Why Burlesque and Drag Shows Often Exclude Pole Dancers and Aerialists
While pole dancers and aerialists are often eager to join the world of burlesque and drag shows, these opportunities can be surprisingly rare. Meanwhile, burlesque and drag performers frequently expect prime placement (and solid pay) at pole and aerial events. This disparity comes down to key differences in logistics, costs and cultural norms. Here's a closer look at why this divide exists:
1. Equipment Needs
Pole dancers and aerialists require substantial equipment that venues may not be equipped to handle. Poles, rigs and apparatuses all require adequate ceiling height, structural stability and setup time. While burlesque and drag performers can typically step onstage with minimal setup, pole dancers and aerialists often need specialized gear that’s not always feasible in bar or cabaret settings.
2. Insurance and Liability
Pole dance and aerial performances inherently carry more risk. Even highly skilled performers face potential falls, drops or other mishaps. This makes insurance coverage more complex, often requiring additional event policies, waivers or even on-site medical personnel. For venues unfamiliar with these disciplines, this added layer of responsibility can be a deterrent.
3. Safety and Space Constraints
Pole dancers need appropriate floor space and aerialists require extensive overhead clearance. In tightly packed bar stages or low-ceiling venues often used for burlesque and drag shows, this simply isn’t an option. Additionally, working around unpredictable factors like moving crowds or limited backstage space makes setting up a secure rig or pole even more challenging.
4. Tipping Culture Disparities
Burlesque and drag shows often thrive in tipping environments, where performers actively engage with the audience and receive cash in hand. Pole dance, especially in non-club settings, rarely follows the same tipping culture (which is annoying and we would like this to change). This difference can make venue owners hesitant to pay pole dancers a competitive rate, assuming they won’t generate the same level of audience contribution.
5. Cultural Differences in Performance Norms
Burlesque and drag shows often prioritize comedy, storytelling, or exaggerated personas. While pole and aerial performances can certainly align with these themes, they’re often more technical and physically demanding. This difference in focus can make integration challenging unless the venue is actively seeking variety.
6. Budget Considerations
Aerialists and pole dancers often request higher rates due to the cost of training, equipment, insurance and increased physical risk. Show producers may be less inclined to book these acts if they can secure multiple drag or burlesque performers for the same budget.
7. Misconceptions About Pole Dance
Despite pole's growth as an art form, some venues still view pole dance as strictly exotic entertainment, limiting its perceived value in artistic showcases. Conversely, burlesque and drag have carved out their place in cabaret and variety show settings, making those acts more familiar and easier to book.
8. Perceived "Favor" Mentality
Because pole and aerial events are known for offering diverse performance slots, burlesque and drag performers may assume they are entitled to these opportunities. Conversely, pole dancers and aerialists are often seen as more specialized acts that require specific conditions to perform safely, limiting their invitations to non-pole-centric shows.
Bridging the Gap
To create a more inclusive space for all performance styles, producers and performers can work together to find solutions:
Producers: Consider investing in performers who can provide portable pole, aerial rigs and insurance that allow for safer and easier integration.
Performers: Showcase how pole dance can enhance variety shows by aligning your act with the show's theme, ensuring your piece feels cohesive rather than separate.
With collaboration and understanding, pole dancers, aerialists, burlesque and drag performers can all thrive in the variety show landscape.