Serial part 1
Recently, Paige had been in a rut – but her life was about to change dramatically
Are you sure about this, Orla?’ Paige hesitated outside the community centre, suddenly self-conscious in her usual baggy combats, her chestnut shoulder-length hair scraped back into a loose ponytail. This wasn’t how she normally spent her Wednesday evenings and, although it was something she’d wondered about trying for some time, Paige was having second thoughts.
‘It will be fun,’ her friend Orla assured her. ‘I’ve always wanted to channel my inner goddess – haven’t you?’
Paige couldn’t help smiling. Orla Duvitski was in her element. Petite and naturally flamboyant, with a cascade of raven-black hair, she’d recently completed a fashion design course at the local college, using her artistic flair to create her own retro-style clothes to sell online.
‘Ready?’ Orla grabbed Paige’s hand, and together they stepped inside.
Glancing at the other students, Paige was surprised at the range of ages. She had expected everyone to be younger, but there were plenty of 40-somethings like herself and Orla.
‘Welcome to your first burlesque class.’ A glamorous, curvaceous woman, stunning in heels and corset, sashayed over and introduced herself. ‘I’ll be your teacher for the next six weeks. My name is Angela Smith but you can call me Angel. Names are important. You might want to choose a new one for the showcase.’
‘What showcase?’ whispered Paige, nervously, as Angel continued…
‘This course is an opportunity to reinvent yourself. Don’t be afraid to celebrate your bodies, your curves, your feminine power. Embrace your inner diva and take centre stage in your own life.’
Despite her reservations, Paige felt an unexpected flutter of excitement at venturing outside her comfort zone.
‘OK, everyone. We’ll begin with a warm-up,’ announced Angel, playing upbeat music.
‘Trainers to start off, and wear whatever you feel comfortable in, but no jeans. Then we’ll work on some sassy moves that involve feather boas from the prop box.
‘Each move will be broken down into doable steps. At the end of the course, we’ll have a group routine for our Family and Friends Showcase. And, for anyone who wants to, you can also choose music and create your own choreography for an individual piece.’
Paige gulped as Angel added, ‘But there’s no pressure, ladies. Remember, it’s entirely your choice to take part in the showcase. I’ve put up some YouTube videos for those who fancy practising between sessions.’
✱ ✱ ✱ ✱
Travelling home afterwards on the bus, Orla was buzzing. ‘So, what did you think?’
‘You were right, it was fun,’ confessed Paige.
‘Isn’t Angel magnificent?’ grinned Orla. ‘I can’t wa
