Burlesque: Just a bunch of slags?

Burlesque is linked to the type of entertainment that originated the term “slapstick comedy”, the word itself means “imitation” or parody. So no, it isn’t just some stripper taking her togs off.

Dita Von Teese, or Heather Sweet, is one of the most well renowned modern day burlesque dancers. Her shows include elaborate sets and often incorporate props and different characters. She is not only known for her profession, but also for her iconic fashion status as a promoter of the full 1940’s glamour look, including perfectly pristine makeup and corsetry.

A few months ago I mentioned to a friend that I admired Dita Von Teese. My friend was thoroughly disgusted upon seeing the book that Miss Von Teese had published and asked “so what does she do then… she’s just a slut?”

Alas, my dear friend, there is much more to the art of Burlesque than meets the eye. The shows are well choreographed, with more than a slight element of kitsch, and it is vital for the dancers to be supple with good grace and stamina. Returning to Miss Von Teese, she is trained as a professional ballet dancer which provides her with the right muscle

tone for her act and some skills which she incorporates into her act, such as going en pointe.

Another aspect of Burlesque is the costuming. The dancers wear stunningly elaborate costumes based around corsetry and with a vintage showgirl look. Miss V-T studied historic clothing in college and trained as a costume designer. She frequently attends big-name fashion shows and has modelled for the likes of Moschino and Jean Paul Gaultier. Dita has appeared in Vanity Fair, Vogue, Elle and international copies of nearly every fashion magazine.

So, in my opinion, Burlesque is most definitely not just a bunch of slags. It is quite an art form incorporating elements of dance, drama, poise and a sense of rhythm.

And as for Miss Von Teese, well, being a trained ballerina, actress, model, costume designer and self-styled fashion icon known the world over, I very much doubt that she is, as my friend said, “just a slut”.

But is this enough to sway you?

Sally Sears-Black