|
We like to think of ourselves as a progressive generation, parenting beyond stereotypical boundaries of pink for girls and blue for boys. To our credit, we have broken down gender barriers in many ways. However, society continues to show the symptoms of established feminine and masculine perimeters. No other area has felt the blows of gender profiling more than the performing arts.
Ask almost anyone to say the first thing that comes to mind when they hear "ballet," and pink tutus and leotards will be among common responses. Ask the same people what they think about young males participating in ballet, and attitudes often shift abruptly as the struggle to remain objective becomes obvious. Even though we live in an age of information over myth, it is not uncommon to hear fathers voice concern that somehow their sons' sexual orientation may be "at risk" if they are encouraged to engage in performing arts. Sadly, a large segment of our society continues to teach and foster such fallacies as football and hunting are heterosexual male activities, while tap or drama classes are for the ladies. For parents determined to keep the doors of opportunity open, the keys to helping kids discover their interests and overcome the prejudices of the vocal few are education and exposure.
Perhaps one of the reasons females outnumber males in early participation of the performing arts is the disproportionate exposure they receive. Even if your son doesn't have a desire to participate in the performing arts, exposure leads to appreciation of the arts, something that is clearly beneficial across gender lines. To truly understand anything is a lifelong gift, and understanding the many facets of theatre, dance, or performed poetry expands the mind to think beyond the analytical.
For those young males who have an interest in the arts, peer pressure can make fulfillment of their interest very difficult. As a parent, your support is paramount. Help your son research the specific area he is interested in. Attend performances with him. If he is drawn to acting, attend a few plays, rent videos of Tennessee Williams, Shakespearean or other classic plays. If he is interested in dance, find a ballet or dance recital to attend. If one is not available, again, rent videos such as The Nutcracker or Swan Lake. These are only suggested titles. Once you and your son decide to explore the arts, you will find many resources to help develop a better understanding of the subject.
Be encouraging of your son's participation or interest. Point out that history reflects very honorably on males in the performing arts. For example, the great Shakespearean plays were original performed by all-male casts. It was considered improper for young ladies to perform as actors, therefore, even the female roles were performed by males. Playwrights were highly respected and performances were reserved for society's upper class.
Rosie Greer, one of football's biggest and most popular players, is known to be an avid fan of needlepoint. Shaquille O'Neal, basketball's big man, has explored singing and acting. James Stewart, known for his masculine roles in western movies, loved to write poetry. Think the kitchen is just for women? Think again! Many of the world's greatest chefs are men. Point out the roles men have played in activities that are customarily thought of as feminine roles. It is wonderful for a young person's self esteem to see that they are only limited by whether or not they accept the biases of intolerance and ignorance. It may also be helpful to point out the struggles many women have gone through in order to gain acceptance in typically male-dominated sports, jobs, and other activities.
Imagine our world without the power and awesome agility of male gymnasts, the strength and grace of male figure skaters, and the beautiful expressions of Vincent Van Gogh and Henry David Thoreau. We owe it to the next generation to open the doors of opportunity into the performing arts even wider. If we are robbed of the talents of even one young man who belongs in the world of art, our world is a little darker and we, as a people, are a little less free.
|
| |
