Interview Questions for Contemporary Burlesque

My experience spans both classic and neo-burlesque, offering a unique perspective on the art form’s evolution. Classic burlesque, with its roots in the early 20th century, emphasizes a more theatrical approach, often incorporating comedy, striptease, and elaborate costumes reminiscent of the Golden Age of Hollywood. I’ve performed acts drawing inspiration from classic performers like Gypsy Rose Lee, focusing on the meticulous precision of their routines and the comedic timing inherent in their delivery. Neo-burlesque, on the other hand, is far more diverse. It embraces a wider range of influences, including modern dance, performance art, and social commentary. I’ve explored neo-burlesque through acts that incorporate elements of contemporary dance, theatrical storytelling, and even political satire, allowing for greater personal expression and thematic depth. The difference is palpable; classic burlesque feels like a polished performance, while neo-burlesque is often a more raw and emotionally resonant experience. For instance, one classic act might involve a feather boa and a slow, deliberate reveal, while a neo-burlesque piece might weave a narrative about body image using a mix of movement, spoken word and costume changes.

Contemporary burlesque is a fascinating evolution from its predecessors. It began as a form of variety entertainment in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, characterized by its often risqué comedy, musical numbers, and striptease. However, the repressive social mores of the time ultimately led to its decline. The revival in the late 1990s, often referred to as neo-burlesque, marked a significant departure. It’s not simply a rehash of the past; instead, it’s a conscious reclamation and reimagining of burlesque’s core elements. This modern incarnation emphasizes empowerment, body positivity, and individual expression. Performers are no longer just ‘striptease artists’; they are storytellers, dancers, comedians, and social commentators, using the stage to explore diverse themes and narratives. The evolution is marked by a shift away from the purely visual spectacle of classic burlesque towards a more nuanced and multifaceted art form that challenges societal norms and promotes a more inclusive and body-positive aesthetic. It has become significantly more diverse in terms of body types, ethnicity, gender identity, and artistic styles.

Storytelling is paramount in my burlesque performances. I don’t simply strip; I tell a story through movement, costume, music, and character. For example, in one act, I portray a heartbroken Victorian widow who uses her stripping as a way to reclaim her agency and self-worth after the loss of her husband. The act starts with her in mourning attire, slowly shedding the layers of grief and societal expectations, revealing a powerful and liberated woman underneath. Another act might explore the journey of a woman overcoming societal pressures around her body image. Each element — the music, the costume choices, even the lighting — works together to advance the narrative and create an emotional arc. The audience doesn’t just see a striptease; they are immersed in a complete narrative experience, making the performance more engaging and emotionally resonant.

Developing a burlesque character is a collaborative process that starts with inspiration. This might come from literature, film, historical figures, or even personal experiences. I begin by brainstorming the character’s backstory, personality traits, and motivations. This involves considering their physicality, voice, and mannerisms. Next, I research the era or style that best reflects the character’s essence, allowing me to design an appropriate costume and develop a corresponding movement style. The process is iterative. I may try out different costumes, experiment with movement vocabulary, and refine the character’s personality during rehearsals until I achieve a cohesive and believable performance. For instance, if I’m creating a flapper-era character, I’ll research flapper fashion, music, and social dynamics, ensuring the character embodies the essence of that era. This is a key difference between an effective burlesque performance and one that feels inauthentic.

My greatest strengths lie in my ability to connect with the audience through storytelling and character work. I believe in creating emotionally resonant performances that go beyond the purely visual spectacle of burlesque. I also excel in incorporating a diverse range of artistic elements, from theatrical movement to comedic timing, into my performances. My weakness, which I’m actively working to improve, is sometimes overthinking my performances. I occasionally get caught up in the technical aspects and forget to fully embrace the spontaneity and freedom that burlesque should embody. Finding a balance between meticulous preparation and uninhibited expression is an ongoing learning process.

