A Genderplay beyond the binary

A feminist ethnographic analysis on interpretations of gender in Finnish burlesque

Kirjoittajat

• Salli-Sofia Ritola Jyväskylän yliopisto https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9356-909X

Avainsanat:

burleski, sukupuoliroolit, performanssi, representaatio, maskuliinisuus, naiseus

Abstrakti

This article analyses the parodic and (self-)ironic, non-verbal and kinetic means that are used to communicate the critical framing of the paradox of using mainstream gendered imagery in Finnish burlesque art. My theoretical lens follows Rosalind Gill’s theory on resexualisation of women’s bodies from being the object of the critical male gaze to "owning" the gaze. I extend Gill’s theorisation also to male and non-binary bodies and how the sexuality of these bodies is redefined onstage, as they are usually not seen as the objects of heteronormative sexual fantasies. I examine the deconstruction of gender stereotypes in burlesque art through the exaggeration, parody, and (self-)irony associated with burlesque, and how these manifest themselves in performances in the form of physical appearance, gendered mannerisms, and clothing. This research provides a significant contribution to global burlesque studies by examining the political and gendered aspects of burlesque art in Finland. It emphasizes political consciousness and critiques societal power structures, leading to a more inclusive and politically nuanced understanding of burlesque. Additionally, it extends the analysis of the deeply gendered nature of burlesque to include men and other genders, examining gender distribution within the field and highlighting the breaking of gender roles through various social and cultural practices.