A few years ago, I was on the adjudication committee for the Vancouver International Burlesque Festival. It was an invaluable experience and opportunity because I was able to see first hand what the experience of a selection committee looks like. Here are the biggest lessons I learnt about applying to burlesque festivals.
1.) Video Quality Matters
We said that it didn’t, but it definitely came into play. If the lighting is so bright I can’t see your facial expressions or half of your routine is hidden behind an audience member’s head? If the camerawork is shaky or filmed from far away? How can I properly evaluate how awesome you are? I really appreciated the videos that had been filmed in HD where I could clearly see the performer’s performance. Something about having a better quality video definitely suggested professionalism and added a bit of a “wow” factor. A caution however, that it shouldn’t look like a music video. Angles and fades detract from the performance and highlight reels aren’t acceptable.
2.) Be Shiny
I’m not on the Dita Von Teese level. I can’t afford a super showgirl 10 000 rhinestone encrusted anything either, but, there are plenty of good cheats. Plastic rhinestones mixed with swarovskis or sequin fabric can do just as well. Hire a fellow performer to be ingenious for you if you aren’t costume savvy. I saw many robes but I remember the one that had been made out of sequin fabric. Consider the level of costuming you have seen at other festivals and competitions. It is unnecessary to lose points because your costume was lacking. You must make it a costume before I will believe its a costume.
3.) Rule of Three aka You Gotta Get a Gimmick
We received so many applications but the ones that were accepted all had something in common. They were more than just a simple strip. I really want to emphasize that the majority of our applicants were not “bad,” its just that the ones accepted were better. They felt like a total package, they had something more. Its not enough to just be a good dancer. Its not enough to just have a good costume. You need to have at least three really positive things going on. Consider whether you have at LEAST three of the following when developing your acts. If you have more than three, chances are its not just a good act, its a GREAT act!
*Dance Ability/Strip Ability/Stage Presence
*Sex Appeal
*Great Costume
*Comedy/Storyline
*Gimmick
The gimmick is a big one!! A gimmick can be several things: a giant prop, a new and unseen peel, a creative use of a classic burlesque archetype, or even a political message. It can be a magic trick, acrobatic or comedic ability! It can come down to being or doing something that people don’t usually see at a Burlesque show or even in their everyday lives! Remember, however, that a gimmick is still not enough on its own.
Ok Everybody, I hope this helps!! Make sure that before you apply for a festival or a big competition you ask yourself, “What is it that sets this act apart from any others” and spend the extra cash for a nice video and some shiny bits. Having professional anything suggests that you are a professional. I promise it's worth it.
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