Stage fright is a common experience for performers. My strategy involves a multifaceted approach. First, meticulous preparation is key. Knowing my act inside and out minimizes unexpected surprises on stage. Second, I use deep breathing exercises and mindfulness techniques before a performance to calm my nerves. I also visualize a successful performance to boost my confidence. Finally, I try to view performance anxiety not as an enemy but as a sign of my passion and commitment. Accepting and channeling the nervous energy into my performance can actually enhance its intensity and emotional impact.

Costume malfunctions are unfortunately part of the risk in burlesque. My approach is proactive. I always have backup costumes and safety pins readily available. I also design my costumes with functionality in mind, ensuring ease of movement and minimizing potential hazards. During a performance, if a malfunction occurs, I incorporate the unexpected element into the act, turning the mishap into an opportunity for improvisation and audience interaction. Quick thinking, a sense of humour, and a connection with my audience are essential tools for handling such unforeseen circumstances gracefully and often even humorously. The goal is to maintain composure and continue the show, converting a potential disaster into a memorable, albeit unplanned, part of the performance.

Improvisation is the lifeblood of contemporary burlesque. It’s about reacting spontaneously to the audience, to the music, even to a wardrobe malfunction! It allows for a unique and unpredictable performance every single time. My approach involves building a strong foundation of character and choreography, but leaving room for playful deviations. For instance, if a song unexpectedly inspires a new pose or interaction with the audience, I’ll embrace it. I might even incorporate audience suggestions, like asking someone to choose an item of clothing to remove next, maintaining the safety and boundaries we’ve established beforehand. The key is to maintain control while appearing unrehearsed; it’s a delicate balance between structured spontaneity and free-form expression.

I practice improvisation by regularly performing with different musical styles and engaging with unexpected situations in rehearsal. This prepares me to handle anything in a live performance – it’s like developing muscle memory for flexibility in my act.

Collaboration is essential in burlesque. I frequently work with costume designers, lighting technicians, musicians, and fellow performers to create a cohesive and impactful show. With costume designers, for example, we’ll discuss the overall theme, character, and desired mood of the act, resulting in a costume that truly embodies the performance. With musicians, we might collaborate on choosing songs that perfectly complement the choreography and overall narrative. Open communication and a shared vision are key. I find that actively listening to other collaborators’ ideas and offering constructive feedback fosters a creative synergy that leads to truly stunning productions.

For example, in one show, I worked closely with a lighting designer to create a dramatic silhouette effect during a specific moment in my act. The collaboration elevated the performance to a level neither of us could have achieved individually.

Audience engagement is crucial. It’s not just about performing *for* an audience, but performing *with* them. I believe in creating a dialogue, a playful exchange of energy. This might involve making eye contact, incorporating audience members into the act (with their consent, of course!), or responding directly to their reactions. I aim to create a space where the audience feels seen and appreciated, part of the storytelling, not just passive observers. Humor is also a vital tool; it helps break down any perceived barriers and makes the experience more inclusive and enjoyable. I find that even a simple smile or wink can greatly enhance the connection with the audience.

For instance, I’ve incorporated audience participation by having them help me choose the next prop or song. It’s a fun way to make them part of the creative process and inject spontaneity into my act. The key is to make it feel natural and playful.

Burlesque techniques are a blend of art, skill, and personality. Teasing involves building anticipation and suspense, often through suggestive movements and gestures without explicit displays of nudity. Posing is the art of using your body to convey emotion, character, and drama. It involves precise control of movement and posture to create compelling visuals. Striptease, a core element of burlesque, is the controlled and artful removal of clothing, but it’s about much more than nudity; it’s about transformation and storytelling, using the act of undressing as a vehicle for expression. It’s less about the removal of garments and more about unveiling aspects of the character.

Each technique requires years of practice to master. For example, teasing involves knowing when to pause, building up the anticipation, using subtle glances and movements to draw the audience in. Posing demands a deep understanding of body language and how to control the energy of the moment. Striptease demands precision, grace, and storytelling; the removal of clothing is merely the medium through which the story unfolds.

