Burlesque  

From The Art and Popular Culture Encyclopedia

Revision as of 15:16, 3 June 2009

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burlesque (genre), burlesque (literary), burla

1. a derisive art form that mocks by imitation; a parody
2. a variety adult entertainment show, usually including titillation such as striptease, most common from the 1880s to the 1930s.

Synonyms

• lampoon
• travesty

History

Burlesque is a direct descendant of the Commedia dell'arte where principal characters would carry a "burle"—a stick with a padded end—with which they would slap the other players for comic effect (the origin of "slapstick" comedy). Masques would also contain "zani"—acrobats and tumblers giving the term "zany" for frenetic burlesque acts. The Commedia dell'arte was the source for almost all modern entertainment (ballet, puppetry, opera, pageant, comedy stand-up, satire, pantomime, strip-tease, erotic tableau and mime amongst others).

With its origins in nineteenth century music hall entertainments and vaudeville, in the early twentieth century burlesque emerged as a populist blend of satire, performance art, and adult entertainment, that featured strip tease and broad comedy acts that derived their name from the low comedy aspects of the literary genre known as burlesque.

In burlesque, performers, usually female, often create elaborate sets with lush, colorful costumes, mood-appropriate music, and dramatic lighting, and may even include novelty acts, such as fire-breathing or demonstrations of unusual flexibility, to enhance the impact of their performance.

Put simply, burlesque means "imitation"—to satirize or parody. Burlesque is a style of live entertainment that encompasses pastiche, parody, and wit. The genre traditionally encompasses a variety of acts such as dancing girls, chanson singers, comedians, mime artists, and strip tease artistes, all satirical and with a saucy edge. The strip tease element of burlesque became subject to extensive local legislation, leading to a theatrical form that titillated without falling foul of censors.