bur·lesque
Pronunciation:
..(ˌ)bər-ˈlesk..
Function: noun Etymology:
from French – burlesque, adjective, comic, droll; from Italian – burlesco; from Spanish – burla, joke
Date: 1667
1 : a literary or dramatic work that seeks to ridicule by means of grotesque exaggeration or comic imitation
2 : mockery usually by caricature
3 : theatrical entertainment of a broadly humorous often earthy character consisting of short turns, comic skits, and sometimes striptease acts
The Valley Burlesque Society was founded in June of 2008 by Amanda Allure and Joie de Vivre. These two adventurous ladies wanted to bring the fun and excitement of burlesque and variety to their home town, rather than have to drive for hours to see anything like it.
In that spirit, the VBS was formed to foster an environment where variety and Vaudeville style entertainment was not just welcomed, but was the main bill of fare.
To date, Valley Burlesque Society productions have been host to a lovely array of striptease acts, ranging from silly and clever, to sublime, as well as acts that dazzle the audience with magic, juggling, music, comedy, fire-eating and more.
Shows are planned approximately every three months, and there is always room for something new, or something different.
The VBS is meant to be a collective of artists and performers coming together to put on a great show in a cooperative setting.
Variety acts can consist of (but aren’t limited to):
- Musicians (unusual instruments or small ensembles are a plus)
- Dancers (from ballroom to flamenco, bellydance to ballet, traditional dances of all kind are great)
- Jugglers
- Fire spinners (for outdoor shows, unless you have glowy toys!)
- Acrobats (depending on space available)
- Contortionists
- Magicians
- Sideshow freaks (sticking pins through your skin? glass eater? whaddaya got?)
- The list goes on… Do you do something interesting? Do you know someone who does?
If you are a variety performer who understands the true meaning of burlesque – good clean fun with a spicy or unexpected twist, humor with an edge, beauty and artistic freedom – contact the VBS at VBSFresno@comcast.net. There’s a stage for you!
