The Life of a REAL Showgirl:
Cherry Belle’s Story
The Life of a REAL Showgirl:
Cherry Belle’s Story
Not long ago, at A. Dannette Boudoir Studio in Lafayette, LA, we had the honor of photographing Cherry Belle, a local burlesque dancer whose story is as bold, radiant, and unforgettable as her performances. More than a showgirl, she is a living example of what it means to embrace courage, body confidence, and unapologetic self-expression.
This is her story—a journey of reinvention, resilience, and celebrating womanhood at every stage of life.
Discovering Burlesque at 32
For many, burlesque feels like an art reserved for the young or the daring. But Cherry Belle breaks that myth wide open.
“I was 32 when I first got involved in burlesque.”
She wasn’t new to performing—her background in ballet, tap, jazz, and lyrical dance had already shaped her as an artist. But burlesque was different. It wasn’t just choreography, it was storytelling. It was vulnerability. It was the fearless act of showing the world not just movement, but your femininity, confidence, and spirit.
At first, the leap was intimidating. But Cherry Belle quickly discovered that burlesque wasn’t about judgment. It was about admiration, artistry, and connection.
“After attending many shows and seeing how receptive the audience was, it helped me realize that people don’t go to burlesque shows to judge. They go to admire and to enjoy the art. Attending burlesque classes made a huge impact on my confidence as well.”
Through the support of her community and the joy of performing, she unlocked a new level of confidence, one that would carry her through the next chapter of her life.
Redefining Beauty After Motherhood
Becoming a mother is a transformation like no other. For Cherry Belle, it came with both love and self-doubt.
“At one point I thought I would never perform again. But then I started going to shows again, and taking more classes, and I was reminded that I am allowed to be celebrated and admired in whatever body I am in.”
Like so many women, she faced the reality of a body that had changed. But instead of letting that stop her, she reclaimed her stage. Burlesque became a mirror, not of “flaws” or limitations, but of resilience, sensuality, and strength.
Her journey reminded her of something we all need to hear: even the women who seem fearless carry insecurities too.
“It has helped me realize that even the most fabulous people have insecurities, and I’m not alone.”
Burlesque as Freedom
For Cherry Belle, burlesque isn’t only about self-expression, it’s about building a legacy of Freedom.
“Burlesque is my way of showing other women that they are fabulous too.”
This is where the art becomes magic. Burlesque is more than glitter and glamour—it’s an invitation. An invitation to women everywhere to celebrate themselves as they are right now, not when they’ve “arrived” at some impossible standard.
Being a powerhouse of a woman doesn’t come from chasing perfection. It comes from owning your story, your body, and your worth.
Why We’re Sharing Her Story
At A. Dannette Boudoir Photography, we believe that confident, empowered women transform the world. By fostering feminine strength and supporting women in reclaiming their stories, we contribute to building a more compassionate, balanced society.
Cherry Belle’s story reminds us all:
✨ Power lives in vulnerability.
✨ Courage is born from self-expression.
✨ Confidence is built from courage and courage comes from self expression.
So here’s to Cherry Belle—and to every woman who has ever doubted herself but chose to shine anyway.