Performance Glossary | Performance Academy
Performance Glossary
Definitions for the terms every performer should know — from footwear and costumes to accessories and competition terminology.
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Bodysuit
A one-piece garment covering the torso, fastening at the crotch. A staple of pole dance, burlesque, cabaret, and festival wear. Available in mesh, velvet, sequin, and stretch fabrics.
Shop Bodysuits →Bustle
Structured padding worn under a skirt at the back to add volume. Common in Victorian-inspired burlesque and steampunk costumes.
Shop Costumes →C
Character Shoe
A closed-toe, low-heeled shoe used in theater and dance. Available in T-strap and Mary Jane styles with 1.5–2.5" heels. Designed for movement and long wear.
Shop Character Shoes →Competition Heel
A heel designed for dance competitions. Features suede soles for grip, secure ankle straps, and a flared or stiletto heel depending on the dance style.
Shop Competition Heels →Corset
A structured garment worn around the torso to shape the waist. Steel-boned corsets provide firm shaping; fashion corsets are lighter. A staple of burlesque, gothic, and steampunk wear.
Shop Corsets →G
Grip Aid
A product applied to skin or hands to improve grip on a pole or apparatus. Available as sprays, lotions, and chalk. Essential for pole dance and aerial arts.
Shop Accessories →L
Lace Front Wig
A wig with a sheer lace panel at the front hairline creating a natural look. The lace is glued or taped to the skin. Standard for drag, cosplay, and theatrical performance.
Shop Wigs →Latin Heel
A dance heel for Latin ballroom styles. Features a flared 2–2.5" heel, suede sole, and open toe. Provides stability for fast footwork and hip movement.
Shop Latin Heels →Leotard
A tight-fitting one-piece garment covering the torso, open at the legs. Used in gymnastics, figure skating, aerial arts, and dance. The foundation of many performance costumes.
Shop Leotards →P
Platform Heel
A shoe with a thick sole platform under the toe box, reducing effective heel height. Platform heights range from 1" to 4"+. The signature shoe of pole dance.
Shop Platform Heels →R
Rhinestones
Faceted glass or crystal stones used to embellish costumes, shoes, and accessories. Used extensively in ballroom, figure skating, drag, and pageant wear. Applied with heat or adhesive.
Shop Rhinestone Pieces →S
Stiletto
A heel style with a very thin, tall heel (typically 3–5"+). Used in drag, burlesque, cabaret, and pageant performance. Requires practice to walk in safely.
Shop Stilettos →