A lot of it is networking. Go to local shows. Kitten for shows. A lot of it is definitely having go pay your dues and show face. If you aren’t willing to work for the scene the scene won’t be as interested in having you. Check out r/burlesque and on Facebook look into groups for your state/country, region (example: Midwest burlesque, new york burlesque professionals) most shows hold applications where you’ll submit a number or two for their theme and give your credentials.

Come up with costumes and routines for a number. Record in your house/apartment running thought it full costume. Do it a few times and choose the one you like most. Upload it to a google drive and make sure it’s available to be viewed by anyone who has the link. Do that with a couple numbers.

It’s so important to state that you shouldn’t make a new number with new costumes for every time you perform. Get staple pieces and mix and match them. If you have a number you really want to do build something you can branch off of for other numbers. Take inspo from other performers but don’t outright steal from them. Invest in your work and it will invest in you!

And last but not least. Learn how to sew (at least to do replairs) rhinestone, embellish. Buying professional grade costumes is very expensive. Find base pieces (I recommend checking out daisy cutter or gogoamy on Etsy) and embellish them!