The old copycat post
A lot of new artists ask the question - How do I make sure I’m not copying someone else? Or how do I stop someone copying me.
Here is what I’ve learned in my decade in the business
DON'T STRESS
There can be some similarities in burlesque. I've seen beautiful leopard costumes on numerous performers. There is not a burlesque show that doesn’t have someone in a panel skirt or with a pair of feather fans. I say this often, but it’s true. When you do classic striptease there are often some things that we are all drawn to or an era we are seeking to recreate. I've seen bump and grind acts with panel skirts a million times over. But at the end of the day, the performer is who makes the act unique. It’s not just about the costume.
DON’T BE A DIVA
We could all take time to remember to be a bit kinder to other artists. Obviously straight up copying someone's act isn't okay. But you don’t own a colour, the song "Harlem Nocturne" or a feather fan dance. Some performers may be super well known for their particular ensembles or interpretations, which may give you some guidance on when to steer clear. But ultimately if you are someone that rocks a Sally Rand fan dance, honey you aren’t the only one out there and you need to let go of your ego.
CHECK OUT YOUTUBE AND GOOGLE
You can do some really good searching now, looking at song choices or costume ideas. Because so much of what we do is broadcasted globally. It's not hard to work out if someone has developed a similar idea to you, or where your point of difference could be. A bit of homework goes a long way.
SOURCE INSPIRATION FROM FAR AND WIDE
I don't recommend watching other performers to get inspiration. You can watch them and marvel, sure! But we all move so differently, that you can't ever fully emulate someone else. And why would you want to? You want to create something a little different or innovative, right? So source your inspiration from other places rather than trying to imitate someone else. Here’s where I often start:
Music: It’s where I generally begin. Remember not to get stuck on just 'burlesque' soundtracks. There are so many other areas you can source from
Cinema: Not just old musicals. See a range of pictures from old Marilyn Monroe features, to the mainstream to art house. You never know what gets the creative juices flowing.
Art galleries and museums: Always great sources of costuming, patterns, colours, history
Pantone colours: A colour can really help you set yourself apart.
GET A MENTOR
Share some playlists, share ideas or rehearse in front of each other. Especially if you are starting out and a bit low on confidence, it can be really beneficial to have someone to 'bounce' ideas off or to help you when you might be stuck. It could be a friend and done in an informal way. Or you might want to approach a performer to formally mentor you. Having a second set of eyes can be really useful.
If you do your homework and be as creative as possible, you can be confident with the art that you create.