What is the Difference Between Burlesque and Cabaret

Burlesque and cabaret are two popular entertainment forms with many similarities. Both involve music and dance, and live entertainment performed on a stage. They also use exaggerated costumes to attract the eyes of the audience. Although they share many similarities, burlesque is not the same as cabaret.

The key difference between burlesque and cabaret is their content. Burlesque has satirical, comedic acts with striptease, while cabaret has a variety of performances like music and dance in an intimate setting.

CONTENTS

1. Overview and Key Difference
2. What is Burlesque  
3. What is Cabaret
4. Similarities – Burlesque and Cabaret
5. Burlesque vs Cabaret in Tabular Form
6. Summary – Burlesque vs Cabaret
7. FAQ: Burlesque and Cabaret

What is Burlesque?

Burlesque is a form of entertainment that’s a blend of satire, dance, and theater. The term burlesque comes from the Italian “burlesco,” which stems from “burla,” meaning mockery or jest. Burlesque is a playful and comedic stage performance that includes dirty jokes, bawdy songs, slapstick humor, and risqué dances. Performers in burlesque shows usually wear extravagant costumes with feathers, sequins, and corsets. This makes the performances visually striking. Burlesque can poke fun at serious topics or classical works.

One of the main elements of modern burlesque is the striptease, where performers creatively and teasingly remove their clothing. This is done in a humorous and exaggerated manner. It adds to the overall comedic feel of the show. The shows are usually performed at theaters, music halls, and venues with separate stages for performances.

What is Cabaret?

Cabaret is a form of entertainment that features a mix of music, dance, drama, and comedy. It became popular in the early 20th century, especially in places like France and Germany. Unlike larger theatrical productions, cabaret shows are usually performed in small, intimate venues like clubs, casinos, or restaurants. This creates a close connection between the performers and the audience.

The acts in a cabaret show can vary widely. You might see a singer belting out soulful tunes, a dancer performing an intricate routine, or a comedian telling jokes that make everyone laugh. The performances can range from light-hearted and fun to deep and thought-provoking. They often reflect social issues and current events.

Similarities Between Burlesque and Cabaret

1. Burlesque and cabaret are forms of live entertainment performed on stage.
2. Both involve dance, music, and theatrical performances.
3. Performers often wear exaggerated costumes.

Difference Between Burlesque and Cabaret

Definition

1. Burlesque is a comedic and theatrical form of entertainment that often includes satirical performances and striptease.
2. Cabaret is a type of intimate entertainment with a mix of music, dance, comedy, and drama.

Venue

1. Burlesque shows are usually performed in theaters, music halls, and venues with separate stages for performances.
2. Cabaret shows are usually performed in small, intimate venues like clubs, casinos, or restaurants.

Performance

1. Burlesque often includes striptease.
2. Cabaret tends to have more sophisticated and elegant performances.

Nature

1. Burlesque focuses on satire and comedy.
2. Cabaret includes a variety of acts such as music, dance, drama, and comedy.

The following table summarizes the difference between burlesque and cabaret.

Summary – Burlesque vs Cabaret

Both burlesque and cabaret are forms of live entertainment performed on stage. The key difference between burlesque and cabaret is that burlesque has satirical, comedic acts with striptease, while cabaret has a variety of performances like music and dance in an intimate setting.

FAQ: Burlesque and Cabaret

1. Are cabaret and burlesque the same thing?

• Cabaret and burlesque are not the same. Cabaret has a variety of acts like music, dance, and comedy, while burlesque focuses on satirical and comedic performances, often with striptease.

2. What happens at a burlesque show?

• At a burlesque show, performers present satirical and comedic acts. These often involve striptease and elaborate costumes. Burlesque shows include dirty jokes, bawdy songs, slapstick humor, and risqué dances.

3. What is the difference between Showgirls and burlesque?

• Showgirls perform elaborate dance routines in glamorous costumes, while burlesque performers focus on comedic, satirical acts often involving striptease.

4. What are cabaret girls called?

• A cabaret girl is a female performer who entertains in a cabaret show, often singing, dancing, and engaging with the audience. Cabaret girls are often called “showgirls” or “cabaret performers.”

5. What is the meaning of adult cabaret?

• Adult cabaret has mature or provocative content. In other words, it has themes and performances meant for an adult audience. Shows may involve suggestive humor, sensual dance, or explicit material.

Reference:

1. “What is Burlesque?” Study.com.
2. “Cabaret.” Wikipedia. Wikipedia Foundation.

Image Courtesy:

1. “Cabaret Theatre Theater Free Photo” (CC0) via NeedPix
2. “Bon-Ton Burlesquers2” By H.C. Miner Litho. Co. – Library of Congress (Public Domain) via Commons Wikimedia

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