On the weekend, I had the opportunity to attend my first burlesque show. I have to say I loved it! I will definitely attend more and highly recommend that you attend one if you have been wanting to. Being into vintage for many years I have known a bit about burlesque and seen a few clips and even been tempted to attend a class… but never delved into this area before. Was it lack of confidence? I don’t know.
Burlesque has been used in English in the literary and theatrical sense since the late 17th century. Its meaning overlaps with caricature, parody and travesty in a theatrical sense and with extravaganza in the Victorian era. The word is derived from the Italian word “burla” for joke. Burlesque dancing is a well established art form that relies on scandalous humour, high glamour and elaborate staging.
Burlesque dancing was recently made popular by the 2010 movie “Burlesque” starring Cher and Christina Aguilera.
Today, burlesque includes comedy or drama performances with modern dance and live music. The experience is unique as there is artistic striptease by beautiful models, performed stylishly with glamour and flashiness. Some performances, I had the opportunity to see on the weekend, also involved the skill of pole dancing. Burlesque is also famous for its fashion style. It is recognisable for the corsets, hats, feathers, fishnets, feathered clothes, stockings, boas, feathered accessories and let’s not forget the extravagant hairstyles.
The shows are not just a strip tease, but rather a classy and exotic striptease as an art show form. Burlesque performers are trained dancing professionals. Many cherish their work for its feminist and artistic statement. Go along and see a show and form your own opinion. Then if you want, go and join a class. There are many vintage dance schools around that have burlesque classes available. I decided I am joining one this week! I will let you know how it goes.
Back Soon….
Ridiculously Retro Xx
Ridiculously Retro 