances/family-spooky-disco-45/ LOCATION:Dance Place\, 3225 8th Street NE\, Washington\, DC\, 20017\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.danceplace.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Family-Spooky-Disco-photo-credit_-David-Dowling-2.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251031 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251102 DTSTAMP:20260817T141003 CREATED:20250714T194658Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250716T193154Z UID:43482-1761868800-1762041599@www.danceplace.org SUMMARY:Dance Place AFTER DARK DESCRIPTION:Image Description: A performer in a strappy costume\, heels and crown\, opens their wings in a strong\, empowering walk. The stage is washed in a red and orange glow. In the bottom right corner\, over a circular pink gradient\, reads the Dance Place logo in white lettering. Photo Credit: Tansura T. Photography. \n \n \n \n The International Nerdlesque Festival \n \n \n \n September 11–13\, 2026 The International Nerdlesque Festival (TINF) returns in 2026 for its most immersive and ambitious year yet\, bringing its signature blend of fandom\, rhinestones\, and glitter to the Nation’s Capital. Cosplay meets cabaret in this pop-culture and burlesque spectacular: DC’s “Comic Con in a Corset” lands September 11-12 at Dance Place. This two-night extravaganza invites audiences into a universe where the grown and sexy meet the geeky and fabulous. Each night features a different showcase celebrating popular culture across media\, set against a sultry\, intimate nightlife backdrop.  Plus exclusive workshops\, vending\, and community events led by our performers and festival partners!  \n \n \n \n \n \n About TNIF\n Performers\n Performances\n \n \n About TNIF\n Originally founded in 2014 in New York City\, the International Nerdlesque Festival was the first burlesque festival in the world to spotlight nerdlesque: a performance genre where pop culture\, fandom\, and striptease collide. From Star Wars tributes to anime-inspired acts\, this genre revels in the power of fantasy\, nostalgia\, and queer creativity. After more than a decade of showcasing talent from around the world\, the festival expanded to Washington\, DC in 2021 \n Performers\n With an all-star lineup of burlesque royalty\, TINF 2026 will feature headlining performances from Top 50 Most Influential Burlesque Star La Reina (NO) and Silver Tusk Award Winner Red Rum (IL)—plus standout acts by Silver Kitsune (IL)\, Qu’in De La Noche (CA)\, and TNA Wrestling/TROMA star Monique Dupree (MD). The creative team includes Maki Roll (DMV)\, Kimono Jones (DMV)\, and Jove Galore (DC)\, all respected visionaries in performance art\, nightlife\, and immersive entertainment. \n Performances\n 9/11: Nerdvana: Retro Rewind kicks off the International Nerdlesque Festival with a sexy\, campy blast from the past.  Join us as we dive headfirst into beloved fandoms and comically cursed earworms of yesteryear. 9/12: The International Nerdlesque Festival Mega Showcase features a brand new lineup of national and international cabaret superstars\, bringing your favorite iconic characters and fandoms to life in ways you’ve never seen before. Nerdy\, cheeky\, and gloriously unhinged! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Workshops \n \n \n \n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 11AM (2 hour duration) Presenter: Qu’in De La Noche (She/Her)This class offers a unique opportunity for dancers to build confidence and deepen bodily awareness in ways you’ve never felt before. Led by real-life martial artist and Afro-Latin burlesque icon Qu’in de la Noche\, students will learn the fundamentals of weapons flow through breathwork\, intentional movement\, and drills designed to encourage interactive play. Together\, we move with purpose\, precision\, and power – with intentional movement designed to elevate your natural flow through simple exercises\, combat-inspired choreography\, and respect for the blade above all. Prerequisites: At least 1 year of consistent dance training or equivalent movement coordination. All are welcome. Attendees are encouraged to bring a prop weapon. No live weapons shall be used in this workshop. \n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 1:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: La Reina (They/Them) When you’re on the stage do you imagine that you’re a Warrior Royalty battling your way to the throne? Or a Fiendish Ghoul hunting your prey for just the taste of life that sustains you? Or do you imagine that you’re some winged creature building up the courage to fly\, to soar and to be free? Then this is the workshop for you. Building a world around your acts allows you to fully step into the storytelling of Burlesque. Storytelling is one of the many beautiful elements of the performing arts. It creates a space where not only does your audience feel transported into another plane of existence\, but gives you the brush to paint\, to remember\, to honor your experiences\, dreams and visions of and for your life that then becomes transformative moments every time you step on the stage. Storytelling can impact everything in a performance. From lighting direction to costuming to even how you welcome tease into the art\, showcasing your world is a much needed tool in the toolbelt of an artist. What we will cover: Building a Character Sheet of our Stage Persona Story Structure Movement Inspirations Themes & Motifs   Please bring a writing utensil\, notebook\, and comfortable clothes & shoes for light movement. \n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 11AM (1 hour duration) Presenter: Silver Kitsune (They/Them) Do you see more experienced performers and marvel at their custom costumes? Do you worry that you’ll never level up if you don’t have a degree in design or a sponsor to finance your stage life? Then this introductory class is the place to start! Join Silver Kitsune\, costumer\, fabricator\, and designer\, as they walk you through the methods they use to upcycle thrift store finds and customize store-bought basics. Everyone starts from square one\, but there is no reason you have to stay there! In this class\, you will learn the best techniques for sourcing on a tight budget\, what to look for to optimize your thrifting\, basic tailoring hacks to custom fit your costumes to your body\, how to design specifically for stage reveals\, and at what point it’s best to just buy it pre-made. Transform yourself from Cosplay Fledgling to Nerdlesque Star! \n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 12:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: RedRum (She/Her)A little bit PEEPshow\, a little bit FREAKshow…a little bit CREEPshow! Burlesque Performance Artist RedRum will demonstrate quick and creative uses of scar wax\, gelatin based FX productsand other means of achieving dimension with basic makeup tools. We will create one large scar to learn how to sculpt and manipulate wax and one face melt burn using the 3D Gel. Learn how to transition the edges and “dress” the wounds with blood gel and color to enhance the horrific effect! Materials are not required for participation in the workshop. Materials being used if you do want to play along: Ben Nye Scar and Nose WaxMehron SynWax Synthetic Modeling WaxMehron Makeup 3D Gel\, Blood Red and FleshMehron Spirit GumMehron Liquid LatexStipple SpongeMehron MakeupMakeup SpatulaFake BloodBen Nye color wheels with a variety of reds\, yellow and bluesSmall hot plate and small heat safe cup or container\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n PURCHASE FESTIVAL & WORKSHOP TICKETS\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thank you to our 2026-2027 Season Supporters! URL:https://www.danceplace.org/performances/after-dark-45/ LOCATION:Dance Place\, 3225 8th Street NE\, Washington\, DC\, 20017\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.danceplace.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/AFTER-DARK-Graphic.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251101 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251103 DTSTAMP:20260817T141003 CREATED:20250714T173354Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251017T193113Z UID:43385-1761955200-1762127999@www.danceplace.org SUMMARY:Dance Place Family Reunion DESCRIPTION:Image Description: A performer in a strappy costume\, heels and crown\, opens their wings in a strong\, empowering walk. The stage is washed in a red and orange glow. In the bottom right corner\, over a circular pink gradient\, reads the Dance Place logo in white lettering. Photo Credit: Tansura T. Photography. \n \n \n \n The International Nerdlesque Festival \n \n \n \n September 11–13\, 2026 The International Nerdlesque Festival (TINF) returns in 2026 for its most immersive and ambitious year yet\, bringing its signature blend of fandom\, rhinestones\, and glitter to the Nation’s Capital. Cosplay meets cabaret in this pop-culture and burlesque spectacular: DC’s “Comic Con in a Corset” lands September 11-12 at Dance Place. This two-night extravaganza invites audiences into a universe where the grown and sexy meet the geeky and fabulous. Each night features a different showcase celebrating popular culture across media\, set against a sultry\, intimate nightlife backdrop.  