Unleash Your Inner Diva: Calo Cammilleri’s Burlesque Workshop for the Queer Community
When art, dance, and queer activism collide, magic happens. Enter Calogero Cammilleri—an artist, dancer, and queer trailblazer who has dedicated his life to creating spaces where self-expression and authenticity take center stage. Through his groundbreaking burlesque workshops, Calo invites the LGBTQIA+ community to embrace their inner divas, find their confidence, and dazzle unapologetically.
A Journey Through Dance and Discovery
Calo’s story begins in Belgium, where his passion for movement was born. As a young dancer, he dreamed of expressing himself on stages around the world. That dream became a reality as he built a vibrant career across Belgium and France, mastering styles that ranged from urban and Latin to contemporary dance. For over a decade, he performed with prestigious dance companies, gracing the stages of theaters and operas. Yet, despite his success, Calo felt something was missing. Beneath the sequins and spotlights, he yearned for deeper creative freedom—a way to truly channel his voice and identity through his art.
It was during a transformative three-year break from professional dance that Calo’s path took an unexpected turn. Alongside his partner Max, a gifted tattoo artist, he co-founded The Cube Tattoo Lab in Barcelona, a groundbreaking queer tattoo and piercing studio. In this space, Calo immersed himself in the world of body piercing, a practice that deepened his understanding of self-expression and the power of embracing one’s body. This creative interlude not only expanded his artistic horizons but also reignited his passion for performance. When Calo returned to the stage, it was with a fresh perspective and a new muse: burlesque.
Discovering Burlesque: An Artform of Liberation
Burlesque became more than just a performance style for Calo; it became his sanctuary. The art form’s playfulness, sensuality, and limitless potential for self-expression resonated deeply with him. For Calo, burlesque was a rebellion against societal expectations and a celebration of individuality. It offered a way to explore his identity as a queer person, infusing his performances with raw emotion, authenticity, and an unapologetic love for the art of tease.
As Calo delved deeper into burlesque, he realized it was not just a platform for personal expression but also a powerful tool for community empowerment. He envisioned a space where others could experience the transformative magic of burlesque—a space where people of all identities and backgrounds could feel seen, celebrated, and free to be themselves.
Building a Glittering Community
Calo’s workshops are more than just dance classes; they are journeys of self-discovery. Participants are guided through the art of burlesque, learning the techniques of performance and the subtle power of storytelling through movement. Yet, beyond the glitter and glam, these workshops delve into the heart of self-empowerment.
In these spaces, individuals are encouraged to confront their fears and shed the insecurities imposed by a judgmental world. Calo shares his knowledge and passion with warmth and humor, helping participants rediscover their beauty and confidence. It’s a process of liberation, where each shimmy, strut, and reveal becomes a step toward self-acceptance and pride. His workshops foster a sense of solidarity, creating a vibrant community that celebrates authenticity and supports one another.
Why Calo’s Work Matters
In a world that often marginalizes queer voices, Calo’s work stands as a shining example of how art can be a vehicle for change. By promoting diversity, inclusion, and self-expression, he is helping to dismantle stereotypes and build a more accepting society. Through burlesque, Calo demonstrates the power of art to heal, inspire, and unite.
Your Invitation to Shine
Calo’s journey is an invitation for others to embrace their own. His next burlesque workshop offers the perfect opportunity to step into a world of empowerment and celebration. Whether you’re looking to master the art of the tease or simply want to explore a new form of self-expression, Calo’s workshops promise an unforgettable experience.
Don’t miss the chance to explore the transformative power of burlesque. Step into the spotlight, embrace your authenticity, and let your inner diva shine. Reserve your spot today and join Calo on this glittering journey of self-discovery.
The next workshop will take place on Sunday, January 19th, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, at Dance School U-Dance, located at Carrer de Mèxic, 13, Sants-Montjuïc, 08004 Barcelona.
Follow along with Calo’s projects:
Calogero Cammilleri: @instinbasic
The Cube Tattoo: @thecubetattoo
K-lo Piercing: @k.lo_piercing