Safety and respect are paramount. Before each performance, I ensure I have a clear understanding of the venue’s policies and any audience expectations. I communicate clearly with my audience, setting boundaries and expectations to ensure a comfortable and consensual experience. This includes explicit consent for any audience interaction. Furthermore, I prioritize my own physical and emotional safety, ensuring that my choreography and costumes are appropriate for the venue and the type of performance. I’ve trained myself to observe the crowd to make sure the energy remains respectful and positive throughout the show. If there’s any indication of discomfort, I adapt my performance accordingly.

I always prioritize safe and respectful conduct and take measures to ensure my actions never venture into exploitative or harmful territory. This includes pre-show checks to confirm all props and the stage are safe.

Music is the backbone of a burlesque performance. I’ve worked with a wide range of genres, from classic jazz and swing to contemporary pop, electro-swing, and even classical pieces. The choice of music directly influences the mood and character of the act. A sultry jazz number will evoke a different feeling than an upbeat pop song. I often tailor the music selection to the specific theme or story of my act. The music also guides the pacing and dynamics of the choreography, dictating the energy levels and transitions between movements.

For instance, a powerful ballad might be used to underscore a vulnerable moment in the act, while a playful swing tune could be used for a more flirtatious sequence. It is all about choosing the right melody to match the choreography and emotion expressed.

Costume selection is crucial. The costume isn’t just an accessory; it’s an integral part of the character and storytelling. I work closely with costume designers to ensure the costume enhances the performance, emphasizing specific body parts or movements, and helping to convey the desired mood. The fabrics, colors, and silhouette of the costume all contribute to the overall effect. The costume should be comfortable and functional, allowing for freedom of movement and expression. It’s a collaboration between artistry and practicality.

I consider factors like the lighting, the overall theme of the show, and the specific narrative of my act. For a dramatic, sultry act, I might choose a flowing, dark gown; for a more playful and cheeky number, I might opt for something brighter and more whimsical. The goal is always for the costume to amplify and complement the performance, never overshadowing it.

My approach to makeup and hair for burlesque is all about enhancing my performance and character. It’s not just about looking pretty; it’s about creating a visual story that complements my act. I start by considering the overall theme and aesthetic of my performance. Is it glamorous and vintage? Edgy and modern? Playful and comedic? The chosen style directly dictates my choices.

• Glamorous Vintage: This might involve a strong, sculpted brow, a classic red lip, winged eyeliner, and perhaps a perfectly placed beauty mark. Hair could be styled in victory rolls, pin curls, or a sleek updo. The goal is timeless elegance.

• Edgy and Modern: Here, I might opt for a bold graphic eyeliner, a smoky eye, and perhaps a dramatic lip color. Hair could be styled in a messy bun, a sharp bob, or even incorporate bright unnatural colors to create a more avant-garde look.

• Playful and Comedic: A playful performance might call for exaggerated features – think bright colors, false lashes, and maybe even some quirky props incorporated into the hair or makeup. The idea is to amplify the comedic elements.

Regardless of the style, I prioritize quality products that will last throughout the performance, are long-lasting and smudge-proof, and allow for quick touch-ups if needed. I also ensure that the makeup and hair are comfortable and don’t impede my movement or ability to perform.

Marketing myself as a burlesque performer involves a multifaceted approach. It’s about building a brand and cultivating a strong online presence. I utilize social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook to showcase my performances, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and interact with my audience. High-quality photos and videos are crucial, professionally edited to highlight my unique style and talent.

• Professional Website: A website serves as a central hub for all my information, including performance dates, photos, videos, contact information, and press kit.

• Networking: Attending burlesque shows, festivals, and workshops allows me to connect with other performers, promoters, photographers, and potential collaborators.

• Press Kit: A well-crafted press kit with high-resolution images, a biography, and a performance description is essential for getting media coverage.

