The art of the send-up

Perhaps you’ve heard the terms “burlesque” or “cabaret” lately and were wondering what they meant and where you can see performances of this type in Madrid.

First a bit of history:

Burlesque is a word which derives from the Spanish burlar, which means to make fun, and refers to a popular theatrical genre which combines, music, comedy and tragedy to achieve a parodic or grotesque effect.

It dates back to the XVIII, but the addition of a new element which characterizes it today- the striptease- happened much later, towards the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th century.

Burlesque actors often wear very elaborate and loud costumes. Special attractions like contortionists or fire breathers may appear as part of the show. The renaissance of new burlesque began in the nineties, and now is reaching its peak.

Cabaret differs in format from burlesque. There is always a master of ceremonies, the MC, and typically performances take place in intimate bars, restaurants or pubs.

Traditionally, both forms are satirical, but cabaret is often of a much more political nature.

In Madrid you can attend performances of this type at ConSentido, a “social space for the erotic,” which organizes various cabaret and theatre events with a decided focus on the erotic. This innovative project joins sexuality, leisure, art and social solidarity and features a gallery space, bar and erotic boutique all under the same roof. You can find it in calle Barco, number 32, in between hip Madrid neighbourhoods Chueca and Malasaña. For more information about their upcoming events, check out their web page www.consentido.org. Come and see the show that one critic has called “completely incorrect and transgressive, really, a spectacle that you cannot afford to miss.”

A few streets away from ConSentido, is the Sala Yasta in the calle Valverde 10 which turns into an “Authentic temple of de rock and burlesque” thanks to the girls from the Viva Las Vegas collective, www.myspace.com/vivalasvegasclub. There you can find Miss Blancanieves, Morty Boop and Lady Dramakuin doing Burlesque performances, Las Vegas style weddings performed by the Reverend R. Talkie and sessions by djs. So are you ready to be a fan of this genre, which mixes the newest and the most traditional elements of theatre to add some spark to your day? Rent apartments in Madrid, and you can see what this movement is all about. If you head back to your flat inspired, you’ll have all the space you need to practice your own burlesque routine…

Tags: Add new tag, madrid burlesque