When burlesque “ stunts” aren’t worth the risk…

I have seen so many clips on social media on line and seeing the tricks and stunts that performers might be sharing on stage.

There are many MANY performers that are absolutely well equipped, trained and able to do this type of work. And indeed it can be some people’s USP as an artist.

But it’s not for everyone, and in my opinion not necessary. Burlesque has always been about illusion, tease, and connection — not about putting your body on the line for a moment of shock value. But in a world of fast-scrolling social media and highlight reels, it can sometimes feel like you need to go bigger, higher, or more extreme to stand out.

There’s an important distinction between developing skills and taking unnecessary risks. Building strength, flexibility, and technique over time is part of becoming a confident performer. But attempting tricks or “stunts” that feel unsafe, rushed, or outside your current ability is where injury becomes a real possibility — and it’s simply not worth it.

And can I say, doubly not worth it if you are taking gigs that are paying $60.

It’s just not worth the injury.

Because you aren’t just talking about on performance (and one badly paying show!). Remember this can take you out of action for performing and teaching - and it can even take you out of your day job or other paid employment.

Plus, there can be other consequences. If you are performer with injury insurance, make sure you check the level of coverage and any fine print. Because I’ve certainly seen that often coverage doesn’t extend far, isn’t well paid or cover you as a performer if you don’t have the right skills to perform the trick or stunt you injured yourself doing (think of it like driving a forklift without a licence or training)

So there’s a legal and insurance issue that sometimes just isn’t talked about.

At its core, a great burlesque act isn’t about spectacle for spectacle’s sake. A perfectly timed glove peel, a look, or a controlled reveal can be far more captivating. And the burlesque acts and artists that leave an impression usually do so because of the connection they made in the room on the night.

The pressure to push limits often comes from comparison — seeing what others are doing online and feeling like you need to match or top it.

And it’s wonderful to work towards more advanced skills - but make sure you are getting that training, professional guidance and advice on when you are ready to incorporate it into a stage performance. It can be built over time - not as a race!

Most importantly, you don’t need to prove anything to anyone else. Making a compelling act on stage can be done in so many ways. Working like this makes your practice more sustainable and give you career longevity.

Grace

Owner, Miss Kitty’s Meow