History of Burlesque Told Through Costumes

Class Description

This class explores the history of Burlesque and Cabaret through forms of costume from the Vaudeville to Neo-Burlesque. Students study the evolution of the art form, modern examples of Neo-Burlesque, old Hollywood Starlets, and the reclamation of the role of women on stage. Students will learn about the controversial fame that came from performing burlesque during Victorian times and how burlesque has grown in popularity and the impact its had in today’s performing arts world. We’ll look at how the intent of burlesque started as a commentary on societal norms and how it became a more risque performance in relation to the costume styling.