In October 2022, I suggested the idea of a regular mini showcase at Momentum Studio in Gloucester for nervous performers - somewhere students could boost their confidence by performing in a safe, supportive environment. Somewhere they're free to experiment and test out routines for bigger showcases and competitions. Somewhere they can try out something new like freestyling or their first strip tease.
As I was watching Stranger Things at the time, I called it Heelfire Club.
A month later, the first night was held and there were 25 performances! In the months that followed, Heelfire Club was featured in Brass Monkey Magazine. It was incredible to see full page images of previously shy students looking gloriously badass. Heelfire Club also started to allow a non-Momentum/Inspire student to attend Heelfire Club to allow students from other pole studios access to a safe space to perform.
Heelfire has grown to include a big, nationwide annual showcase, five Heelfire Club mini showcases every year, the School of Heelfire mentorship program and a store with cool tees and useful pole accessories. For more information on all things Heelfire, please visit the website or the Heelfire Store.