The inaugural Heart of Ireland Burlesque Festival kicks off in Westmeath this evening.
A midlands woman is hoping to break the stigma around a sensual dance style reserved for adults.
Athlone's Michelle Jinks will be bringing the first Heart of Ireland Burlesque Festival to Athlone this evening.
The aim of the festival, which runs until the Sunday, is to encourage empowerment in performers on stage while promoting local activities around the town.
Ms. Jinks says burlesque is a form of dance that is an art that allows a performer tell a story: