Burlesque the Original Art

A really cool subject in my opinion is Burlesque, "The Original Art of Striptease." It has nothing to do with sex, strippers, or any type of smut. Burlesque is in many ways the same build as vaudeville. Burlesque was born of the original circus, minstrel shows, honky-tonks, and dance-halls. Burlesque is made up of legitimate musicians artist and actors along with attractive women performing without any nudity.

American Burlesque grew as men weaknesses for the glamour and beauty of women evolved. The first respectful Burlesque show was by Michael Leavitt whom also gave Burlesque its definition. His show was called the Rentz-Santly Novelty and Burlesque Compound. He came up with burlesque to incorporate lady minstrel shows, vaudeville and musical parody.

The history and tradition of Burlesque is so rich and detailed. Take some time out and maybe do a little reading, you may find it cool and a good read as well as pictures can be found in Burlesque Legendary Stars of the State by Jane Biggeman, which brings to light the original spirit of this one of a kind art form, through history account, interviews, and photographs.