Burlesque artist Lola Lesoleil. (Photo by Kevin O'Connell.)

This past weekend, Charlotte played host to The Great Southern Exposure — an internationally recognized, one-night pageant that showcases and celebrates the nostalgic art of burlesque.

And yes, folks, burlesque is an art. Contrary to popular belief, it’s not “just like stripping.” Although burlesque performers do partially disrobe as a part of their act, that’s not the central point of the performance — which can include comedy, singing, juggling and the like.

The annual Great Southern Exposure is produced by local burlesque “queen” Big Mamma D, and it invites performers from around the world to compete for a series of coveted awards. At this year’s event, two African American performers were bestowed honors — which for many is an odd occurrence since black people aren’t usually associated with burlesque.

Which begs the question: Why don’t you see more African Americans on stage delving into the art form?

Well, to get to the bottom of this and many other quandaries, we tracked down one of this weekend’s winning sisters — the Atlanta-based artist known only as Lola Lesoleil — and she offered her uncut perspective.

1. African Americans aren’t exactly known for being burlesque artists — why do you think that is?

Lola Lesoleil: Burlesque derives its history from minstrel shows, variety, and vaudeville. What was “In Living Color,” “The Chapelle Show,” or even “The Muppet Show,” if not modern burlesque? I say Moms Mabley, Eddie Murphy or RuPaul are burlesque artists relative to their audience. If you're addressing the burlesque stripping (which was introduced to burlesque as a gimmick), it's hard to say why there are not as many black performers. I think it's similar to other forms of alternative entertainment where fewer of us participate — as a genre's sample size shrinks, so does our representation. I also believe lack of exposure (no pun intended) or apprehension may contribute. Getting down to brass tacks — entertaining by removal of clothing or spectacle before an audience is not for everyone.

2. Why and how did you get started performing burlesque?

I've been a performer all my life — tap dancing as a kid, piano, classical violin/viola, high school theater geek, salsa dancing. But when I went to Las Vegas some years ago and saw the floor show at Bally's, I was knocked out by the pageantry and elaborate costumes — and the headdresses! In 2006 or so, I took in a Dames Aflame show in Atlanta. It was riveting; in an intimate venue, they re-ignited the glitzed wonderment I experienced in Vegas. The only thought in my mind after the show was: "Must have sequins and an audience!" After a detour through pole dancing, I caught a Blast Of Burlesque show in 2009 where one of the performers, Talloolah Love, and I had a friend in common, so we all started chatting. Talloolah mentioned the ABC's and 123's of Burlesque classes taught by Syrens of the South. Perfect! Around that time, I'd started feeling this side of 35, and heavily weighed by a recent work promotion. I needed a creative outlet to balance my stress, and I was intrigued by the artful tease that's the hallmark of burlesque. Creating costumes and routines and involving myself in the alternative arts scene is a comfortable distance from my daily life, and a welcomed release.

3. What has been the reaction of your family and friends?

Initially, my mom was very concerned my performance life and work could collide to my detriment. I was equally wary, so in my student showcase, I didn't go down to pasties, and I warned the few friends in attendance not to tag me if they took pictures. Having a stage name helps maintain the wall. Maybe I'm naively less concerned now. So far, the friends who know are wholly supportive, and not in the least bit surprised. And mom (who sometimes comes to the shows) is my No. 1 fan who sees burlesque as just the next phase for her performing kid.

4. Black people have a pretty heinous past when it comes to sexual exploitation. Do you ever dwell on these notions when you perform?

LOL! Heavens no. I can only control what Lola does — not what other people think or how they perceive me. My intention is to create a performance that I would enjoy as an audience member. This is not to say I am not aware of said notions, but if I were to allow our exploitations to be the albatross around my neck, how would I fly above them? One must understand the difference between using that history as a ground versus a burden.

5. Future plans for your burlesque career?

Since I enjoy traveling, there are events in Paris and London I'd like to experience. But the pinnacle, the Burlesque Hall of Fame, is on my top to-do list. And of course, this side of the pond, there's the New York, Vancouver, and New Orleans festivals, not to mention Southern Fried Burlesque Fest in my own backyard. The Legends (ladies who've been performing for 40+ decades) are inspiration. Good Lord willing and the creek don't rise, I hope to continue this art as long as I can make fringe shake.

For more information about Lola, visit her Facebook page. And for information about burlesque in Charlotte, visit www.bigmammasproductions.com.

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