Easy Ways to Show Support to Local Burlesque Artists and Support The Arts

The alluring world of burlesque thrives on captivating performances, dazzling costumes, and the fierce confidence of its performers. But behind the glitz and glam lies a dedicated industry filled with passionate artists, producers, and venues. Like all industries, the burlesque community can only survive if supported and it’s certainly worth investing in just to ogle the glitz, glamour and talents of it’s performers. By supporting your local burlesque scene, you give opportunities and jobs to those within the industry as well as a chance for smaller artists to find their feet in the industry. Although performers such as Dita Von Teese will never worry about their shows not selling out, supporting local artists gives smaller creatives a start so their dreams can grow and florish. So how can you, the enthusiastic audience member, show your love and contribute to the ongoing success of burlesque? Here are some ways you can support the burlesque industry:

Be an Engaged Audience:

• Attend Live Shows: Nothing beats the energy of a live burlesque performance. Purchase tickets to shows at local venues, burlesque festivals, or even online streaming events.
• Tip the Performers (where appropriate): Tipping is a vital source of income for burlesque artists. Bring cash for tipping during the show, or consider using tipping apps offered by some venues. It’s worth noting that not all burlesque performances will have an opportunity for tips. Tips can be a cultural concept too, so only do it in places with a tipping culture. I’ve never seen local burlesque shows in Australia have a chance for tipping, but my US friends have said tipping is done at their local shows.
• Show Your Appreciation: Applause, cheers, and enthusiastic reactions are the fuel that keeps performers going. Let them know you’re enjoying the show!
• Spread the Word: Share your positive experiences with burlesque on social media, recommend shows to friends, and help raise awareness about this vibrant art form.
• Grab some Merch: Some burlesque artists offer unique and wonderful merchandise, although it’s not required, sometimes just grabbing something cute and small can really support an artist.

Support the Burlesque Community:

• Follow Burlesque Performers: Many performers have active social media pages where you can follow their journey, learn about upcoming shows, and even purchase merchandise. Find your favourite performers on social media and show them love on the platform.
• Support Burlesque Businesses: Several online stores and independent designers specialize in burlesque costumes, accessories, and props. Consider shopping from these businesses to support their creative endeavors. I’d also recommend finding Facebook groups for small burlesque groups which can often have heaps of ways to support the arts available.
• Attend Workshops & Classes: Many burlesque performers offer workshops and classes on topics like costuming, makeup, and performance techniques. Enrollment fees directly support the artist and help you develop your own burlesque skills. Try searching through Facebook to find your local ones or do a Google search for your local areas.

Advocate for Burlesque:

• Challenge Stigmas: Burlesque is often misunderstood. Educate others about the empowering and artistic nature of this performance art form.
• Support Body Positivity: Burlesque celebrates all body types and promotes self-love. Be a voice for inclusivity and challenge unrealistic beauty standards.
• Respect the Performers: Burlesque is a performance, not an invitation for harassment. Treat performers with respect and be mindful of venue rules.
• Spark interest of Burlesque Performances: If you know the owners or managers of small venues such as bars and performance halls and venues, see if you can inspire them to put on a local burlesque show.

By taking these steps, you can become a valuable asset to the burlesque industry. Your support empowers performers, keeps venues running, and ensures that the art of burlesque continues to captivate audiences for years to come. Remember, every ticket purchase, social media share, and kind word contributes to the thriving world of burlesque!

Note: This is not a sponsored post. All opinions and thoughts expressed are solely my own and not influenced in any way. There are no affiliate links and I do not benefit from any link clicks or purchases made.