Everyone loves a good performance, right? Well, the performing arts has long been a safer place for the LGBTQ+ community, even though it is hardly perfect and full of stereotypes. Many people think that all male ballet dancers are gay, for example, and I happen to know dozens who are not.
It is still nearly impossible to find representation of trans or bisexual people in theatre, and gay women are too often narrowly represented in terms of stereotypes. Things though are certainly better in opera, ballet, theatre, and other performing arts, then they might be elsewhere.
It's lovely to see so many regional theatres opening their seasons in the middle of Pride Month. It is in regional theatre that so many of our LGBTQ+ sisters and brothers across the country are able to be themselves and perfect their craft. Don't get me wrong. Broadway is a wonderful exhibit of commercial theatre, but those small 99-seat theatres across the country reach some many people in those little places where there might not be any other opportunity.
Speaking of Broadway, how wonderful that the Tony Awards came last night, right in the middle on Pride Month. Hosted by queer superstar Ariana DeBose for the third consecutive year and featuring a number of high-profile LGBTQ+ stars and creatives. There was even a moment that brought me to tears - the acceptance speech by openly gay Jonathan Groff. "My family knew the life-saving power of fanning the flame of a young person's passion without judgment… I walk through life with an open heart because you let me know that I could."
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