I definitely definitely think you should go for it - I think you'll learn lots more about yourself and I think it will help you with your burlesque too.

I watched a Faking It USA last week where a very straight-laced fire captain had to fake it as a stand-up comedian and it was really interesting to watch. His first show he absolutely bombed, dried up totally, had no rapport with the audience and also in the training he just took himself way to seriously.

But prior to the final challenge he worked on his routine (which he based on himself and his experiences, the sort of write about what you know thing, rather than telling jokes he thought would be funny) and did some stand-up at every opportunity he could, in front of work mates, on a bus, in the open air etc. and he grew so much in confidence it was untrue.

His turning points were going to an improv class where he stopped over-analysing 'what is funny?' and working with an acting coach who taught him to tap into his own emotions (that he had been scared to show) - she said that an audience best connects with someone who takes the risk at showing their emotions....I have no idea whether this is true on not, perhaps Rufus or Lucille Burn can tell us from an acting point of view - but it worked with him.

Have you thought about finding an improv class to develop your style?

Go for it - I think you'd discover whole new sides to yourself and gain even more confidence from stepping outside the box (oh dear management-speak)