Burlesque
Burlesque is, at its heart, theatrical parody, meant to create laughter by mocking serious topics. These shows are often musical in nature, with bawdy themes and comedy, extravagant costumes, and crossdressing. There are three different schools of burlesque, all equally popular.
Travesty burlesque shows are musical plays, featuring operatic pieces, popular songs, or original scores. The plots of the shows are farcical, parodying popular theater tropes. Crossdressing and genderbending are popular aspects, with actors often in some variety of drag. Puns, rhymes, riddles, and a focus on literary elements are a large part of these shows, and are aimed at middle and upper class audiences with high degrees of literacy.
Extravaganza burlesque shows focus on group dancing, short skits, fantastical and magical effects, and grand and elaborate set pieces. Less focus is placed on the comedy and scripts. Extravaganzas often feature pantomime and ballet aspects as well. These shows are geared towards the middle classes, although anyone can enjoy them.
Cabaret burlesques are variety shows. Individual acts can include such things as acrobatics, juggling, singing, comedians, striptease, magicians, and small skits. A good cabaret will have a large selection of acts to choose to create the program. Emphasis is placed on spectacle, danger, and sexuality. Cabaret tends to draw upper and middle class crowds.
Participants
Most notably, the Bardic and Performing Artisans Guild provides many of the performers for burlesque shows, as does the Confidantes Guild. Many burlesque theaters also have connections with the Tailors Guild, the Artisans Guild, and the Woodworkers Guild to provide the elaborate costumes and sets for the shows.
Important Locations