The mere mention of the word burlesque and a virtual Pandora’s box pops open. Originally, burlesque was an exaggerated spoof on classic theatre pieces — a Spamalot of sorts. The thing that makes burlesque unique is the added stripping element. Not the stuff of mirror-walled clubs with brass poles frequented by bachelor parties, burlesque ‘tease’ is slow and seductive and never goes further than ending in pasties and lingerie.
This kind of theatrical parody began as far back as 16th century Italy. It became a popular form of entertainment juxtaposing serious and comic elements throughout Europe in the 18th century.
Thanks to Lydia Thompson and her British Blondes, burlesque found its way to the US in the 1860s. In the 20s and 30s, the risqué variety shows were called Follies. Then, performers like Gypsy Rose Lee combined both wit and strip. In the 40s and 50s, they were known as Girlie Shows, and even got booted out of NY for their bad-mannered behavior. Dixie Evans, the ‘Marilyn Monroe of burlesque’ and curator of the Burlesque Hall of Fame performed then. Eventually the teasing, minus the drama, worked its way into modern strip clubs.
While it may have veered off the classy track, the neoburlesque movement of the 90s sought to bring back burlesque sophistication. Ami Goodheart's Dutch Weismanns' Follies revue in NY and Michelle Carr's Velvet Hammer burlesque troupe in LA arose out of nostalgia for the glamorous past. They reinstated small format theatre performances that combine acting and striptease. Dubbed by the press the ‘Queen’ of this movement, Dita Von Teese emerged with unique character-driven shows — even going en pointe. Slowly, the suggestive stage style returned to from where it came, exploding on the London scene a few years ago.
So, why is neo-burlesque on the rise in Barcelona now? Everyone has his or her own opinion. Mistress Basia, well-known dominatrix and tattoo salon owner, as well as one-half of the Barcelona burlesque duo the Chili Cats attributes it to Barcelona “perpetually lagging behind the rest.” Her burlesque partner in crime, Dirty-boop claims, “Stripping has become overdone. People are tired and want something different. They’re looking for something that is beautiful and celebrates women.” The current crisis also makes for the increasing popularity as people go to escape the droning credit crunch talk.
4/1/09 1:27 AM
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acts in late september early october
Posted by britt August, 29 2009 04:53:30