Never done any sort of dance class in my life and I was made to feel so welcome here! It went from a taster session to now a 9 week course and a performance! Super lovely teacher who makes it so easier for those who have no idea what they are doing (like me!) or have zero confidence (like me!) definitely worth a try it you are thinking about it

Edit: just completed the course and i just did the show! It was amazing! This has honestly changed my life..it's been a rollercoaster of emotions but I honestly had so much fun and I can't wait to see what is next!

5 months ago

What an amazing lady, what an amazing Burlesque School. Shayla is such a sweetie, kind and patient, very women-empowering, no judging, and makes everyone feel at ease. Honestly, I have more rolls on me than a bakery and then some, and on my best days, I used to feel like Shrek. But with Shayla's help and building a persona, none of that mattered and made me feel gorgeous like the Queen I'm meant to be. So if you're sitting there wondering, "But I'm too old, I'm too this, I'm too that," STOP! Book right this minute and Shayla will make you feel and empower you, along with the new friends you will make.xx

Wow, what can I say. At the beginning of March I told a friend that I need to get out more, meet new people, have fun and get out of my comfort zone... 3 days later I'd signed up for the 9 week Burlesque Course, having never seen a burlesque show! What an incredible experience it has been!! We started as a diverse group of relatively self conscious, some timid, pretty much all lacking in confidence, awesome women, who I feel privileged to have shared this journey with. Petit Pois (aka Shayla) is not just an inspirational performer, but an excellent teacher who gives everyone the space and grace to grow at their own pace. I'm confident in my work and general life, but hadn't realised just how much body confidence I had lost until I began this course, it was a bit scary, and the thought of getting on stage with very little on actually terrified me. But in 9 short weeks I can honestly say I've grown so much, we all have.

This has been a life changing experience, and the theatre show was just the icing on the cake. We were so well looked after! Shayla was so incredibly supportive throughout, allowing us creative freedom, but at the same time guiding us to a performance that moved some of the audience to tears. I'm so proud of what we achieved, and I'm so lucky to have met such a wonderful group of women, and especially our amazing teacher. Every woman should do this at least once in her life, the sooner the better (what are you waiting for!!). I can't wait for the next course, and the solo course. p.s. I'm fairly old, it's never too late to find and appreciate yourself!!

I would recommend this course to anyone looking to increase their confidence and unleash their hidden diva in the art of Burlesque. It’s a great introduction to this style of performance.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my 9 weeks at Surrey Burlesque School and had the pleasure of being mentored by the incredible one and only “Petit Pois”.

I have always wanted to try Burlesque, but never had the courage until I saw the advert for beginners.

My goal was to build my confidence and I believe this course has done so.

Performing in front of live audiences was the most empowering moment of my life and I absolutely loved it. I’ve also met the most beautiful bunch of women and I’m very proud to be part of “The Rhinestone Rebels”.

Lots of Love
Phoenix 🐦‍🔥

Well, where do I begin… I’ve been to Burlesque many times over the last 10 years, I’ve always loved it. Part of me wondered if in an alternate reality of my life, before having my beautiful children if I could’ve been a burlesque show girl like the wonderful women I’ve idolised for years. Life continued, always watching from the sidelines… until PetitPois aka Shayla Ash, launched Surrey Burlesque School. After attending a taster session, i immediately booked onto the 9 week course which ended in taking part in the very show I’d been to watch so many times. Scary!! 

Week 1, too self conscious to wear gym shorts to our classes… to week 9 of baring all on stage in front of a live audience!!! I can honestly say I’ve loved every second, I did not want to leave the stage and I can’t wait to do it again!!! My new found confidence has leaked into all aspects of my life!

If you are thinking about it, you will never regret it, whatever age, ability, gender, body shape/size… it simply does not matter at Surrey Burlesque School! Shayla WILL help you find your inner show girl in the most supportive way!