THET110NotesNovember 26, 2012LGBT Theater- Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender- Before words associated with “classes” of homosexuality and before homosexuality wasgiven scientific classification:o They were dandies (and gallants) – sophisticated, outspoken men of impeccable style- Oscar Wildeo Irish born playwrighto Married with 2 childreno Scandalized by affair with a younger man made publico Put on trial and jailed for proclivities – “sodomite”- Plays often included “dandy” characterso The Importanceo Noted as somewhere autobiographicalo “Bunbury” – British slang for a “gay” brothelo “There is something not right about that person. I hope he is okay.”o Early 20th century, American psychiatric Association classified homosexuality as a mental illnesso Homosexual activity also still a punishable crime in many areas- “The Glass Menagerie” by Tennessee Williamso Stories about unspoken, gay men- Gay Rights Movemento Seeking equality, freedomo Stonewall Rights – NY 1969- Theater responded with powerful, politically charged work- “Out” gay characters no longer hiding; no longer seen as ill perverted- “The Boys in the Band”- Separate but simultaneous journeys:- Black Gay Theatero Part of political, fiery black arts movemento Led by James Baldwino Plays often depicted double-minority struggles- Lesbian Theater- Aids crisis in the 1980so 1970s rare cancer – Gay Related Immune Deficiency (GRID)o Renamed AIDS (1982)o Untreated epidemico Mainly talked about in gay community but it affected everyone- “The Normal Heart” – Larry Kramero Largely autobiographical, focusing on AIDS crisis- “Angels in America” – Tony Kushner- 90s – AIDS intertwined with mainstream stories- “Rent” – Jonathon Larson- Fight for equal
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