GFADAF EP12 - "Dominated By Homosexuals" (Correcting the Record in "Jazz Dance")

Feb 9, 2023

A podcast explores the controversy surrounding the quote attributed to Gene Kelly, claiming that the dance industry is 'dominated by homosexuals.' The episode debunks the quote's origins and explores Kelly's views on masculinity in dance. It also delves into the impact of social stigma, bullying, and the changing acceptance of male dancers and LGBTQ rights. The podcast also touches on tap dance history, toxic masculinity, and the use of descriptors like 'Manly' and 'Affeminate' in popular culture.

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Introduction

00:00 • 3min

Perceived Feminization of Dance and Concerns about Homosexuality in Jazz Dance

03:12 • 4min

Bullying, Controversy, and Masculinity in Dance

07:00 • 22min

Exploring Toxic Masculinity, Defending an Author, and Patreon Support

28:31 • 3min

Tap Dance, Gene Kelly, and Amateur Competitions

31:17 • 4min

Exploring Descriptors and Appropriation: Manly, Affeminate, and 'Woke'

34:53 • 10min

If you've read the book "Jazz Dance" then you may have been surprised at one part in particular, the epilogue, which begins with an argument against the emasculation of male dancers. (I know!) Most damning of all is a quote attributed to Gene Kelly, where he claims that the dance industry is "dominated by homosexuals." What did Kelly mean by that? Did he even say it at all? What is the original source? All of these questions are answered and more in this episode.

0:00 - 3:24 Theme Song 12 & Introduction to "Jazz Dance"

3:25 - 6:46 The Epilogue and Kelly Quote

6:47 - 7:13 Anecdotal example of prejudice, boys in dance

7:14 - 8:59 Media example, Lara Spencer, Good Morning America

9:00 - 10:30 Why should male dancers have to be brave?

10:31 - 13:52 The article where the quote originated

13:53 - 15:55 What is masculine? & Kelly quote debunked

15:56 - 19:29 Kelly explains his position (and it's cringe)

19:30 - 19:53 Kelly continues (not cringe!)

19:54 - 22:55 Homosexuality and international law, 1960s

22:56 - 25:30 Origins of Kelly's prejudice

25:31 - 28:06 Is "manliness" okay?

28:07 - 29:48 Conclusion: "Jazz Dance" got this one wrong

29:49 - 36:15 Tap Dance Podcast Roundup

THERE IS NOTHING AFTER THIS, SO DON'T WAIT AROUND! THERE'S JUST DEAD AIR FOR, UM, NO REASON!

Special thanks to our Patreon Supporters, Step Creators Junior Laniyan and Lori Williams, and Tap Aficionado Liz Rancourt-Smith. We're getting closer for our goal of new water fountains at the M.A.D.D. Rhythms Tap Academy, unless something breaks down that is more important. I will keep you informed, but in the meantime, thank you, thank you, THANK YOU!

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Gasps From A Dying Art Form is part of the M.A.D.D. Rhythms Podcast Network

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