• Collaborations: Partnering with other artists, photographers, and businesses can create exciting cross-promotional opportunities.

I also focus on creating a consistent brand image across all platforms, ensuring my online presence reflects my personality and artistic style.

My career goals in contemporary burlesque are ambitious and multifaceted. I aim to continue refining my performance skills, incorporating new techniques and styles to constantly evolve as an artist. I aspire to perform on larger stages, nationally and internationally, reaching wider audiences and building a dedicated fanbase.

• Creative Exploration: I want to push creative boundaries within burlesque, experimenting with different themes, music, and choreography to create unique and memorable performances.

• Mentorship: I’m passionate about supporting and mentoring emerging burlesque performers, sharing my knowledge and experience to help them grow their careers.

• Collaboration: I would love to collaborate with other artists in diverse fields – musicians, visual artists, designers – to create truly interdisciplinary performances.

Ultimately, I want to leave a lasting impact on the contemporary burlesque scene, contributing to its ongoing evolution and celebrating its empowering and expressive nature.

My experience in choreography and directing burlesque performances has been incredibly rewarding. I started by choreographing my own acts, experimenting with movement, storytelling, and character development. This involved breaking down a song into sections, identifying key moments for character shifts, and designing movements to express those emotions and narrative points.

When directing other performers, my approach is collaborative. I work closely with each artist to understand their strengths, preferences, and the specific message they want to convey through their performance. I encourage them to bring their unique personality and style to the piece, providing guidance and support rather than dictating rigid movements. I often use visual aids, such as storyboards or diagrams, to help them visualize the choreography.

For example, when directing a group number for a show with a ‘Hollywood Glamour’ theme, we focused on coordinated movements that emphasized the elegance and sophistication of classic film stars. We worked together on finding the right balance between individual expression and unified movement.

Staying current with trends in contemporary burlesque requires active engagement with the community. I regularly attend shows, workshops, and festivals, both locally and internationally, to see what other performers are doing. This exposure helps me stay inspired and learn new techniques. I also follow burlesque artists, companies, and influencers on social media, paying close attention to their work and artistic evolution. This allows for discovering emerging talent and noticing current styles.

I subscribe to industry publications and online resources specializing in performance arts and burlesque to stay abreast of the latest trends in costume, choreography, and makeup styles. The constant learning and adaptation are essential for remaining relevant and competitive in this dynamic art form.

Adapting my performance for different audiences and venues requires a careful assessment of the context. The key is to understand the expectations and sensitivities of each setting and tailor my performance accordingly. For example, a performance in a small, intimate cabaret will differ significantly from a large-scale stage show at a festival.

• Audience Appropriateness: I might adjust the level of explicitness or suggestive content depending on the audience’s age and expectations. A show at a family-friendly event would need significantly more adaptation than a performance at an adult-only venue.

• Venue Considerations: The stage size, lighting, and sound capabilities will influence the choreography and costume choices. I’ve had to adjust elaborate costumes for smaller stages to allow for better movement.

• Theme Integration: Sometimes the show or venue has an overarching theme. In such cases, I adapt my routine to fit within that narrative context, ensuring harmony with the overall show.

It’s about maintaining the essence of my performance while adjusting the details for optimal impact in each specific environment. Flexibility and adaptability are crucial in burlesque.

I value constructive criticism immensely, seeing it as an opportunity for growth and improvement. When receiving feedback, I actively listen and try to understand the perspective of the person offering it. I ask clarifying questions if I need more information or context. I never take criticism personally; rather, I see it as a tool to help me refine my skills and craft.

I’m not afraid to ask for specific examples. For instance, if someone says my performance lacked energy, I would ask for specific moments in the performance where that was the case so I can address the issue more precisely. Then, I use this feedback to reflect on my performance, identifying areas where I can make adjustments in my choreography, character portrayal, or stage presence.

Ultimately, constructive criticism helps to transform my performance from good to great.

