The above documentary got sifted today and reminded me of seeing the White Elephant Burlesque Society last year at the TNE. At the time I remember being annoyed and ashamed at the reactions some people seemed to have to the larger dancers that were performing. How people could be so distracted from the grace and moxie of burlesque by something so trivial wass beyond me- if anything, the performance was even more spectacular given the bravery of the dancers in exhibiting themselves for a society that seems to refuse to believe that beauty can come with a BMI over 17.
This disgust can’t be about legitimate sexual attraction (or lack thereof) – if that were the case, it should be impossible for a heterosexual woman to enjoy burlesque. (As a heterosexual woman, I can attest to the fact that not wanting to sleep with the dancers certainly doesn’t prevent me from appreciating the dance.) No, I think the disgust is based more upon bullying- wanting to feel better about oneself by demeaning others; or upon the worry that one’s friends will mistake artistic interest with sexual lust.
Feel physically attracted to whomever you are attracted to- I’m not saying that you should change (or even that it is possible to change) that. If you like heroin-addict skinny, that is your business. But remember that your preferences are your own, and no one else cares. To each their own. Live and let live.
But regardless of your level of interest, be respectful. This isn’t elementary school, you callow cretins.
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