Plus exclusive workshops\, vending\, and community events led by our performers and festival partners!  \n \n \n \n \n \n About TNIF\n Performers\n Performances\n \n \n About TNIF\n Originally founded in 2014 in New York City\, the International Nerdlesque Festival was the first burlesque festival in the world to spotlight nerdlesque: a performance genre where pop culture\, fandom\, and striptease collide. From Star Wars tributes to anime-inspired acts\, this genre revels in the power of fantasy\, nostalgia\, and queer creativity. After more than a decade of showcasing talent from around the world\, the festival expanded to Washington\, DC in 2021 \n Performers\n With an all-star lineup of burlesque royalty\, TINF 2026 will feature headlining performances from Top 50 Most Influential Burlesque Star La Reina (NO) and Silver Tusk Award Winner Red Rum (IL)—plus standout acts by Silver Kitsune (IL)\, Qu’in De La Noche (CA)\, and TNA Wrestling/TROMA star Monique Dupree (MD). The creative team includes Maki Roll (DMV)\, Kimono Jones (DMV)\, and Jove Galore (DC)\, all respected visionaries in performance art\, nightlife\, and immersive entertainment. \n Performances\n 9/11: Nerdvana: Retro Rewind kicks off the International Nerdlesque Festival with a sexy\, campy blast from the past.  Join us as we dive headfirst into beloved fandoms and comically cursed earworms of yesteryear. 9/12: The International Nerdlesque Festival Mega Showcase features a brand new lineup of national and international cabaret superstars\, bringing your favorite iconic characters and fandoms to life in ways you’ve never seen before. Nerdy\, cheeky\, and gloriously unhinged! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Workshops \n \n \n \n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 11AM (2 hour duration) Presenter: Qu’in De La Noche (She/Her)This class offers a unique opportunity for dancers to build confidence and deepen bodily awareness in ways you’ve never felt before. Led by real-life martial artist and Afro-Latin burlesque icon Qu’in de la Noche\, students will learn the fundamentals of weapons flow through breathwork\, intentional movement\, and drills designed to encourage interactive play. Together\, we move with purpose\, precision\, and power – with intentional movement designed to elevate your natural flow through simple exercises\, combat-inspired choreography\, and respect for the blade above all. Prerequisites: At least 1 year of consistent dance training or equivalent movement coordination. All are welcome. Attendees are encouraged to bring a prop weapon. No live weapons shall be used in this workshop. \n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 1:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: La Reina (They/Them) When you’re on the stage do you imagine that you’re a Warrior Royalty battling your way to the throne? Or a Fiendish Ghoul hunting your prey for just the taste of life that sustains you? Or do you imagine that you’re some winged creature building up the courage to fly\, to soar and to be free? Then this is the workshop for you. Building a world around your acts allows you to fully step into the storytelling of Burlesque. Storytelling is one of the many beautiful elements of the performing arts. It creates a space where not only does your audience feel transported into another plane of existence\, but gives you the brush to paint\, to remember\, to honor your experiences\, dreams and visions of and for your life that then becomes transformative moments every time you step on the stage. Storytelling can impact everything in a performance. From lighting direction to costuming to even how you welcome tease into the art\, showcasing your world is a much needed tool in the toolbelt of an artist. What we will cover: Building a Character Sheet of our Stage Persona Story Structure Movement Inspirations Themes & Motifs   Please bring a writing utensil\, notebook\, and comfortable clothes & shoes for light movement. \n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 11AM (1 hour duration) Presenter: Silver Kitsune (They/Them) Do you see more experienced performers and marvel at their custom costumes? Do you worry that you’ll never level up if you don’t have a degree in design or a sponsor to finance your stage life? Then this introductory class is the place to start! Join Silver Kitsune\, costumer\, fabricator\, and designer\, as they walk you through the methods they use to upcycle thrift store finds and customize store-bought basics. Everyone starts from square one\, but there is no reason you have to stay there! In this class\, you will learn the best techniques for sourcing on a tight budget\, what to look for to optimize your thrifting\, basic tailoring hacks to custom fit your costumes to your body\, how to design specifically for stage reveals\, and at what point it’s best to just buy it pre-made. Transform yourself from Cosplay Fledgling to Nerdlesque Star! \n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 12:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: RedRum (She/Her)A little bit PEEPshow\, a little bit FREAKshow…a little bit CREEPshow! Burlesque Performance Artist RedRum will demonstrate quick and creative uses of scar wax\, gelatin based FX productsand other means of achieving dimension with basic makeup tools. We will create one large scar to learn how to sculpt and manipulate wax and one face melt burn using the 3D Gel. Learn how to transition the edges and “dress” the wounds with blood gel and color to enhance the horrific effect! Materials are not required for participation in the workshop. Materials being used if you do want to play along: Ben Nye Scar and Nose WaxMehron SynWax Synthetic Modeling WaxMehron Makeup 3D Gel\, Blood Red and FleshMehron Spirit GumMehron Liquid LatexStipple SpongeMehron MakeupMakeup SpatulaFake BloodBen Nye color wheels with a variety of reds\, yellow and bluesSmall hot plate and small heat safe cup or container\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n PURCHASE FESTIVAL & WORKSHOP TICKETS\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thank you to our 2026-2027 Season Supporters! URL:https://www.danceplace.org/performances/carla-creative-family-reunion-45/ LOCATION:Dance Place\, 3225 8th Street NE\, Washington\, DC\, 20017\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.danceplace.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Carla-Creative-Inc-Dance-Place-Family-Reunion_Photo-Courtesy-of-the-Artist-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251114 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251116 DTSTAMP:20260817T141003 CREATED:20250716T213747Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251113T140420Z UID:43907-1763078400-1763251199@www.danceplace.org SUMMARY:The Creative Space DESCRIPTION:Image Description: A performer in a strappy costume\, heels and crown\, opens their wings in a strong\, empowering walk. The stage is washed in a red and orange glow. In the bottom right corner\, over a circular pink gradient\, reads the Dance Place logo in white lettering. Photo Credit: Tansura T. Photography. \n \n \n \n The International Nerdlesque Festival \n \n \n \n September 11–13\, 2026 The International Nerdlesque Festival (TINF) returns in 2026 for its most immersive and ambitious year yet\, bringing its signature blend of fandom\, rhinestones\, and glitter to the Nation’s Capital. Cosplay meets cabaret in this pop-culture and burlesque spectacular: DC’s “Comic Con in a Corset” lands September 11-12 at Dance Place. This two-night extravaganza invites audiences into a universe where the grown and sexy meet the geeky and fabulous. Each night features a different showcase celebrating popular culture across media\, set against a sultry\, intimate nightlife backdrop.  Plus exclusive workshops\, vending\, and community events led by our performers and festival partners!  \n \n \n \n \n \n About TNIF\n Performers\n Performances\n \n \n About TNIF\n Originally founded in 2014 in New York City\, the International Nerdlesque Festival was the first burlesque festival in the world to spotlight nerdlesque: a performance genre where pop culture\, fandom\, and striptease collide. From Star Wars tributes to anime-inspired acts\, this genre revels in the power of fantasy\, nostalgia\, and queer creativity. After more than a decade of showcasing talent from around the world\, the festival expanded to Washington\, DC in 2021 \n Performers\n With an all-star lineup of burlesque royalty\, TINF 2026 will feature headlining performances from Top 50 Most Influential Burlesque Star La Reina (NO) and Silver Tusk Award Winner Red Rum (IL)—plus standout acts by Silver Kitsune (IL)\, Qu’in De La Noche (CA)\, and TNA Wrestling/TROMA star Monique Dupree (MD). The creative team includes Maki Roll (DMV)\, Kimono Jones (DMV)\, and Jove Galore (DC)\, all respected visionaries in performance art\, nightlife\, and immersive entertainment. \n Performances\n 9/11: Nerdvana: Retro Rewind kicks off the International Nerdlesque Festival with a sexy\, campy blast from the past.  Join us as we dive headfirst into beloved fandoms and comically cursed earworms of yesteryear. 9/12: The International Nerdlesque Festival Mega Showcase features a brand new lineup of national and international cabaret superstars\, bringing your favorite iconic characters and fandoms to life in ways you’ve never seen before. Nerdy\, cheeky\, and gloriously unhinged! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Workshops \n \n \n \n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 11AM (2 hour duration) Presenter: Qu’in De La Noche (She/Her)This class offers a unique opportunity for dancers to build confidence and deepen bodily awareness in ways you’ve never felt before. Led by real-life martial artist and Afro-Latin burlesque icon Qu’in de la Noche\, students will learn the fundamentals of weapons flow through breathwork\, intentional movement\, and drills designed to encourage interactive play. Together\, we move with purpose\, precision\, and power – with intentional movement designed to elevate your natural flow through simple exercises\, combat-inspired choreography\, and respect for the blade above all. Prerequisites: At least 1 year of consistent dance training or equivalent movement coordination. All are welcome. Attendees are encouraged to bring a prop weapon. No live weapons shall be used in this workshop. \n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 1:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: La Reina (They/Them) When you’re on the stage do you imagine that you’re a Warrior Royalty battling your way to the throne? Or a Fiendish Ghoul hunting your prey for just the taste of life that sustains you? Or do you imagine that you’re some winged creature building up the courage to fly\, to soar and to be free? Then this is the workshop for you. Building a world around your acts allows you to fully step into the storytelling of Burlesque. Storytelling is one of the many beautiful elements of the performing arts. It creates a space where not only does your audience feel transported into another plane of existence\, but gives you the brush to paint\, to remember\, to honor your experiences\, dreams and visions of and for your life that then becomes transformative moments every time you step on the stage. Storytelling can impact everything in a performance. From lighting direction to costuming to even how you welcome tease into the art\, showcasing your world is a much needed tool in the toolbelt of an artist. What we will cover: Building a Character Sheet of our Stage Persona Story Structure Movement Inspirations Themes & Motifs   Please bring a writing utensil\, notebook\, and comfortable clothes & shoes for light movement. \n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 11AM (1 hour duration) Presenter: Silver Kitsune (They/Them) Do you see more experienced performers and marvel at their custom costumes? Do you worry that you’ll never level up if you don’t have a degree in design or a sponsor to finance your stage life? Then this introductory class is the place to start! Join Silver Kitsune\, costumer\, fabricator\, and designer\, as they walk you through the methods they use to upcycle thrift store finds and customize store-bought basics. Everyone starts from square one\, but there is no reason you have to stay there! In this class\, you will learn the best techniques for sourcing on a tight budget\, what to look for to optimize your thrifting\, basic tailoring hacks to custom fit your costumes to your body\, how to design specifically for stage reveals\, and at what point it’s best to just buy it pre-made. Transform yourself from Cosplay Fledgling to Nerdlesque Star! \n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 12:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: RedRum (She/Her)A little bit PEEPshow\, a little bit FREAKshow…a little bit CREEPshow! Burlesque Performance Artist RedRum will demonstrate quick and creative uses of scar wax\, gelatin based FX productsand other means of achieving dimension with basic makeup tools. We will create one large scar to learn how to sculpt and manipulate wax and one face melt burn using the 3D Gel. Learn how to transition the edges and “dress” the wounds with blood gel and color to enhance the horrific effect! Materials are not required for participation in the workshop. Materials being used if you do want to play along: Ben Nye Scar and Nose WaxMehron SynWax Synthetic Modeling WaxMehron Makeup 3D Gel\, Blood Red and FleshMehron Spirit GumMehron Liquid LatexStipple SpongeMehron MakeupMakeup SpatulaFake BloodBen Nye color wheels with a variety of reds\, yellow and bluesSmall hot plate and small heat safe cup or container\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n PURCHASE FESTIVAL & WORKSHOP TICKETS\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thank you to our 2026-2027 Season Supporters! URL:https://www.danceplace.org/performances/the-creative-space-45/ LOCATION:Dance Place\, 3225 8th Street NE\, Washington\, DC\, 20017\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.danceplace.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/The-Creative-Space_Logo-provided-by-the-Artist-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251121 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251123 DTSTAMP:20260817T141003 CREATED:20250714T175217Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251120T210711Z UID:43395-1763683200-1763855999@www.danceplace.org SUMMARY:Kimberly Bartosik/daela DESCRIPTION:Image Description: A performer in a strappy costume\, heels and crown\, opens their wings in a strong\, empowering walk. The stage is washed in a red and orange glow. In the bottom right corner\, over a circular pink gradient\, reads the Dance Place logo in white lettering. Photo Credit: Tansura T. Photography. \n \n \n \n The International Nerdlesque Festival \n \n \n \n September 11–13\, 2026 The International Nerdlesque Festival (TINF) returns in 2026 for its most immersive and ambitious year yet\, bringing its signature blend of fandom\, rhinestones\, and glitter to the Nation’s Capital. Cosplay meets cabaret in this pop-culture and burlesque spectacular: DC’s “Comic Con in a Corset” lands September 11-12 at Dance Place. This two-night extravaganza invites audiences into a universe where the grown and sexy meet the geeky and fabulous. Each night features a different showcase celebrating popular culture across media\, set against a sultry\, intimate nightlife backdrop.  Plus exclusive workshops\, vending\, and community events led by our performers and festival partners!  \n \n \n \n \n \n About TNIF\n Performers\n Performances\n \n \n About TNIF\n Originally founded in 2014 in New York City\, the International Nerdlesque Festival was the first burlesque festival in the world to spotlight nerdlesque: a performance genre where pop culture\, fandom\, and striptease collide. From Star Wars tributes to anime-inspired acts\, this genre revels in the power of fantasy\, nostalgia\, and queer creativity. After more than a decade of showcasing talent from around the world\, the festival expanded to Washington\, DC in 2021 \n Performers\n With an all-star lineup of burlesque royalty\, TINF 2026 will feature headlining performances from Top 50 Most Influential Burlesque Star La Reina (NO) and Silver Tusk Award Winner Red Rum (IL)—plus standout acts by Silver Kitsune (IL)\, Qu’in De La Noche (CA)\, and TNA Wrestling/TROMA star Monique Dupree (MD). The creative team includes Maki Roll (DMV)\, Kimono Jones (DMV)\, and Jove Galore (DC)\, all respected visionaries in performance art\, nightlife\, and immersive entertainment. \n Performances\n 9/11: Nerdvana: Retro Rewind kicks off the International Nerdlesque Festival with a sexy\, campy blast from the past.  Join us as we dive headfirst into beloved fandoms and comically cursed earworms of yesteryear. 