4 Burlesque Dancer Interview Questions and Answers

Introduction

This question evaluates your creativity and ability to engage the audience, which are essential skills for a burlesque performer.

How to answer

• Discuss your creative process for developing a character
• Explain how you draw inspiration from various sources, such as music, fashion, or storytelling
• Describe how you ensure that your character resonates with the audience
• Share specific examples of characters you have created in the past
• Mention how you incorporate feedback and performance experiences into character development

What not to say

• Claiming that you don’t have a specific process for character creation
• Focusing solely on physical appearance without mentioning personality or backstory
• Neglecting to discuss audience engagement
• Providing vague examples without details

Example answer

“I create my characters by merging elements from classic cinema and contemporary pop culture. For my last performance, I developed a character inspired by silent film stars, adding modern twists that connected with younger audiences. I drew on comedic timing and dramatic flair to engage the crowd, which resulted in enthusiastic feedback and a standing ovation.”

Introduction

This question assesses your resilience and problem-solving skills, crucial for live performance settings where unexpected issues may arise.

How to answer

• Use the STAR method to structure your response
• Clearly outline the challenge you faced during the performance
• Describe the steps you took to address the situation
• Highlight any support you received from your team or fellow performers
• Share the outcome and what you learned from the experience

What not to say

• Downplaying the difficulty of the situation
• Blaming others for the challenge without taking responsibility
• Failing to mention how you resolved the issue
• Ignoring the learning aspect of the experience

Example answer

“During a performance in Toronto, my costume malfunctioned mid-act. Using my improvisational skills, I turned it into a comedic moment, engaging the audience with humor while I adjusted. The audience loved the spontaneity, and it became one of the highlights of the show. This taught me the importance of adaptability and keeping a positive attitude in unexpected situations.”

Introduction

This question evaluates your adaptability and improvisation skills, which are crucial in live performance settings where unexpected situations can arise.

How to answer

• Use the STAR method to structure your response, focusing on the Situation, Task, Action, and Result.
• Clearly describe the circumstances that led to the need for adaptation.
• Explain how you assessed the situation and made quick decisions.
• Detail the actions you took to modify your routine and maintain audience engagement.
• Share the outcome and any positive feedback received from the audience or peers.

What not to say

• Blaming technical difficulties without offering a solution.
• Focusing too much on the negative aspects of the experience.
• Not providing specific details about your actions or decisions.
• Failing to highlight the audience's reaction or the performance's success.

Example answer

“During a performance at the Cape Town Burlesque Festival, the music suddenly stopped due to a technical glitch. I quickly transitioned into a spoken word piece that highlighted the theme of my act, engaging the audience with humor and charisma. The crowd responded enthusiastically, and the performance ended up being one of the highlights of the night, demonstrating my ability to adapt and keep the energy high.”

Introduction

This question assesses your ability to receive and implement constructive criticism, which is essential for continuous improvement in the performing arts.

How to answer

• Discuss your process for gathering feedback, such as audience reactions, peer reviews, or self-assessment.
• Provide specific examples of feedback you've received and how you acted on it.
• Explain how you balance feedback with your artistic vision.
• Share any measurable improvements or changes that resulted from incorporating feedback.
• Highlight your commitment to growth as a performer.

What not to say

• Ignoring feedback or dismissing it as unhelpful.
• Focusing only on positive feedback and not discussing areas for improvement.
• Not providing concrete examples of how feedback influenced your work.
• Claiming that you do not need feedback since you feel confident in your abilities.

Example answer

“After a recent show, a fellow performer suggested I increase my audience interaction during the act. I took this to heart and incorporated more direct engagement and humor into my next performance. The result was a noticeable increase in audience participation and positive feedback on social media, highlighting the importance of being open to constructive criticism.”

Introduction

This question helps gauge your creativity, performance skills, and the ability to connect with the audience, which are crucial for a headliner burlesque performer.

How to answer

• Choose a specific performance that highlights your unique style or a significant achievement.
• Explain the concept behind the performance and how you executed it.
• Discuss the audience's reaction and any feedback you received.
• Share any challenges you overcame during the performance.
• Reflect on what this performance taught you about yourself as an artist.

