Three types of burlesque

According to John Kenrick in an online article (www.musicals101.com/burlesque.htm) burlesque originally came about as a form of 'low' entertainment; it appealed to those who could not afford operas or theatre. Its main attraction was sex – women daring to bare their legs in public – but the performers were diverse. Men and women, singers, dancers, jugglers, and even ventriloquists all joined in the fray, often to poke fun at popular musicals and operas of the day.

Contemporary burlesque has evolved from those basic origins into three main categories: cabaret, striptease and traditional burlesque.

Cabaret is epitomised in French chorus line shows like the Moulin Rouge or the Lido where glamour and grace are the main attractions and there is hardly ever a striptease, as most of the dancers appear topless to begin with.

Striptease is also very glamourous. Dita Von Teese is an excellent example of this kind of burlesque: the focus is on the gorgeous and expensive props and costumes, and how well she uses and loses them.

Traditional burlesque is the favourite in the UK. This kind of burlesque is about humourous social satire, whether obvious or not. Each act relies on a story; if the performer strips, it is because the character or the situation requires it.