9/12: The International Nerdlesque Festival Mega Showcase features a brand new lineup of national and international cabaret superstars\, bringing your favorite iconic characters and fandoms to life in ways you’ve never seen before. Nerdy\, cheeky\, and gloriously unhinged! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Workshops \n \n \n \n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 11AM (2 hour duration) Presenter: Qu’in De La Noche (She/Her)This class offers a unique opportunity for dancers to build confidence and deepen bodily awareness in ways you’ve never felt before. Led by real-life martial artist and Afro-Latin burlesque icon Qu’in de la Noche\, students will learn the fundamentals of weapons flow through breathwork\, intentional movement\, and drills designed to encourage interactive play. Together\, we move with purpose\, precision\, and power – with intentional movement designed to elevate your natural flow through simple exercises\, combat-inspired choreography\, and respect for the blade above all. Prerequisites: At least 1 year of consistent dance training or equivalent movement coordination. All are welcome. Attendees are encouraged to bring a prop weapon. No live weapons shall be used in this workshop. \n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 1:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: La Reina (They/Them) When you’re on the stage do you imagine that you’re a Warrior Royalty battling your way to the throne? Or a Fiendish Ghoul hunting your prey for just the taste of life that sustains you? Or do you imagine that you’re some winged creature building up the courage to fly\, to soar and to be free? Then this is the workshop for you. Building a world around your acts allows you to fully step into the storytelling of Burlesque. Storytelling is one of the many beautiful elements of the performing arts. It creates a space where not only does your audience feel transported into another plane of existence\, but gives you the brush to paint\, to remember\, to honor your experiences\, dreams and visions of and for your life that then becomes transformative moments every time you step on the stage. Storytelling can impact everything in a performance. From lighting direction to costuming to even how you welcome tease into the art\, showcasing your world is a much needed tool in the toolbelt of an artist. What we will cover: Building a Character Sheet of our Stage Persona Story Structure Movement Inspirations Themes & Motifs   Please bring a writing utensil\, notebook\, and comfortable clothes & shoes for light movement. \n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 11AM (1 hour duration) Presenter: Silver Kitsune (They/Them) Do you see more experienced performers and marvel at their custom costumes? Do you worry that you’ll never level up if you don’t have a degree in design or a sponsor to finance your stage life? Then this introductory class is the place to start! Join Silver Kitsune\, costumer\, fabricator\, and designer\, as they walk you through the methods they use to upcycle thrift store finds and customize store-bought basics. Everyone starts from square one\, but there is no reason you have to stay there! In this class\, you will learn the best techniques for sourcing on a tight budget\, what to look for to optimize your thrifting\, basic tailoring hacks to custom fit your costumes to your body\, how to design specifically for stage reveals\, and at what point it’s best to just buy it pre-made. Transform yourself from Cosplay Fledgling to Nerdlesque Star! \n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 12:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: RedRum (She/Her)A little bit PEEPshow\, a little bit FREAKshow…a little bit CREEPshow! Burlesque Performance Artist RedRum will demonstrate quick and creative uses of scar wax\, gelatin based FX productsand other means of achieving dimension with basic makeup tools. We will create one large scar to learn how to sculpt and manipulate wax and one face melt burn using the 3D Gel. Learn how to transition the edges and “dress” the wounds with blood gel and color to enhance the horrific effect! Materials are not required for participation in the workshop. Materials being used if you do want to play along: Ben Nye Scar and Nose WaxMehron SynWax Synthetic Modeling WaxMehron Makeup 3D Gel\, Blood Red and FleshMehron Spirit GumMehron Liquid LatexStipple SpongeMehron MakeupMakeup SpatulaFake BloodBen Nye color wheels with a variety of reds\, yellow and bluesSmall hot plate and small heat safe cup or container\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n PURCHASE FESTIVAL & WORKSHOP TICKETS\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thank you to our 2026-2027 Season Supporters! URL:https://www.danceplace.org/performances/kimberly-bartosik-daela-45/ LOCATION:Dance Place\, 3225 8th Street NE\, Washington\, DC\, 20017\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.danceplace.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Kimberly-Bartosik_daela_Photo-Credit_Olivia-Moon-Photography-2.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251205 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251207 DTSTAMP:20260817T141003 CREATED:20250715T224046Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251125T171634Z UID:43597-1764892800-1765065599@www.danceplace.org SUMMARY:Ananya Dance Theatre DESCRIPTION:Image Description: A performer in a strappy costume\, heels and crown\, opens their wings in a strong\, empowering walk. The stage is washed in a red and orange glow. In the bottom right corner\, over a circular pink gradient\, reads the Dance Place logo in white lettering. Photo Credit: Tansura T. Photography. \n \n \n \n The International Nerdlesque Festival \n \n \n \n September 11–13\, 2026 The International Nerdlesque Festival (TINF) returns in 2026 for its most immersive and ambitious year yet\, bringing its signature blend of fandom\, rhinestones\, and glitter to the Nation’s Capital. Cosplay meets cabaret in this pop-culture and burlesque spectacular: DC’s “Comic Con in a Corset” lands September 11-12 at Dance Place. This two-night extravaganza invites audiences into a universe where the grown and sexy meet the geeky and fabulous. Each night features a different showcase celebrating popular culture across media\, set against a sultry\, intimate nightlife backdrop.  Plus exclusive workshops\, vending\, and community events led by our performers and festival partners!  \n \n \n \n \n \n About TNIF\n Performers\n Performances\n \n \n About TNIF\n Originally founded in 2014 in New York City\, the International Nerdlesque Festival was the first burlesque festival in the world to spotlight nerdlesque: a performance genre where pop culture\, fandom\, and striptease collide. From Star Wars tributes to anime-inspired acts\, this genre revels in the power of fantasy\, nostalgia\, and queer creativity. After more than a decade of showcasing talent from around the world\, the festival expanded to Washington\, DC in 2021 \n Performers\n With an all-star lineup of burlesque royalty\, TINF 2026 will feature headlining performances from Top 50 Most Influential Burlesque Star La Reina (NO) and Silver Tusk Award Winner Red Rum (IL)—plus standout acts by Silver Kitsune (IL)\, Qu’in De La Noche (CA)\, and TNA Wrestling/TROMA star Monique Dupree (MD). The creative team includes Maki Roll (DMV)\, Kimono Jones (DMV)\, and Jove Galore (DC)\, all respected visionaries in performance art\, nightlife\, and immersive entertainment. \n Performances\n 9/11: Nerdvana: Retro Rewind kicks off the International Nerdlesque Festival with a sexy\, campy blast from the past.  Join us as we dive headfirst into beloved fandoms and comically cursed earworms of yesteryear. 9/12: The International Nerdlesque Festival Mega Showcase features a brand new lineup of national and international cabaret superstars\, bringing your favorite iconic characters and fandoms to life in ways you’ve never seen before. Nerdy\, cheeky\, and gloriously unhinged! