In a recent episode of the show Unapologetically Queer, host Al Ferguson had the honor of interviewing Dr. Gary Keating, the founder and artistic director of the Fort Lauderdale gay men’s chorus. This enlightening conversation provided a unique insight into the history of the LGBTQ+ community in South Florida and the important role played by the chorus in fostering acceptance and visibility. Let’s delve into the highlights of this captivating interview.
Pride Month and LGBTQ+ Civil Rights Movement:
The interview commenced by acknowledging June as Pride month, commemorating the iconic Stonewall riots of June 1969. Keating emphasized the significance of this event, which marked the beginning of the modern LGBTQ+ Civil Rights Movement. Quoting British Statesman Winston Churchill, Keating stressed the importance of learning from history to avoid repeating past mistakes.
The Retrospective Exhibit at History Fort Lauderdale:
A major focus of the interview was History Fort Lauderdale’s retrospective exhibit on LGBTQ+ life in South Florida. Keating highlighted the exhibition’s tribute to the pioneers of the LGBTQ+ community, including himself. The exhibit, held at Galleria Fort Lauderdale, showcased over 100 historical photographs, videos, and costumes, chronicling the growth, activism, and business endeavors of the LGBTQ+ community in the region.
Founding the Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus:
Dr. Gary Keating founded the Fort Lauderdale gay men‘s chorus in 1986, making it the first gay performing arts organization in the state and one of the first in the nation. Keating shared the story of his inspiration, which came from seeing a poster for the New York City gay men‘s chorus during a visit to Carnegie Hall. With a background in choral conducting, