Famous Burlesque Shows Throughout History

 Burlesque has a long and storied history since its inception in the 1800's. Fans flocked to theaters to take in the burlesque shows not only for their witty story lines, but also for the chance to see scantily dressed women. Three of the most famous burlesque shows of the past are Bluebeard, Ruy Blas and the Blasé Roué and Star and Garter.

Bluebeard is one of the most famous burlesque shows in history. The show was performed to much acclaim by Lydia Thompson and her British Blondes troupe both in New York City, NY and in London, England. Bluebeard was written by H.B. Farnie and the roles of the men in the show were all portrayed by suggestively clad women. This casting was quite a change from the staid male led casts of other shows that were popular during this time.

Another of the most famous burlesque shows in history is Ruy Blas and the Blasé Roué. Ruy Blas and the Blasé Roué opened in London on September 21, 1889 and was written by Herbert F. Clark and A.C. Torr. Audiences loved the show because of its slightly off color humor along with its famous dancers. Another famous feature of this show was a caricature of Henry Irving that was written in to the show, much to Mr. Irving's dismay.

Star and Garter is an additional burlesque show that truly captured the glory of the burlesque era. Star and Garter was performed in the US starting in 1942. This show was staged at the famed Minsky's Burlesque, a location famous for its shows and also its propensity for being raided by the police. Star and Garter was also important to the history of burlesque as it featured one of the most famous burlesque performers of all time, Gypsy Rose Lee.

Many thought that the rich history of burlesque would be lost after the art form suffered a drop in popularity in the 1950's. Thankfully, with the emergence of Neo-burlesque, audiences are rediscovering the wonder and glory of burlesque and enjoying shows at new venues like the Crazy Horse in Paris.