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Workshops \n \n \n \n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 11AM (2 hour duration) Presenter: Qu’in De La Noche (She/Her)This class offers a unique opportunity for dancers to build confidence and deepen bodily awareness in ways you’ve never felt before. Led by real-life martial artist and Afro-Latin burlesque icon Qu’in de la Noche\, students will learn the fundamentals of weapons flow through breathwork\, intentional movement\, and drills designed to encourage interactive play. Together\, we move with purpose\, precision\, and power – with intentional movement designed to elevate your natural flow through simple exercises\, combat-inspired choreography\, and respect for the blade above all. Prerequisites: At least 1 year of consistent dance training or equivalent movement coordination. All are welcome. Attendees are encouraged to bring a prop weapon. No live weapons shall be used in this workshop. \n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 1:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: La Reina (They/Them) When you’re on the stage do you imagine that you’re a Warrior Royalty battling your way to the throne? Or a Fiendish Ghoul hunting your prey for just the taste of life that sustains you? Or do you imagine that you’re some winged creature building up the courage to fly\, to soar and to be free? Then this is the workshop for you. Building a world around your acts allows you to fully step into the storytelling of Burlesque. Storytelling is one of the many beautiful elements of the performing arts. It creates a space where not only does your audience feel transported into another plane of existence\, but gives you the brush to paint\, to remember\, to honor your experiences\, dreams and visions of and for your life that then becomes transformative moments every time you step on the stage. Storytelling can impact everything in a performance. From lighting direction to costuming to even how you welcome tease into the art\, showcasing your world is a much needed tool in the toolbelt of an artist. What we will cover: Building a Character Sheet of our Stage Persona Story Structure Movement Inspirations Themes & Motifs   Please bring a writing utensil\, notebook\, and comfortable clothes & shoes for light movement. \n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 11AM (1 hour duration) Presenter: Silver Kitsune (They/Them) Do you see more experienced performers and marvel at their custom costumes? Do you worry that you’ll never level up if you don’t have a degree in design or a sponsor to finance your stage life? Then this introductory class is the place to start! Join Silver Kitsune\, costumer\, fabricator\, and designer\, as they walk you through the methods they use to upcycle thrift store finds and customize store-bought basics. Everyone starts from square one\, but there is no reason you have to stay there! In this class\, you will learn the best techniques for sourcing on a tight budget\, what to look for to optimize your thrifting\, basic tailoring hacks to custom fit your costumes to your body\, how to design specifically for stage reveals\, and at what point it’s best to just buy it pre-made. Transform yourself from Cosplay Fledgling to Nerdlesque Star! \n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 12:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: RedRum (She/Her)A little bit PEEPshow\, a little bit FREAKshow…a little bit CREEPshow! Burlesque Performance Artist RedRum will demonstrate quick and creative uses of scar wax\, gelatin based FX productsand other means of achieving dimension with basic makeup tools. We will create one large scar to learn how to sculpt and manipulate wax and one face melt burn using the 3D Gel. Learn how to transition the edges and “dress” the wounds with blood gel and color to enhance the horrific effect! Materials are not required for participation in the workshop. Materials being used if you do want to play along: Ben Nye Scar and Nose WaxMehron SynWax Synthetic Modeling WaxMehron Makeup 3D Gel\, Blood Red and FleshMehron Spirit GumMehron Liquid LatexStipple SpongeMehron MakeupMakeup SpatulaFake BloodBen Nye color wheels with a variety of reds\, yellow and bluesSmall hot plate and small heat safe cup or container\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n PURCHASE FESTIVAL & WORKSHOP TICKETS\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thank you to our 2026-2027 Season Supporters! URL:https://www.danceplace.org/performances/anaya-dance-theatre-45/ LOCATION:Dance Place\, 3225 8th Street NE\, Washington\, DC\, 20017\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.danceplace.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Ananya-Dance-Theatre_Graphic-by-Galen-Higgins.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251212 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251215 DTSTAMP:20260817T141003 CREATED:20251021T133212Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260130T160539Z UID:44345-1765497600-1765756799@www.danceplace.org SUMMARY:Bambi Loves You! DESCRIPTION:Image Description: A performer in a strappy costume\, heels and crown\, opens their wings in a strong\, empowering walk. The stage is washed in a red and orange glow. In the bottom right corner\, over a circular pink gradient\, reads the Dance Place logo in white lettering. Photo Credit: Tansura T. Photography. \n \n \n \n The International Nerdlesque Festival \n \n \n \n September 11–13\, 2026 The International Nerdlesque Festival (TINF) returns in 2026 for its most immersive and ambitious year yet\, bringing its signature blend of fandom\, rhinestones\, and glitter to the Nation’s Capital. Cosplay meets cabaret in this pop-culture and burlesque spectacular: DC’s “Comic Con in a Corset” lands September 11-12 at Dance Place. This two-night extravaganza invites audiences into a universe where the grown and sexy meet the geeky and fabulous. Each night features a different showcase celebrating popular culture across media\, set against a sultry\, intimate nightlife backdrop.  Plus exclusive workshops\, vending\, and community events led by our performers and festival partners!  \n \n \n \n \n \n About TNIF\n Performers\n Performances\n \n \n About TNIF\n Originally founded in 2014 in New York City\, the International Nerdlesque Festival was the first burlesque festival in the world to spotlight nerdlesque: a performance genre where pop culture\, fandom\, and striptease collide. From Star Wars tributes to anime-inspired acts\, this genre revels in the power of fantasy\, nostalgia\, and queer creativity. After more than a decade of showcasing talent from around the world\, the festival expanded to Washington\, DC in 2021 \n Performers\n With an all-star lineup of burlesque royalty\, TINF 2026 will feature headlining performances from Top 50 Most Influential Burlesque Star La Reina (NO) and Silver Tusk Award Winner Red Rum (IL)—plus standout acts by Silver Kitsune (IL)\, Qu’in De La Noche (CA)\, and TNA Wrestling/TROMA star Monique Dupree (MD). The creative team includes Maki Roll (DMV)\, Kimono Jones (DMV)\, and Jove Galore (DC)\, all respected visionaries in performance art\, nightlife\, and immersive entertainment. \n Performances\n 9/11: Nerdvana: Retro Rewind kicks off the International Nerdlesque Festival with a sexy\, campy blast from the past.  Join us as we dive headfirst into beloved fandoms and comically cursed earworms of yesteryear. 9/12: The International Nerdlesque Festival Mega Showcase features a brand new lineup of national and international cabaret superstars\, bringing your favorite iconic characters and fandoms to life in ways you’ve never seen before. Nerdy\, cheeky\, and gloriously unhinged! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Workshops \n \n \n \n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 11AM (2 hour duration) Presenter: Qu’in De La Noche (She/Her)This class offers a unique opportunity for dancers to build confidence and deepen bodily awareness in ways you’ve never felt before. Led by real-life martial artist and Afro-Latin burlesque icon Qu’in de la Noche\, students will learn the fundamentals of weapons flow through breathwork\, intentional movement\, and drills designed to encourage interactive play. Together\, we move with purpose\, precision\, and power – with intentional movement designed to elevate your natural flow through simple exercises\, combat-inspired choreography\, and respect for the blade above all. Prerequisites: At least 1 year of consistent dance training or equivalent movement coordination. All are welcome. Attendees are encouraged to bring a prop weapon. No live weapons shall be used in this workshop. \n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 1:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: La Reina (They/Them) When you’re on the stage do you imagine that you’re a Warrior Royalty battling your way to the throne? Or a Fiendish Ghoul hunting your prey for just the taste of life that sustains you? Or do you imagine that you’re some winged creature building up the courage to fly\, to soar and to be free? Then this is the workshop for you. Building a world around your acts allows you to fully step into the storytelling of Burlesque. Storytelling is one of the many beautiful elements of the performing arts. It creates a space where not only does your audience feel transported into another plane of existence\, but gives you the brush to paint\, to remember\, to honor your experiences\, dreams and visions of and for your life that then becomes transformative moments every time you step on the