An Introduction to LGBTQIA+ Theatre
From Oscar Wilde to Tony Kushner, Matthew Lopez, and beyond, this workshop charts the history of LGBTQIA+ theatre from ancient times to the present day. Looking at the distinctly Queer roots of theatre and performance, through to coded performances of the Victorian era and writes like Wilde and Tennessee Williams who wove Queerness into their work but also kept elements hidden. Examining the evolution of gay fringe theatre, such as Gay Sweatshop, and international venues like Theatre Rhinoceros, the session will cover ‘liberation era’ plays through to theatre as a response to AIDS and a form of activism. Moving forward into the 21st century, we will examine revivals of ‘classic’ gay plays and the emerging new landscape of Queer work, and ask where next for LGBTQIA+ theatre.
Who is this session for?
This session is for anyone with an interest in LGBTQIA+ Theatre, although no prior knowledge of these topics is required.
What can I expect?
This session is taught through presentations (PowerPoint on shared screen) video clips and discussions. Discussion sections are optional, but allow participants to reflect on the material and their own experiences.
Joining via Zoom
This session will be held via Zoom. You need a computer/laptop or mobile phone to access the Zoom website, and a reliable internet connection.
You will need a computer or other device to connect with Zoom and a notebook/paper and pen/pencil, or digital equivalent.
Practical information
- Online ticket sales will close two hours prior to the event starting.
- If sales have closed and you would still like to attend, to enquire about availability please contact our Box Office team via 020 73929200. If spaces remain we can arrange payment over the phone.
- These sessions are live only and will not be recorded. Attendees must join at the scheduled time, as recordings will not be made available after the event.
Need to Know
Meet the Tutor
Dr Emily Garside
Emily Garside is a writer and professional nerd based in Cardiff. She has a PhD in theatrical responses to the AIDS crisis and is a leading expert on LGBTQ+ theatre. Emily regularly writes for journals such as The Queer Review, American Theatre, and Wales Art Review. She published her first non-fiction book ‘Love That Journey For Me: The Queer Revolution of Schitt's Creek’ in 2021 with 404ink. This was followed by ‘Angels in America at the British National Theatre’ in 2022 (McFarland). While 2023 sees ‘Seasons of Love, why Rent Matters’ (Applause), ‘Schitt’s Creek and the Rise of Queer TV’ (Applause), and ‘From Queer as Folk to It’s A Sin; Russell T Davies and Queer TV’ (Calon Books). She is also a journalist, a regular contributor for The Queer Review and has written for American Theatre, Slate, BBC, and The Stage. She also uses her research and lived experience to tell queer stories through fiction, having had several plays performed in London and nationally.
Dates and Times
An Introduction to LGBTQIA+ Theatre
, 21:25 - 23:25
What We Do
