Is Burlesque a Real Place?

Burlesque is not a real place; rather, it refers to a theatrical entertainment style that originated in the 19th century. It is characterized by parody comedy and often provocative performances. However, during the late 1960s, it was indeed a real place where I worked in venues such as the Globe Burlesque in Atlantic City, New Jersey, and the Trocadero Burlesque in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

The Burlesque Experience in the Late 1960s

At that time, burlesque was more than just a form of entertainment; it was a variety show where a mix of music, dance, and striptease performances celebrated body positivity and sensuality. My role was to open the show as a singer and the straight man, introducing the women and facilitating comedy routines. The strippers would perform their routines one by one, while the comedic elements were inserted to provide a lull in ramping up the performance.

A Comedic Side to Burlesque

The comedic pieces were a significant part of the show, with many routines being based on classic comedic teamwork. For instance, I would arrive on stage to praise each of the women before introducing them to the audience. During my performances, I would sing a couple of songs to provide a brief respite between the comic pieces, adding that the songs and comedy routines were merely temporary breaks so the strippers could change their outfits.

The Strippers and Their Leader

One of the leaders of the group of strippers I worked with was Virginia “Ding-Dong” Bell, a notable figure in the burlesque scene. She headed a troupe of dancers who would perform their stripper acts in a lively and entertaining manner.

Despite the excitement and energy of these venues, burlesque as I knew it seemed to fade away by the middle of the 1970s. The period of my involvement, around 1969 when I entered the American Army, marked the end of this era.

The comedic routines we performed were not unique to burlesque. They had roots in classic comedy, such as the comedic team of Bud Abbott and Lou Costello. One of their most famous routines was "Who's On First," a sketch that is still referenced and cherished by comedy enthusiasts to this day.

Conclusion

While burlesque is no longer a prominent form of entertainment in the United States, it left a lasting legacy in the world of theater and comedy. By understanding its historical significance and the personal experiences shared, we can better appreciate the cultural contributions of burlesque to American entertainment.