One of the biggest challenges I faced was a wardrobe malfunction during a particularly complex routine involving a quick change. My usually reliable corset clasp unexpectedly sprang open mid-performance, threatening to disrupt the carefully choreographed sequence. Instead of panicking, I instantly improvised. I subtly adjusted my costume, using my trained movement to cover the exposed area, and seamlessly transitioned to a different part of the act. The audience was completely unaware, highlighting the importance of quick thinking, adaptability, and owning the stage even when things go wrong. This experience taught me the invaluable lesson that preparedness coupled with improvisation can turn a potential disaster into a moment of professional prowess.

Intellectual property rights in burlesque are complex, encompassing several areas. Music choices are crucial, and obtaining proper licenses (e.g., through a performance rights organization like ASCAP or BMI) is essential to avoid copyright infringement. Costume designs, especially those that are uniquely created or represent a recognizable style, may benefit from copyright or trademark protection. Furthermore, original choreography should be considered as intellectual property and can be protected through various legal means. It’s also important to understand the rights of photographers and videographers who may capture your performances, ensuring you have agreements in place if you plan to utilize that content. The ethical considerations surrounding imitation vs. inspiration in costume design and choreography also form an important part of this conversation, emphasizing respectful engagement with the artistic traditions of burlesque.

Maintaining physical and mental well-being is paramount in burlesque. Physically, this involves regular strength training to build core strength and flexibility, crucial for demanding routines. I prioritize proper nutrition and hydration, as well as adequate rest to allow my body to recover. Mentally, I practice mindfulness and stress-reducing techniques. I set realistic goals and avoid overworking myself, scheduling downtime for self-care activities like reading or spending time in nature. Building a strong support network of fellow performers and trusted individuals provides crucial emotional support, which is key to navigating the pressures and demands of the profession. It’s a holistic approach that helps prevent burnout and ensures long-term sustainability in this demanding art form.

My experience with lighting and sound is extensive. I’ve worked with everything from intimate cabaret settings with minimal lighting to large-scale stage productions featuring sophisticated technology. Effective lighting dramatically enhances the mood and visual impact of a burlesque performance. Spotlights can highlight specific movements and costumes, while washes of color can create atmosphere. Similarly, sound design plays a crucial role, ranging from carefully selected music that complements the choreography to sound effects that enhance the narrative. I collaborate closely with lighting and sound technicians, communicating my artistic vision to ensure a seamless and effective integration of these elements into the overall performance. This collaborative approach ensures that the technical aspects of the show amplify the artistic expression rather than detract from it.

Inclusivity and accessibility are central to my performances. I strive to showcase diversity in body types, ethnicities, and abilities. My costumes and routines reflect this, avoiding stereotypes and celebrating the beauty of diverse forms of expression. Accessibility considerations include clear communication regarding the performance setting, ensuring the venue is wheelchair-accessible, and offering alternative formats if possible (e.g., descriptive audio for visually impaired patrons). Moreover, proactively addressing any concerns or potential barriers to access, in both the creative process and the performance itself, demonstrates a deep commitment to inclusivity.

The legal and ethical considerations surrounding burlesque performance are multifaceted. Legalities relate to licensing music and ensuring adherence to any censorship or content restrictions imposed by the venue. Ethical considerations include obtaining informed consent for any photography or videography, ensuring fair compensation for all participants, and maintaining professional boundaries with audience members. Respecting the history and artistic traditions of burlesque while also fostering innovation are vital. This requires a careful balance of responsible artistic expression and legal compliance to ensure ethical and sustainable practice within the art form.

My salary expectations for this role depend on several factors including the nature of the engagement (e.g., one-off performance, recurring residency), the duration of the contract, and the responsibilities involved. I am open to discussing a competitive compensation package commensurate with my experience, skills, and the demands of the role. My goal is to arrive at a fair and equitable agreement that reflects the value I bring to the position and the success of the overall project.