Changing Perception of LGBT People Through Performances – Theater and Television in America and in Japan

Abstract

This paper examines how LGBT representations in popular media have changed people’s perception and is eventually changing society. American TV programs and theater have played significant roles in terms of advancement of LGBT issues. I look at three TV shows that made LGBT people visible in American society, and three revival theatrical productions on Broadway that urge us to look back at the history and keep fighting for equality. Compared to the U.S., Japan has a long way to go in terms of LGBT issues. However, social and political changes are happening especially in recent years. I analyze three recent TV shows shedding positive light on LGBT characters and argue that the change in Japan has been happening in a similar way which demonstrates how important these cultural representations are for the change.