DList Magazine Fall "Fashion" Issue 2015 | Page 24

BURLESCO Written by Gagan Kaur I Photos by POC Photo I Costumes Picture Designed by Danial Webster. Burlesque could almost be considered the “black sheep” of the dance family. It visualizes chicanery, parodies, and a sense of mockery. The act dates back to the 1800’s, but sparked an interest in western history in the 1950’s. Burlesque is derived from the Italian word “burlesco” that translates into "joke" or "mockery." Lily Verlaine and Jasper McCann are the epitome of artistic burlesque innovation, producing shows for the last 10 years.They started off doing four performances a year, and now have progressed into 36 shows a year with three major productions. To say they are hardworking is an understatement for these two, possessing an elegant tone and a drive to change performance art in Seattle.