Spectacles of Agency and Desire: Dance Histories and the Burlesque Stage

Woman Critics

Ann Corio mentioned the following 3 names as the lead critics for burlesque during the revival period in an interview with the Los Angeles Times in 1967: Edith Oliver of The New Yorker, Judith Crist of the Old Herald Tribune, and Frances Herridge of the Post. These critics stated in differing articles that they were never encouraged to go to burlesque shows as youth but now they know what they were missing.  They were unaware that burlesque performers could appeal to both women and men. 
 
Judith Crist applauds Corio's ability in This Was Burlesque to create an all-inclusive show that pairs strip-teasers with humor in a flawless manner. Majority of the article touches on the male members of the cast. Women are briefly mentioned with respect to their "lovely legs" and undressing ability. Christ also challenges the name of Corio's show This Was Burlesque. She discusses that burlesque is no longer something of the past but something succeeding in the present. 
 
Women reviews are rare but very helpful in changing the audience demographic. When women can read another woman's opinion on a burlesque show they are going to feel more comfortable attending themselves. Also when a woman reads the women critics' work, there is a level of trust the reader feels. Corio knew that female writers were a great form of publicity and were able to give the shows and business a positive boost. She often name dropped women critics in interviews in order to steer women readers to their reviews. 



 
Works Cited

Crist, J. “’This was burlesque' still is, despite move.” Rev. of This Was Burlesque, by Ann Corio. Los Angeles Times (1923-Current File) 18 Mar. 1965. ProQuest. Web. 2 Dec. 2015.

Coe, R. L. “Ann, burlesque---stripped for action.” Los Angeles Times (1923-Current File) 19 Dec. 1967. ProQuest. Web. 2 Dec. 2015.

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