stage. Storytelling can impact everything in a performance. From lighting direction to costuming to even how you welcome tease into the art\, showcasing your world is a much needed tool in the toolbelt of an artist. What we will cover: Building a Character Sheet of our Stage Persona Story Structure Movement Inspirations Themes & Motifs   Please bring a writing utensil\, notebook\, and comfortable clothes & shoes for light movement. \n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 11AM (1 hour duration) Presenter: Silver Kitsune (They/Them) Do you see more experienced performers and marvel at their custom costumes? Do you worry that you’ll never level up if you don’t have a degree in design or a sponsor to finance your stage life? Then this introductory class is the place to start! Join Silver Kitsune\, costumer\, fabricator\, and designer\, as they walk you through the methods they use to upcycle thrift store finds and customize store-bought basics. Everyone starts from square one\, but there is no reason you have to stay there! In this class\, you will learn the best techniques for sourcing on a tight budget\, what to look for to optimize your thrifting\, basic tailoring hacks to custom fit your costumes to your body\, how to design specifically for stage reveals\, and at what point it’s best to just buy it pre-made. Transform yourself from Cosplay Fledgling to Nerdlesque Star! \n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 12:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: RedRum (She/Her)A little bit PEEPshow\, a little bit FREAKshow…a little bit CREEPshow! Burlesque Performance Artist RedRum will demonstrate quick and creative uses of scar wax\, gelatin based FX productsand other means of achieving dimension with basic makeup tools. We will create one large scar to learn how to sculpt and manipulate wax and one face melt burn using the 3D Gel. Learn how to transition the edges and “dress” the wounds with blood gel and color to enhance the horrific effect! Materials are not required for participation in the workshop. Materials being used if you do want to play along: Ben Nye Scar and Nose WaxMehron SynWax Synthetic Modeling WaxMehron Makeup 3D Gel\, Blood Red and FleshMehron Spirit GumMehron Liquid LatexStipple SpongeMehron MakeupMakeup SpatulaFake BloodBen Nye color wheels with a variety of reds\, yellow and bluesSmall hot plate and small heat safe cup or container\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n PURCHASE FESTIVAL & WORKSHOP TICKETS\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thank you to our 2026-2027 Season Supporters! URL:https://www.danceplace.org/performances/bambi-45/ LOCATION:Dance Place\, 3225 8th Street NE\, Washington\, DC\, 20017\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.danceplace.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/bambi-2.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260117 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260119 DTSTAMP:20260817T141003 CREATED:20250714T180710Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251218T185259Z UID:43410-1768608000-1768780799@www.danceplace.org SUMMARY:KanKouran West African Dance Company DESCRIPTION:Image Description: A performer in a strappy costume\, heels and crown\, opens their wings in a strong\, empowering walk. The stage is washed in a red and orange glow. In the bottom right corner\, over a circular pink gradient\, reads the Dance Place logo in white lettering. Photo Credit: Tansura T. Photography. \n \n \n \n The International Nerdlesque Festival \n \n \n \n September 11–13\, 2026 The International Nerdlesque Festival (TINF) returns in 2026 for its most immersive and ambitious year yet\, bringing its signature blend of fandom\, rhinestones\, and glitter to the Nation’s Capital. Cosplay meets cabaret in this pop-culture and burlesque spectacular: DC’s “Comic Con in a Corset” lands September 11-12 at Dance Place. This two-night extravaganza invites audiences into a universe where the grown and sexy meet the geeky and fabulous. Each night features a different showcase celebrating popular culture across media\, set against a sultry\, intimate nightlife backdrop.  Plus exclusive workshops\, vending\, and community events led by our performers and festival partners!  \n \n \n \n \n \n About TNIF\n Performers\n Performances\n \n \n About TNIF\n Originally founded in 2014 in New York City\, the International Nerdlesque Festival was the first burlesque festival in the world to spotlight nerdlesque: a performance genre where pop culture\, fandom\, and striptease collide. From Star Wars tributes to anime-inspired acts\, this genre revels in the power of fantasy\, nostalgia\, and queer creativity. After more than a decade of showcasing talent from around the world\, the festival expanded to Washington\, DC in 2021 \n Performers\n With an all-star lineup of burlesque royalty\, TINF 2026 will feature headlining performances from Top 50 Most Influential Burlesque Star La Reina (NO) and Silver Tusk Award Winner Red Rum (IL)—plus standout acts by Silver Kitsune (IL)\, Qu’in De La Noche (CA)\, and TNA Wrestling/TROMA star Monique Dupree (MD). The creative team includes Maki Roll (DMV)\, Kimono Jones (DMV)\, and Jove Galore (DC)\, all respected visionaries in performance art\, nightlife\, and immersive entertainment. \n Performances\n 9/11: Nerdvana: Retro Rewind kicks off the International Nerdlesque Festival with a sexy\, campy blast from the past.  Join us as we dive headfirst into beloved fandoms and comically cursed earworms of yesteryear. 9/12: The International Nerdlesque Festival Mega Showcase features a brand new lineup of national and international cabaret superstars\, bringing your favorite iconic characters and fandoms to life in ways you’ve never seen before. Nerdy\, cheeky\, and gloriously unhinged! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Workshops \n \n \n \n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 11AM (2 hour duration) Presenter: Qu’in De La Noche (She/Her)This class offers a unique opportunity for dancers to build confidence and deepen bodily awareness in ways you’ve never felt before. Led by real-life martial artist and Afro-Latin burlesque icon Qu’in de la Noche\, students will learn the fundamentals of weapons flow through breathwork\, intentional movement\, and drills designed to encourage interactive play. Together\, we move with purpose\, precision\, and power – with intentional movement designed to elevate your natural flow through simple exercises\, combat-inspired choreography\, and respect for the blade above all. Prerequisites: At least 1 year of consistent dance training or equivalent movement coordination. All are welcome. Attendees are encouraged to bring a prop weapon. No live weapons shall be used in this workshop. \n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 1:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: La Reina (They/Them) When you’re on the stage do you imagine that you’re a Warrior Royalty battling your way to the throne? Or a Fiendish Ghoul hunting your prey for just the taste of life that sustains you? Or do you imagine that you’re some winged creature building up the courage to fly\, to soar and to be free? Then this is the workshop for you. Building a world around your acts allows you to fully step into the storytelling of Burlesque. Storytelling is one of the many beautiful elements of the performing arts. It creates a space where not only does your audience feel transported into another plane of existence\, but gives you the brush to paint\, to remember\, to honor your experiences\, dreams and visions of and for your life that then becomes transformative moments every time you step on the stage. Storytelling can impact everything in a performance. From lighting direction to costuming to even how you welcome tease into the art\, showcasing your world is a much needed tool in the toolbelt of an artist. What we will cover: Building a Character Sheet of our Stage Persona Story Structure Movement Inspirations Themes & Motifs   Please bring a writing utensil\, notebook\, and comfortable clothes & shoes for light movement. \n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 11AM (1 hour duration) Presenter: Silver Kitsune (They/Them) Do you see more experienced performers and marvel at their custom costumes? Do you worry that you’ll never level up if you don’t have a degree in design or a sponsor to finance your stage life? Then this introductory class is the place to start! Join Silver Kitsune\, costumer\, fabricator\, and designer\, as they walk you through the methods they use to upcycle thrift store finds and customize store-bought basics. Everyone starts from square one\, but there is no reason you have to stay there! In this class\, you will learn