Thread: Ancient Burlesque Heroine - Theodora

I've been reading up on ancient world burlesque including the plays of Aristophanes and recently I came across Theodora in a documentary about Classical Myths.

Theodora was a real woman - a Byzantine Empress of huge influence in the 6th century. It is written that her early life was spent in a brothel but also went on to play the comedienne in raunchy burlesque plays (classical burlesques).

Ultimately, she went on to marry Emperor Justinian I and is credited as the first feminist having been responsible for campiagning to give Byzantine women equal (almost) rights as men - a strange cultural quirk that other nations were shocked at when they visited the Empire.

Amusingly enough she was made in to a Saint too and her day is 14th November.

How fascinating is that?

Theodora (6th century) - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

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You are an oracle of knowledge kittie, i shall def be using that little gem next time a feminist kicks off on me!

Originally Posted by Cherryfox

You are an oracle of knowledge kittie, i shall def be using that little gem next time a feminist kicks off on me!

'Oracle' - indeed :lol:

More obsessively curious....

And with beautiful synergy, the popular Victorian opera Theodora (though only based on the real Theodora in the loosest sense) was one of the most risque costumed of its era! Lots of bejewelled underwear When you see those beautiful postcards they are usually of, or inspired by, either Theodora or Aida.

So you see, she was even making waves in the 19th century and the first burlesques! (If only sartorially for the most part)

It's a particular passion of mine, as I do collect these costumes as and when I find them!

Incidentally, this (http://www.parrishrelics.com/lj/theodorabernhardt.jpg) ensemble still exists!

I have seen it in London. Actually, I see it frequently. And they *still* won't let me have it!


Good topic Kitty


Vicky Bxx

oooh - thanks for that Vicky

Is that on Sarah Bernhardt in the images?

Let's gather on 14th November!

We could say in a way that she's the 'patron saint of burlesquers'! Although she was canonised as Orthodox Church - does that make a difference, does anyone know?

It is indeed! I can take you to the depository of all this wonderousness if you should so desire ...

I think it would be permissable... though we would need to convert first!

Vicky xx

I'm in, sounds like a good plan . .
patron saint of burlesque day !!

what should we do to honour her ??

drink something really ridiculous like cider and black
in our bloomers and bejeweled frillies . .

x x

Originally Posted by RedSarah

I'm in, sounds like a good plan . .
patron saint of burlesque day !!

what should we do to honour her ??

drink something really ridiculous like cider and black
in our bloomers and bejeweled frillies . .

x x

Perfect!

Very interesting .... and im not being sarky

x

wow!

i love reading about all of the ancient dancers and performers and the different styles. looking at the costumes and influences.

i remember when i was small loving the old films with showgirls, arabian dancers with the veils, gypsy dancers, flamenco dancers, the story of jezabelle, tribal dancers...etc etc etc... all so exoctic and beautiful and brave.