Exploring Queer Theory in “The Balcony”
Disciplines
Arts and Humanities | Dramatic Literature, Criticism and Theory | Theatre and Performance Studies
Abstract (300 words maximum)
Jean Genet, in his play The Balcony, has constructed a link between sex and power, harboring a relationship of sexual exploration and internal authority. The play challenges illusion, innate and acquired status, and sexuality, with the dominant explanation being that theatricality and queer theory is the inception. As I delve into underlying subjects and fine detail ingrained into the play, queer theory will evidently become centralized. Production elements that I plan to encompass within a mock production of this play, will reinforce Genet’s idea of sexuality and power. Through my personal reading of both the play, examining interviews of the playwright, and researching analyses on “The Balcony”, my presentation will interpret how theatrical and production elements of lighting, set design, and costume, accentuate the thematic concepts of queer theory. Using my research and observations, I will not only demonstrate the association between attained authority and sex, but encourage others to explore that relationship among themselves.
Academic department under which the project should be listed
COTA - Theatre and Performance Studies
Primary Investigator (PI) Name
Dr. Thomas Fish
Exploring Queer Theory in “The Balcony”
Jean Genet, in his play The Balcony, has constructed a link between sex and power, harboring a relationship of sexual exploration and internal authority. The play challenges illusion, innate and acquired status, and sexuality, with the dominant explanation being that theatricality and queer theory is the inception. As I delve into underlying subjects and fine detail ingrained into the play, queer theory will evidently become centralized. Production elements that I plan to encompass within a mock production of this play, will reinforce Genet’s idea of sexuality and power. Through my personal reading of both the play, examining interviews of the playwright, and researching analyses on “The Balcony”, my presentation will interpret how theatrical and production elements of lighting, set design, and costume, accentuate the thematic concepts of queer theory. Using my research and observations, I will not only demonstrate the association between attained authority and sex, but encourage others to explore that relationship among themselves.