According to author Stephen Hull, in America's Cities of Sin,"the plain truth is that “The Block” is about as vicious and lawless an area as it is possible to find in this country. Crime has increased and although police headquarters are within earshot of the infamous strip, prostitution, violence, and drugs are rampant. Having started out as nearly three whole blocks of "friendly" burlesque entertainment, the Block has narrowed down to one block and is slowly deteriorating. The Block has transformed, physically and morally, over the years. This is perhaps what some people refer to as "the good ol' days." Check out a clip of a traditional Burlesque act starring Baltimore's Queen of Burlesque and previous owner of the 2 O'Clock Club, Blaze Starr: The overall atmosphere on the Block (in the 1940s, 50s, & 60s) was safe, friendly, and entertaining. The somewhat innocent nature of these shows was also reflected in the surrounding neighborhood. An average show was about three hours long and included performances by a headlining burlesque girl, several secondary girls, a house singer, and stand-up comedians. A thousand people filled the Gayety orchestra seats, balcony, and boxes. Anyone who spent even a week in Baltimore knew about the Block and enjoyed its variety of entertainment. The block was well known internationally due to word of mouth throughout WWII. Margie Hart, Valerie Parks, Blaze Starr, Red Skeleton, Jackie Gleason, and Rags Ragland were some of the best. For nearly six decades, clubs like the Gayety Theater brought Baltimore some of the most exceptional burlesque talents and comedians. Baltimore's block was once home to the seductive art of burlesque dancing.