Burlesque: the history and a revival

Listen 48:56

Guests: Dustin Wax, Timaree Schmit

The word “burlesque” likely conjure images of seduction and striptease, but the art form began as satire with very little nudity. DUSTIN WAX, director of the Burlesque Hall of Fame in Las Vegas, will walk us through burlesque’s history, from its appearance in ancient Greek theater to its eventual transformation to 80’s pole dancing — and its more classical revival in the 90s. We’ll also be joined by burlesque performer and sex educator TIMAREE SCHMIT, who will tell us why she thinks burlesque is important, relevant, and empowering.

WHYY is your source for fact-based, in-depth journalism and information. As a nonprofit organization, we rely on financial support from readers like you. Please give today.

Want a digest of WHYY’s programs, events & stories? Sign up for our weekly newsletter.

Together we can reach 100% of WHYY’s fiscal year goal