How to Be Burlesque Dancer - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Feb 1, 2021 / 4 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

Professional Organizations

FAQ

Links

Burlesque dancing is an art form that is becoming increasingly popular, as it has been gaining activity in the last few years. This type of dance combines elements of comedy, striptease, and theatricality in order to create a unique and captivating performance. The popularity of burlesque dancing is due to its boldness and variety, as it allows dancers to express themselves through their own individual style.

the costumes and music used in burlesque performances are often vibrant and exciting, furthering the appeal of this art form. As a result of these elements, burlesque dancing has become a great way for dancers to express their creativity and to connect with their audience. In addition, burlesque provides a safe space for people to explore their sexuality, identity, and self-expression without judgement or fear.

This has allowed burlesque to become an important part of modern culture, as it provides an outlet for people to explore the boundaries of their self-expression.

Steps How to Become

Take Burlesque Dance Classes. If you want to become a burlesque dancer, start by taking classes. Look for classes in your area or online.
Learn Different Styles of Movement. Learn different styles of movement such as burlesque, belly dancing, and pole dancing. Learn different types of choreography, as well as how to use props such as feather boas and fans.
Practice Regularly. It is important to practice regularly in order to become a great burlesque dancer. Set aside time each week to practice and perfect your moves.
Find or Create a Costume. Find or create a burlesque costume that you feel comfortable in. Choose pieces that flatter your figure and express your unique style.
Create a Routine. Once you have mastered the basics, create your own routine. Incorporate different styles of movement and props in order to create a unique and captivating performance.
Perform. Once you have mastered the basics and created your own routine, its time to perform. Find local burlesque shows and events and audition to be a part of them.

Becoming an efficient and ideal burlesque dancer requires a great deal of dedication and hard work. It starts with developing a good foundation of basic dance techniques, such as jazz, ballet, and hip-hop. Then, one must take the time to learn the specific moves and techniques that make up burlesque dancing.

This includes mastering the art of tease, developing a creative and unique choreography, and learning how to captivate an audience. Along with perfecting ones technique, it is also important to have a strong sense of confidence and self-expression. Lastly, putting in the time to practice and perfecting ones performance is essential for success.

With dedication and hard work, any aspiring burlesque dancer can become an ideal and efficient performer.

You may want to check Pointe Dancer, Belly Dancer, and Line Dancer for alternative.

Job Description

Perform burlesque-style dance routines on stage
Create and choreograph burlesque dance routines
Design and create costumes for each performance
Engage with audiences during performances
Work with other performers in a burlesque troupe
Collaborate with musicians and other artists to create unique burlesque performances
Educate others on the history and culture of burlesque
Maintain proper health and safety regulations during performances
Practice regularly to stay in top physical condition
Stay up-to-date on burlesque trends and techniques

Skills and Competencies to Have

Flexibility
Musicality
Strength
Endurance
Stage Presence
Coordination
Creativity
Poise
Expression
Charisma
Body Awareness
Showmanship
Characterization
Choreography
Costume and Makeup Design

The most important skill for a burlesque dancer to have is a combination of physical agility, grace, and creativity. Physical agility is important for executing the complex dance moves of burlesque, as well as for performing for extended periods of time. Grace is essential for creating a captivating performance, as well as for connecting with the audience.

Finally, creativity is key for coming up with unique choreography and routines that make each dancer stand out from the crowd. All of these skills work together to make a successful burlesque dancer, and when combined with the right attitude and stage presence, the dancer can truly shine.

Musical Theater Dancer, Tap Dancer, and Ballet Dancer are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

How did you become interested in burlesque dancing?
What techniques have you used to refine your burlesque dancing style?
How do you see burlesque dancing as an art form?
What challenges have you faced while performing burlesque?
Describe a memorable experience youve had while performing burlesque.
What do you think makes a great burlesque performance?
How do you prepare for a burlesque dance performance?
What are some of the most important skills and qualities for a successful burlesque dancer?
How do you approach creating a new burlesque routine?
What advice would you give to someone who wants to start burlesque dancing?

Common Tools in Industry

Feather Boas. Used to add a dramatic flair to dance performances (eg: used in showgirl performances).
Heels. Specialized footwear designed to enhance the dancer's ability to perform intricate and stylized movements (eg: stilettos or pumps).
Corsets. A tight-fitting garment that helps define the dancer's silhouette (eg: bodice or bustier).
Dance Props. Items used to enhance the dancer's performance such as hats, fans, and parasols (eg: tambourines or canes).
Costumes. Specialized clothing designed to bring the dancer's performance to life (eg: sparkly dresses or sequined bodysuits).
Makeup. Used to create a dramatic look on stage (eg: false eyelashes or glitter lipstick).

Professional Organizations to Know

National Association of Burlesque Entertainers (NABE)
International Burlesque Circus (IBC)
The Burlesque Hall of Fame
The Exotic Dancers League (EDL)
Burlesque Beauties
International Academy of Burlesque Arts
Burlesque Bazaar
The Burlesque Alliance
Burlesque Performers Association
The Burlesque Academy

We also have Dance Recruiter, Professional Dancer, and Street Dancer jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Burlesque. A theatrical performance combining elements of comedy, satire and striptease, often presented in a cabaret-style setting.
Cabaret. A type of entertainment featuring music, dance, and other forms of performance in a nightclub or restaurant.
Striptease. A form of dance in which a performer gradually removes their clothing, often to music.
Choreography. The art of creating and arranging dances.
Costume Design. The process of creating costumes for use in theatrical performances and other forms of entertainment.
Stage Makeup. The application of makeup to enhance the appearance of performers on stage.
Prop Design. The process of creating props for use in theatrical performances and other forms of entertainment.
Showmanship. The ability to entertain an audience in a theatrical setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Burlesque Dancer?

A Burlesque Dancer is a performer who entertains through the art of striptease, theatrical dance, comedy, and singing.

What types of costumes are worn by Burlesque Dancers?

Burlesque Dancers typically wear elaborate costumes that can include corsets, gowns, lingerie, stockings, feathers, and more.

Are Burlesque Dancers professional dancers?

Yes, Burlesque Dancers are professional dancers who have trained and perfected their craft.

What are some of the skills of a Burlesque Dancer?

Burlesque Dancers must have excellent coordination, flexibility, and creativity to perform their art. They must also have strong stage presence and be able to captivate an audience.

How long has Burlesque Dancing been around?

Burlesque Dancing has been around since the 19th century and has continued to be performed to this day.

Web Resources

[Burlesque dancer] - The Portal to Texas History texashistory.unt.edu
Burlesque beauties | Houghton Library Blog - blogs.harvard.edu blogs.harvard.edu
The art of burlesque The Flagler College Gargoyle gargoyle.flagler.edu