Sexy show raises cash for charities

The Sexy Silk, Leather and Lace show by the Cabalesque group at Montgomery Hall included burlesque and streetdance routines and ensemble pieces set to songs from West End shows.

Instructor Michelle Tudor has been staging shows at the Wath venue for three years.

She teaches two classes a week for women - as well as a session for men, who took centre stage with a routine inspired by the striptease scene from The Full Monty.

Michelle said: “A lot of people, when they come initially, are a bit tentative and a bit like rabbits in the headlights but it’s about developing their confidence and the feedback they get from their families and the feeling from being part of the dance family is great.

“What I really love and why I do it is for that feedback, and hearing about the journeys they’ve been on.  

“Some people have got new jobs or got out of rubbish relationships because of that new-found confidence.

“We have such a following for the shows and people can’t wait until the next one.”

As well as the troupe’s own routines, the show included a healthy dose of audience participation.

“Some people do run for the hills, but we get a few up on stage which they really enjoy,” said Michelle.

This year’s two-night run had brought in £1,722 for BIAD (Barnsley Independent Alzheimer’s and Dementia) and Making Space Rotherham, which supports carers and people with Alzheimer’s and Dementia.  

The charities were picked in consultation with members and Michelle said it was important to “give something back to the community”.

Rehearsals will begin in January for next year’s shows at Montgomery Hall on November 16 and 17.