Burlesque: Difference between revisions

The word "burlesque" is derived from a Romance language term meaning "to send up". '''Burlesque''' theatre originated in the UK and US in the 19th century as a form of broad satire and parody aimed at low to middle class audiences, poking fun at the "highbrow" entertainments and social activities of the upper classes. During the Victorian period, it became increasingly common for roles to be played by [[Ms. Fanservice|attractive women]], dress more "daringly" than Victorian convention normally permitted. The women quickly became the main attraction, and costumes [[Fan Service|became more revealing]] to the extent permitted by local laws. As in [[Vaudeville]] and Music Hall settings, music and variety acts became staples of Burlesque shows. The tone often became [[Getting Crap Past the Radar|suggestive, even shading toward bawdy]], although outright vulgarity and obscenity were avoided; as the intent was to spoof and titillate, not offend. While Vaudeville tended to be dominated by individual acts; Burlesque shows depended on troupes travelling a circuit. It was generally looked down on as "low" humour by Vaudeville performers, and a last resort for the "washed up"; but many performed in Burlesque troops under pseudonyms, as the work was typically more steady and reliable.