A burlesque is a literary, dramatic or musical work intended to cause laughter by caricaturing the manner or spirit of serious works, or by ludicrous treatment of their subjects.[1] The word derives from the Italian burlesco, which, in turn, is derived from the Italian burla – a joke, ridicule or mockery. (copied from Wikipedia)
Burlesque is self-expression; a statement; story-telling; performance art. It often incorporates comedy and striptease.
Within burlesque, some common styles you may come across include Classic (American), Neo-Classic, Boylesque, Draglesque, Nerdlesque, Gorelesque, etc. From glitz and glam to wacky and weird, there’s a burlesque flavor for everybody!
Featured photos from various Des Moines area burlesuqe shows shot by Amanda Pichler Photography, Danny Does Pix, Earl Powell Pictures, Wicked Imagery.