Burlesque: From Shadows to Spotlight – A Journey Through History
At first glance, burlesque may look like glitter, rhinestones, and feathers—but behind the sparkle lies a powerful story of rebellion, reinvention, and empowerment. In this article, we’ll take you through the history of burlesque: from its Victorian-era origins to the vaudeville golden age, through mid-century glamour, and into the modern neo-burlesque revival.
Whether you’re curious about what is burlesque, researching iconic performers like Gypsy Rose Lee and Dita Von Teese, or wondering how burlesque thrives today, this timeline will give you the full picture.
What Is Burlesque?
At its core, burlesque is about satire and sensuality—turning social norms on their head through comedy, parody, music, and striptease. The word itself comes from the Italian burla, meaning joke or mockery. From the very beginning, burlesque wasn’t just about entertainment—it was about challenging expectations with wit and a wink.
👉 Curious to try it yourself? Check out our Chicago burlesque classes for a taste of this art form today.
Burlesque Origins: Victorian England
The origins of burlesque trace back to the 19th century, when performers like Lydia Thompson and the British Blondes shocked buttoned-up audiences by parodying operas, plays, and Shakespeare. Their shows mixed clever satire with a daring display of ankles (scandalous at the time!)—and audiences couldn’t get enough.
By the late 1800s, burlesque crossed the Atlantic, quickly finding a home in America’s theaters.
Burlesque in the Vaudeville Era
During vaudeville’s heyday (1890s–1930s), burlesque shows featured dancers, comedians, magicians, and singers. This was the golden era of burlesque, when striptease evolved into an art form.
One of the most famous names in the history of burlesque is Gypsy Rose Lee, who revolutionized striptease with humor and storytelling. She proved that burlesque wasn’t just risqué—it was clever, magnetic, and unforgettable.
👉 Want to see modern performers channel this same spirit? Explore our burlesque shows in Chicago.
Mid-Century Glamour & Controversy
By the 1940s–60s, burlesque shifted toward glamour and striptease. Pin-up icons and stars like Blaze Starr and Tempest Storm dazzled audiences with charisma and sensuality.
But as cinema and television grew, live burlesque shows faced censorship and competition. Still, burlesque survived—because it thrives in the shadows, ready to adapt.
The Neo-Burlesque Revival
Fast forward to the 1990s: burlesque exploded back onto the scene with the neo-burlesque movement. This revival emphasized body positivity, inclusivity, and creative freedom.
Modern icons like Dita Von Teese brought burlesque back into the mainstream spotlight, while performers worldwide created shows that were artistic, political, and deeply personal.
Today, the modern burlesque movement stretches across cities from New York to Tokyo—and, of course, thrives in Chicago.
👉 Planning a night out? Book a burlesque bachelorette party in Chicago and experience the revival yourself.
Why the History of Burlesque Still Matters
Burlesque is more than tassels and tease—it’s empowerment. Every era shows us that burlesque has always challenged conventions, celebrated diversity, and reclaimed the stage for bodies of every shape, size, and story.
From satire to seduction, from Victorian origins to modern revival, the history of burlesque is a reminder: performance is power.
Discover Burlesque in Chicago Today
Inspired by this journey? Burlesque isn’t just history—it’s happening now.
- Take a burlesque class in Chicago and discover your confidence.
- Hire burlesque entertainment for private events.
- Experience live burlesque shows in Chicago.
✨ Whether you’re a fan, a performer, or just curious, the stage is waiting.
Burlesque Hall of Fame
Dita Von Teese Official Site
Online Burlesque Classes Client Testimonials
“I flew into Chicago for the weekend and decided to book one of Annie’s burlesque classes — and I swear, it changed something in me. It wasn’t just a class, it was an initiation. I left feeling radiant, powerful, and deeply in love with my body again. If you’re even considering burlesque classes in Chicago, don’t hesitate. Annie creates pure magic.” — Celeste M., Los Angeles
“Every session felt like a homecoming. I didn’t realize how much I’d abandoned myself until I came back into my body.” — Rachel T.
Read 23+ 5-Star Google Reviews
Based in Chicago.
Available for performance and Online Burlesque Classes worldwide
✨ Seen on stages from Anchorage to Munich.
Thousands of women served.