What not to say

• Providing a vague description of a performance without specific details.
• Focusing solely on technical aspects without mentioning audience engagement.
• Failing to acknowledge the collaborative effort of your team (if applicable).
• Not sharing personal feelings or experiences related to the performance.

Example answer

“One performance I'm particularly proud of was my 'Cherry Blossom' routine at a festival in Tokyo. I created a beautiful mix of traditional Japanese dance and modern burlesque, incorporating delicate fan work and flowing fabrics. The audience was mesmerized, and I received an overwhelming response, including a standing ovation. This experience taught me the power of cultural storytelling and the importance of connecting with the audience emotionally.”

Introduction

This question assesses your creative process, planning skills, and ability to execute a performance, which are essential for a headliner.

How to answer

• Outline your brainstorming process for themes and concepts.
• Describe how you select music and choreography that fits the act.
• Discuss your costume design and how it enhances the performance.
• Explain your rehearsal process, including how you incorporate feedback.
• Mention any collaboration with other performers or artists during preparation.

What not to say

• Implying that preparation is not important or that you rely solely on spontaneity.
• Not mentioning the importance of music selection or choreography.
• Failing to discuss the role of costumes and visuals in your act.
• Overlooking the importance of audience connection in your preparation.

Example answer

“When preparing a new act, I start with brainstorming ideas based on themes that resonate with me. For instance, for my recent act 'Tokyo Nights,' I chose music that embodies the vibrant nightlife of the city. I collaborated with a costume designer to create a stunning outfit that reflected the theme. My rehearsal process includes performing in front of trusted peers to gather feedback, ensuring that every element from choreography to audience interaction is polished and engaging. This thorough preparation ensures I can deliver a captivating performance.”

Introduction

This question is essential for understanding your artistic vision and how you translate that into choreography, which is a crucial skill for a burlesque choreographer.

How to answer

• Outline the initial inspiration for the routine, including music selection and themes.
• Discuss how you incorporate both storytelling and technical elements into your choreography.
• Explain how you experiment with movements and styles to create a unique performance.
• Detail how you adapt routines based on the performers’ strengths and audience feedback.
• Mention any collaboration with other artists, including costume designers or musicians, that enhances the routine.

What not to say

• Providing a vague or generic description of your process.
• Focusing solely on technical aspects without mentioning creativity or storytelling.
• Claiming to have a fixed process without room for adaptation or improvisation.
• Not discussing how you engage with performers and their interpretations.

Example answer

“My creative process starts with selecting a piece of music that resonates with me. For instance, in my recent routine for a gala, I chose a jazz piece that evoked a vintage feel. I then developed a storyline around empowerment and confidence. I experimented with different movements, blending classic burlesque with modern dance, and involved my performers in the process, encouraging them to bring their interpretations. Collaborating with a costume designer also helped enhance the visual storytelling, resulting in a performance that truly engaged the audience.”

Introduction

This question assesses your ability to accept feedback and adapt your work, which is vital in a collaborative environment like burlesque choreography.

How to answer

• Emphasize your openness to feedback and the value you place on collaboration.
• Share specific examples of when you received feedback and how you integrated it into your choreography.
• Discuss how you maintain communication with performers to ensure they feel comfortable sharing their thoughts.
• Highlight the importance of balancing your vision with the performers’ interpretations.
• Reflect on how feedback has helped you grow as a choreographer.

What not to say

• Expressing defensiveness or unwillingness to adapt your choreography.
• Failing to provide specific examples of how feedback has influenced your work.
• Indicating that you don't seek input from others.
• Neglecting to mention the importance of team dynamics in your work.

Example answer

“I believe constructive criticism is essential for growth. For instance, during a recent production, a performer suggested a different approach to a key transition. I listened carefully and incorporated her ideas, which not only improved the flow but also empowered her as a collaborator. I always encourage open communication, as it creates a supportive environment where everyone can share their insights. This approach helps me refine my choreography and ultimately leads to a stronger performance.”