The Rich History of Burlesque Revealed

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As burlesque dancing begins to gain mainstream popularity, there are many people who still are unsure what it is all about. For those who are interested in learning some fun skills, without the stress of public performance, POLESTARS Burlesque has the answer!

But first, what is burlesque? It is an art form is best described as a combination of striptease, comedy and exuding sexual confidence, not just in the burlesque performance, but in everyday life. Burlesque is not about stereotypical beauty, but relies on the performers attitude and her projection of herself and her charms to the audience.

While modern burlesque is often incorrectly seen as a euphemism for seedy strip clubs and underground dealings, it is actually a very old, very popular form of entertainment that began in the 1840s.

Burlesque was used by working class performers as a way to mock upper class traditions, social habits and cultural and political fashions. Most performances were spoofs of operas, Shakespearean plays and other classic literature and drama.

The performances relied on mocking, irreverent humour and played on the audience desire for laughter and lust. Due to the naughty nature of the costumes, burlesque usually targeted working class men, however as word spread, it drew a wider audience, including some women, who were keen to witness this socially taboo trend.

As time went on, burlesque became more risque. When the Depression hit hard, people were looking for different forms of distraction. Sally Rand revolutionised the industry with her nude fan dancing. As her biographer noted, she gave a whole generation something to think about other than unemployment and breadlines.

However, the art was not destined to last forever and began its decline in the 1950s when films became increasingly violent and sexual and live burlesque was no longer relevant. By the 1960s, the art was virtually obsolete. Between the feminist movement, the Cold War, hippies, drugs and pornography, classic burlesque was viewed as either too oppressive of women or too tame.

These days, burlesque has started to regain popularity. In fact, the Pussycat Dolls began as burlesque group before beginning their recording career.

POLESTARS, the world's leading pole dancing school, are currently teaching modern burlesque classes which involve striptease (no nudity involved!), lap dance and elements of classical burlesque. To discover this fascinating art for yourself, visit www.polestars.net for information on how to book a class!

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