Classes
Questions? Fill out the form for the class you are interested in.
Sideshow School
Learn Ancient Skills from the very best in the business! Have you ever dreamed of running away with the circus? Has anyone ever called you a freak? Well, now's your chance to become one! At Coney Island USA's Sideshow School, you can learn how to hammer a 20-penny nail right into your skull and live to talk about the experience! You'll work with Professa Adam Realman to learn the ins and outs of the working acts of the sideshow.
YOU MUST BE 18 YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER TO ATTEND THE SIDESHOW SKILLS SESSION.
This class is limited to 10 students to ensure a proper student-to-instructor ratio.
The Coney Island Sideshow School reserves the right to cancel the session if a minimum of five students are not registered by the deadline. Registered students will be notified if the session is canceled and a full refund will be issued.
Classes in individual skills are NOT offered. You must sign up for the entire session.
Dates: July 20-23
10:00am To 2:00pm
Student Showcase on July 24th
On July 24th, students will have the opportunity to present a skill they learned on the Sideshows By The Seashore stage for a real audience. (This is optional but encouraged)
Students will have the opportunity to present a skill they learned on the Sideshows By The Seashore stage for a real audience. (This is optional but encouraged)
All students must sign a "hold harmless" agreement to be distributed at the start of the first session.
Tuition: $1,650
-
The Basics of Fire Eating and Breathing and Fire Safety
Human Blockhead
The Fundamentals of Sword Swallowing
Bed of Nails
Stunts with Various Traps
Glass Walking
Blade Box
Electric Chair
Questions:
Burlesque Master Class
It’s here!
The Coney Island USA 2026 Masterclass in Burlesque is open for registration.
Thursdays: June 11, 18, 25, July 2 (online on zoom), 9, 16
In-person classes take place at the Coney Island Museum*
1208 Surf Avenue, Upstairs above the Gift Shop
July 2: 6.30-8.30 online on zoom
Showcase: July 23, 8 pm, in the Sideshow Theater
*The Coney Island Museum is located on the second floor and is not wheelchair-accessible at this time
Instructor: Headmustress Jo Weldon
Get ready for the summer of your life with the Coney Island Masterclass in Burlesque! There’s nothing else in the world like this series, held in a historical space that will inspire students to new heights of playfulness and glamour, and featuring exciting guest instructors who are some of Coney’s most celebrated performers.
All styles are welcome, from classic peeling to comedic anarchy.
This series guides students through all the steps of creating their own original solo number:
*Developing your character, concept, and theme
*Choosing the perfect music
*Assembling a costume
*Creating choreography
*Striptease Expertise
*Making pasties
*Twirling Tassels
*Free video and text supplements
*Spectacular superstar guest instructors TBA!
*After the series is complete, you’ll receive additional video and text materials on the business of burlesque
Act development process will also include:
*Finding the perfect stage name
*Class Discussions
*Unique worksheets to track your ideas and progress
For the first class:
*Dress for comfort and movement
*Bring a pen and notebook
*Bring a copy of The Burlesque Handbook, either analog or ebook
*Get ready to have fun!
Please be prepared for varying expenses in addition to the class fee, including:
*Costuming
*Textbook (The Burlesque Handbook, available in the Coney Island USA gift shop or online)
*Photography and/or video
*Optional private consultations
*Other costs that may arise from the requirements of your routine.
All genders welcome.
Attendance at no fewer than 12 hours of the series required to perform in the July 23rd showcase. Private consultation make-up classes are available on a limited basis.
Logistical limitations may apply to stage props.
Limited to ten students.
Look for updates on guest lecturers at joweldon.com.
Tuition: $395
Includes all six classes
Burlesque Master Class reserves the right to cancel the session if a minimum of six students are not registered by the deadline. Registered students will be notified if the session is canceled and a full refund will be issued.
Questions:
Coney Island Film School
The Coney Island Film School is the first ever film course to be offered at the legendary Coney Island USA. Students will have the opportunity to be taught by cult movie and music video director, Dylan Mars Greenberg. The sessions take place throughout Coney Island's amusement district and within Coney Island USA. Experimentation and fun will be combined with education to provide a creatively fulfilling experience for ages 12-112!
Classes meet Sundays:
January 25
February 1, 8, 15, 22
March 1, 8, 15
1:00-6:00 PM
Film Fest on March 20 or 21
In this well rounded curriculum Dylan will teach filming techniques, editing, conceiving ideas and planning.
The session will be capped at 15 students. A minimum of 8 students must be registered by January 15 or we reserve the right to cancel the class and issue a full refund.
Students will need their own mobile device (iPhone, Android or tablet) as well as a laptop with [TBD] editing software pre-installed.
No prior filmmaking experience is necessary.
Registration begins now.
Tuition: $850
Per person