Burlesque, an art form rooted in satire, wit, and sensual performance, has a rich and vibrant history that spans several centuries. Its origins can be traced back to the 17th century in Italy, where Commedia dell'arte troupes would incorporate humorous and exaggerated acts into their performances. Burlesque as we know it today, however, emerged in the late 19th century in Victorian England. It was a form of theatrical entertainment that parodied high society and cultural norms through bawdy humor, risqué performances, and extravagant costumes. The popularity of burlesque quickly spread to the United States, particularly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, where it became a staple of vaudeville shows and variety theaters.