the best techniques for sourcing on a tight budget\, what to look for to optimize your thrifting\, basic tailoring hacks to custom fit your costumes to your body\, how to design specifically for stage reveals\, and at what point it’s best to just buy it pre-made. Transform yourself from Cosplay Fledgling to Nerdlesque Star! \n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 12:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: RedRum (She/Her)A little bit PEEPshow\, a little bit FREAKshow…a little bit CREEPshow! Burlesque Performance Artist RedRum will demonstrate quick and creative uses of scar wax\, gelatin based FX productsand other means of achieving dimension with basic makeup tools. We will create one large scar to learn how to sculpt and manipulate wax and one face melt burn using the 3D Gel. Learn how to transition the edges and “dress” the wounds with blood gel and color to enhance the horrific effect! Materials are not required for participation in the workshop. Materials being used if you do want to play along: Ben Nye Scar and Nose WaxMehron SynWax Synthetic Modeling WaxMehron Makeup 3D Gel\, Blood Red and FleshMehron Spirit GumMehron Liquid LatexStipple SpongeMehron MakeupMakeup SpatulaFake BloodBen Nye color wheels with a variety of reds\, yellow and bluesSmall hot plate and small heat safe cup or container\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n PURCHASE FESTIVAL & WORKSHOP TICKETS\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thank you to our 2026-2027 Season Supporters! URL:https://www.danceplace.org/performances/kanouran-west-african-dance-45/ LOCATION:Dance Place\, 3225 8th Street NE\, Washington\, DC\, 20017\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.danceplace.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/KanKouran-West-African-Dance-Company_Photo-Credit_-David-Dowling-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260206 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260208 DTSTAMP:20260817T141003 CREATED:20250714T182008Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260130T160642Z UID:43425-1770336000-1770508799@www.danceplace.org SUMMARY:BIGKID DANCE DESCRIPTION:Image Description: A performer in a strappy costume\, heels and crown\, opens their wings in a strong\, empowering walk. The stage is washed in a red and orange glow. In the bottom right corner\, over a circular pink gradient\, reads the Dance Place logo in white lettering. Photo Credit: Tansura T. Photography. \n \n \n \n The International Nerdlesque Festival \n \n \n \n September 11–13\, 2026 The International Nerdlesque Festival (TINF) returns in 2026 for its most immersive and ambitious year yet\, bringing its signature blend of fandom\, rhinestones\, and glitter to the Nation’s Capital. Cosplay meets cabaret in this pop-culture and burlesque spectacular: DC’s “Comic Con in a Corset” lands September 11-12 at Dance Place. This two-night extravaganza invites audiences into a universe where the grown and sexy meet the geeky and fabulous. Each night features a different showcase celebrating popular culture across media\, set against a sultry\, intimate nightlife backdrop.  Plus exclusive workshops\, vending\, and community events led by our performers and festival partners!  \n \n \n \n \n \n About TNIF\n Performers\n Performances\n \n \n About TNIF\n Originally founded in 2014 in New York City\, the International Nerdlesque Festival was the first burlesque festival in the world to spotlight nerdlesque: a performance genre where pop culture\, fandom\, and striptease collide. From Star Wars tributes to anime-inspired acts\, this genre revels in the power of fantasy\, nostalgia\, and queer creativity. After more than a decade of showcasing talent from around the world\, the festival expanded to Washington\, DC in 2021 \n Performers\n With an all-star lineup of burlesque royalty\, TINF 2026 will feature headlining performances from Top 50 Most Influential Burlesque Star La Reina (NO) and Silver Tusk Award Winner Red Rum (IL)—plus standout acts by Silver Kitsune (IL)\, Qu’in De La Noche (CA)\, and TNA Wrestling/TROMA star Monique Dupree (MD). The creative team includes Maki Roll (DMV)\, Kimono Jones (DMV)\, and Jove Galore (DC)\, all respected visionaries in performance art\, nightlife\, and immersive entertainment. \n Performances\n 9/11: Nerdvana: Retro Rewind kicks off the International Nerdlesque Festival with a sexy\, campy blast from the past.  Join us as we dive headfirst into beloved fandoms and comically cursed earworms of yesteryear. 9/12: The International Nerdlesque Festival Mega Showcase features a brand new lineup of national and international cabaret superstars\, bringing your favorite iconic characters and fandoms to life in ways you’ve never seen before. Nerdy\, cheeky\, and gloriously unhinged! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Workshops \n \n \n \n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 11AM (2 hour duration) Presenter: Qu’in De La Noche (She/Her)This class offers a unique opportunity for dancers to build confidence and deepen bodily awareness in ways you’ve never felt before. Led by real-life martial artist and Afro-Latin burlesque icon Qu’in de la Noche\, students will learn the fundamentals of weapons flow through breathwork\, intentional movement\, and drills designed to encourage interactive play. Together\, we move with purpose\, precision\, and power – with intentional movement designed to elevate your natural flow through simple exercises\, combat-inspired choreography\, and respect for the blade above all. Prerequisites: At least 1 year of consistent dance training or equivalent movement coordination. All are welcome. Attendees are encouraged to bring a prop weapon. No live weapons shall be used in this workshop. \n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 1:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: La Reina (They/Them) When you’re on the stage do you imagine that you’re a Warrior Royalty battling your way to the throne? Or a Fiendish Ghoul hunting your prey for just the taste of life that sustains you? Or do you imagine that you’re some winged creature building up the courage to fly\, to soar and to be free? Then this is the workshop for you. Building a world around your acts allows you to fully step into the storytelling of Burlesque. Storytelling is one of the many beautiful elements of the performing arts. It creates a space where not only does your audience feel transported into another plane of existence\, but gives you the brush to paint\, to remember\, to honor your experiences\, dreams and visions of and for your life that then becomes transformative moments every time you step on the stage. Storytelling can impact everything in a performance. From lighting direction to costuming to even how you welcome tease into the art\, showcasing your world is a much needed tool in the toolbelt of an artist. What we will cover: Building a Character Sheet of our Stage Persona Story Structure Movement Inspirations Themes & Motifs   Please bring a writing utensil\, notebook\, and comfortable clothes & shoes for light movement. \n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 11AM (1 hour duration) Presenter: Silver Kitsune (They/Them) Do you see more experienced performers and marvel at their custom costumes? Do you worry that you’ll never level up if you don’t have a degree in design or a sponsor to finance your stage life? Then this introductory class is the place to start! Join Silver Kitsune\, costumer\, fabricator\, and designer\, as they walk you through the methods they use to upcycle thrift store finds and customize store-bought basics. Everyone starts from square one\, but there is no reason you have to stay there! In this class\, you will learn the best techniques for sourcing on a tight budget\, what to look for to optimize your thrifting\, basic tailoring hacks to custom fit your costumes to your body\, how to design specifically for stage reveals\, and at what point it’s best to just buy it pre-made. Transform yourself from Cosplay Fledgling to Nerdlesque Star! \n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 12:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: RedRum (She/Her)A little bit PEEPshow\, a little bit FREAKshow…a little bit CREEPshow! Burlesque Performance Artist RedRum will demonstrate quick and creative uses of scar wax\, gelatin based FX productsand other means of achieving dimension with basic makeup tools. We will create one large scar to learn how to sculpt and manipulate wax and one face melt burn using the 3D Gel. Learn how to transition the edges and “dress” the wounds with blood gel and color to enhance the horrific effect! Materials are not required for participation in the workshop. Materials being used if you do want to play along: Ben Nye Scar and Nose WaxMehron SynWax Synthetic Modeling WaxMehron Makeup 3D Gel\, Blood Red and FleshMehron Spirit GumMehron Liquid LatexStipple SpongeMehron MakeupMakeup SpatulaFake BloodBen Nye color wheels with a variety of reds\, yellow and bluesSmall hot plate and small heat safe cup or container\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n PURCHASE FESTIVAL & WORKSHOP TICKETS\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thank you to our 2026-2027 Season Supporters! URL:https://www.danceplace.org/performances/big-kid-dance-45/ LOCATION:Dance Place\, 3225 8th Street NE\, Washington\, DC\, 20017\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.danceplace.