Burlesque

Definition

Burlesque is a theatrical form that combines humor, parody, and satire, often featuring exaggerated performances and elements of striptease. Traditionally, it plays with societal norms surrounding gender and sexuality, using comedic exaggeration to challenge and entertain audiences. Burlesque has roots in various performance styles, blending dance, comedy, and music to create a vibrant and engaging spectacle that often critiques cultural standards regarding femininity and masculinity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Burlesque has its origins in 19th-century European theater, where it began as a parody of serious works, gradually evolving into its own distinct performance genre.
2. Modern burlesque often emphasizes body positivity and empowerment, showcasing performers of diverse body types and backgrounds.
3. The revival of burlesque in the late 20th century coincided with the rise of feminist movements, as performers used the art form to reclaim their sexuality and challenge societal norms.
4. Burlesque shows often incorporate elements of audience interaction, blurring the lines between performer and spectator and creating a unique experience.
5. Costuming plays a significant role in burlesque performances; intricate outfits are designed to enhance the visual spectacle while also highlighting themes of sexuality and femininity.

Review Questions

• How does burlesque serve as a form of performance that critiques traditional notions of gender?
  • Burlesque critiques traditional notions of gender by using humor and parody to exaggerate societal expectations surrounding masculinity and femininity. Performers often embody hyperbolic versions of gender roles, which allows them to mock stereotypes while simultaneously challenging the audience's perceptions. This playful approach creates a space where viewers can reflect on their own beliefs about gender identity and expression.
• In what ways does modern burlesque intersect with feminist ideals regarding body image and sexuality?
  • Modern burlesque intersects with feminist ideals by promoting body positivity and celebrating diverse representations of femininity. Performers often reclaim their sexuality through elaborate routines that empower them rather than objectify them. By embracing various body types and defying conventional beauty standards, burlesque acts become platforms for feminist expression, encouraging audiences to appreciate individuality over societal expectations.
• Evaluate the role of audience participation in shaping the experience of burlesque performances and its implications for societal norms about sexuality.
  • Audience participation in burlesque plays a crucial role in shaping the overall experience, creating a dynamic interaction between performers and spectators. This engagement allows for a shared experience that can challenge societal norms surrounding sexuality by fostering an environment of acceptance and celebration. When audience members are invited to respond or interact with performers, it blurs the line between entertainment and community, encouraging conversations about desire, consent, and sexual expression in a more open-minded context.

Related terms

Vaudeville: A theatrical variety show that was popular in the United States from the late 19th century to the early 20th century, featuring a mix of specialty acts including comedians, musicians, dancers, and magicians.

Camp: A style and sensibility that embraces exaggerated aesthetics and self-parody, often celebrating artifice and the unconventional, commonly associated with LGBTQ+ culture.

Feminism: A social and political movement advocating for women's rights and equality, which often intersects with burlesque by challenging traditional gender roles and celebrating female empowerment through performance.