“It is not so serious” : reflecting the complex intersections of burlesque, body image and societal norms

Abstract

The objective of this thesis is to explore the complex intersections of burlesque, body image and societal norms. These elements are examined by analysing literature and empirical data based on interviews. Burlesque is considered to be body positive and feminist but through its history, and in part even nowadays, it has also been labeled as obscene, sexist and racist. This research aims to find out how burlesque may function as a body positive and feminist art form. The purpose is to understand and analyse how today’s hobbyists experience and navigate the sometimes controversial public image of burlesque in their personal and social lives. The research question is: In what ways burlesque may influence body images and everyday lives of Finnish middle-aged women in relation to the varied public image of burlesque?

The thesis is qualitative, phenomenological-hermeneutic research. The data was collected using thematic semi-structured interviews. The interviewees consisted of three middle-aged (40-60 years old) Finnish women who participate in recreational burlesque.

According to the data analysis, both recreational burlesque and performing burlesque have improved the participants’ body image. The findings show that burlesque has affected their whole life by enhancing creativity and giving performing skills, for instance at work. The connection with other burlesquers in the community and also with the audience is important to them. The participants have received mixed feedback on their hobby and even felt shame but they seem to know how to navigate these moments in social situations.

Currently this seems to be the first master’s thesis that explores the body image of middle-aged women who participate in recreational burlesque classes in Finland.