The History of Cross-Gender Performances
Faculty Mentor(s) Name(s)
Amy Pinney
Abstract
In light of recent political agendas, such as the Tennessee Drag Ban and various gender-affirming care and LGBTQ+ bans, the topic of what it means to dress and behave as one’s assigned sex is continuously challenged. In modern times, the idea of cross-gender performances has become widely ridiculed, especially in the political realm. Mostly associated today with the art of drag shows, this form of self-expression has been falsely accused of contributing to the “grooming” and “sexualization” of minors. However, many fail to recognize that cross-gender casting is as intertwined with theatre as it is the birth of it. Starting with roots in Ancient Greece, women were not traditionally allowed in the theatre, therefore men would play the roles of both genders. Throughout history, women were viewed as inferior or too sexual. Similar stances can be recognized globally, such as with the Japanese tradition of Kabuki theatre. Of course, with time, women eventually found their rightful place on the stage. While a man dressed confidently as a woman may seem threatening and widespread to some today, this was the standard some three hundred years ago and beyond. It is important to highlight that theatre is always a reflection of society, and therefore society will always reflect itself in the theatre. Whether that is political or religious turmoil, it will be present in the theatre setting.
Start Date
27-3-2024 4:10 PM
End Date
27-3-2024 4:18 PM
Location
Arts and Sciences 2-72
The History of Cross-Gender Performances
Arts and Sciences 2-72
In light of recent political agendas, such as the Tennessee Drag Ban and various gender-affirming care and LGBTQ+ bans, the topic of what it means to dress and behave as one’s assigned sex is continuously challenged. In modern times, the idea of cross-gender performances has become widely ridiculed, especially in the political realm. Mostly associated today with the art of drag shows, this form of self-expression has been falsely accused of contributing to the “grooming” and “sexualization” of minors. However, many fail to recognize that cross-gender casting is as intertwined with theatre as it is the birth of it. Starting with roots in Ancient Greece, women were not traditionally allowed in the theatre, therefore men would play the roles of both genders. Throughout history, women were viewed as inferior or too sexual. Similar stances can be recognized globally, such as with the Japanese tradition of Kabuki theatre. Of course, with time, women eventually found their rightful place on the stage. While a man dressed confidently as a woman may seem threatening and widespread to some today, this was the standard some three hundred years ago and beyond. It is important to highlight that theatre is always a reflection of society, and therefore society will always reflect itself in the theatre. Whether that is political or religious turmoil, it will be present in the theatre setting.