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/BIGKID-DANCE-Photo-Credit_-Matthew-Caserta.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260306 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260309 DTSTAMP:20260817T141003 CREATED:20250715T224825Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260223T155123Z UID:43604-1772755200-1773014399@www.danceplace.org SUMMARY:PRIME: A Tribute to Returning Home DESCRIPTION:Image Description: A performer in a strappy costume\, heels and crown\, opens their wings in a strong\, empowering walk. The stage is washed in a red and orange glow. In the bottom right corner\, over a circular pink gradient\, reads the Dance Place logo in white lettering. Photo Credit: Tansura T. Photography. \n \n \n \n The International Nerdlesque Festival \n \n \n \n September 11–13\, 2026 The International Nerdlesque Festival (TINF) returns in 2026 for its most immersive and ambitious year yet\, bringing its signature blend of fandom\, rhinestones\, and glitter to the Nation’s Capital. Cosplay meets cabaret in this pop-culture and burlesque spectacular: DC’s “Comic Con in a Corset” lands September 11-12 at Dance Place. This two-night extravaganza invites audiences into a universe where the grown and sexy meet the geeky and fabulous. Each night features a different showcase celebrating popular culture across media\, set against a sultry\, intimate nightlife backdrop.  Plus exclusive workshops\, vending\, and community events led by our performers and festival partners!  \n \n \n \n \n \n About TNIF\n Performers\n Performances\n \n \n About TNIF\n Originally founded in 2014 in New York City\, the International Nerdlesque Festival was the first burlesque festival in the world to spotlight nerdlesque: a performance genre where pop culture\, fandom\, and striptease collide. From Star Wars tributes to anime-inspired acts\, this genre revels in the power of fantasy\, nostalgia\, and queer creativity. After more than a decade of showcasing talent from around the world\, the festival expanded to Washington\, DC in 2021 \n Performers\n With an all-star lineup of burlesque royalty\, TINF 2026 will feature headlining performances from Top 50 Most Influential Burlesque Star La Reina (NO) and Silver Tusk Award Winner Red Rum (IL)—plus standout acts by Silver Kitsune (IL)\, Qu’in De La Noche (CA)\, and TNA Wrestling/TROMA star Monique Dupree (MD). The creative team includes Maki Roll (DMV)\, Kimono Jones (DMV)\, and Jove Galore (DC)\, all respected visionaries in performance art\, nightlife\, and immersive entertainment. \n Performances\n 9/11: Nerdvana: Retro Rewind kicks off the International Nerdlesque Festival with a sexy\, campy blast from the past.  Join us as we dive headfirst into beloved fandoms and comically cursed earworms of yesteryear. 9/12: The International Nerdlesque Festival Mega Showcase features a brand new lineup of national and international cabaret superstars\, bringing your favorite iconic characters and fandoms to life in ways you’ve never seen before. Nerdy\, cheeky\, and gloriously unhinged! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Workshops \n \n \n \n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n \n \n Embody The Blade: Sword Dancing & Self Defense for Dancers\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 11AM (2 hour duration) Presenter: Qu’in De La Noche (She/Her)This class offers a unique opportunity for dancers to build confidence and deepen bodily awareness in ways you’ve never felt before. Led by real-life martial artist and Afro-Latin burlesque icon Qu’in de la Noche\, students will learn the fundamentals of weapons flow through breathwork\, intentional movement\, and drills designed to encourage interactive play. Together\, we move with purpose\, precision\, and power – with intentional movement designed to elevate your natural flow through simple exercises\, combat-inspired choreography\, and respect for the blade above all. Prerequisites: At least 1 year of consistent dance training or equivalent movement coordination. All are welcome. Attendees are encouraged to bring a prop weapon. No live weapons shall be used in this workshop. \n Quirks & Corsets: World Building Your Stage Persona\n Saturday\, September 12\, 2026 at 1:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: La Reina (They/Them) When you’re on the stage do you imagine that you’re a Warrior Royalty battling your way to the throne? Or a Fiendish Ghoul hunting your prey for just the taste of life that sustains you? Or do you imagine that you’re some winged creature building up the courage to fly\, to soar and to be free? Then this is the workshop for you. Building a world around your acts allows you to fully step into the storytelling of Burlesque. Storytelling is one of the many beautiful elements of the performing arts. It creates a space where not only does your audience feel transported into another plane of existence\, but gives you the brush to paint\, to remember\, to honor your experiences\, dreams and visions of and for your life that then becomes transformative moments every time you step on the stage. Storytelling can impact everything in a performance. From lighting direction to costuming to even how you welcome tease into the art\, showcasing your world is a much needed tool in the toolbelt of an artist. What we will cover: Building a Character Sheet of our Stage Persona Story Structure Movement Inspirations Themes & Motifs   Please bring a writing utensil\, notebook\, and comfortable clothes & shoes for light movement. \n Nerdlesque Costuming for Beginners\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 11AM (1 hour duration) Presenter: Silver Kitsune (They/Them) Do you see more experienced performers and marvel at their custom costumes? Do you worry that you’ll never level up if you don’t have a degree in design or a sponsor to finance your stage life? Then this introductory class is the place to start! Join Silver Kitsune\, costumer\, fabricator\, and designer\, as they walk you through the methods they use to upcycle thrift store finds and customize store-bought basics. Everyone starts from square one\, but there is no reason you have to stay there! In this class\, you will learn the best techniques for sourcing on a tight budget\, what to look for to optimize your thrifting\, basic tailoring hacks to custom fit your costumes to your body\, how to design specifically for stage reveals\, and at what point it’s best to just buy it pre-made. Transform yourself from Cosplay Fledgling to Nerdlesque Star! \n House of Wax: Face & Scar Sculpting Wax FX\n Sunday\, September 13\, 2026 at 12:30PM (1.5 hour duration) Presenter: RedRum (She/Her)A little bit PEEPshow\, a little bit FREAKshow…a little bit CREEPshow! Burlesque Performance Artist RedRum will demonstrate quick and creative uses of scar wax\, gelatin based FX productsand other means of achieving dimension with basic makeup tools. We will create one large scar to learn how to sculpt and manipulate wax and one face melt burn using the 3D Gel. Learn how to transition the edges and “dress” the wounds with blood gel and color to enhance the horrific effect! Materials are not required for participation in the workshop. Materials being used if you do want to play along: Ben Nye Scar and Nose WaxMehron SynWax Synthetic Modeling WaxMehron Makeup 3D Gel\, Blood Red and FleshMehron Spirit GumMehron Liquid LatexStipple SpongeMehron MakeupMakeup SpatulaFake BloodBen Nye color wheels with a variety of reds\, yellow and bluesSmall hot plate and small heat safe cup or container\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n PURCHASE FESTIVAL & WORKSHOP TICKETS\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Thank you to our 2026-2027 Season Supporters! URL:https://www.danceplace.org/performances/prime-45/ LOCATION:Dance Place\, 3225 8th Street NE\, Washington\, DC\, 20017\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.danceplace.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/PRIME-1.png END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR