Posted by Miss Furi
on February 09, 2025
After more than two decades, I still don't have one definitive answer (see my origin story). That's a good clue that there probably isn't one. It can encompass anything from bawdy humour, satirical social comment, shocking crassness, classic vintage glamour, or sensual striptease, circus acrobatics, spoken word...and more.
As a performance genre, it is dualistically about challenging convention and pushing boundaries, as it is about adhering to a historical format and traditional aesthetic. Burlesque is almost impossible to define because it is so broad. And yet, it does have some key hallmarks.
These days, the label of Burlesque implies a retrospective-ness. Indeed, many Burlesque acts are a nostalgic tribute to the glamour and style of the past. Often, these vintage-inspired acts are on the serious side.
For many, 'burlesque' is code for "old-fashioned and classy striptease". This classic aesthetic is deemed a more sophisticated way to enjoy erotic dance and adult-themed entertainment. Perhaps it is—a bit like how using French words makes things classier. However, to reduce burlesque to "classy stripping" is gravely missing the point.
The 'art of tease' is a big part of Burlesque, but burlesque and striptease are not the same thing. Burlesque dancers are usually women, and Burlesque crowds tend to be comprised primarily of women and mixed couples. Striptease or "stripping" intends to titillate or sexually arouse, whereas 'Burlesque' aims to amuse, surprise, entertain, make people laugh, or even to educate.
If you would like to know a little more about the true comedic/satirical origins of burlesque, read this.
The incorporation of history in the modern burlesque aesthetic is not just to permit ourselves to enjoy sexualised entertainment without feeling like sleazebags (ok maybe a little, but only when that supports a deeper artistic intention). Vintage fidelity is a fantasy gateway. It signals transportation beyond the mundane restraints of time and place, while simultaneously anchoring us in the evolving continuity of our humanity.
It's about the art, not about the decency.
On the other hand, one could say burlesque is easily definable by its habit of ending in a g-string and nipple tassels. Like life, the joke can be different, but in the end, the final punchline is always the same.
Are you ready to decide what authentic burlesque is? Come and see the show for yourself by booking your tickets.
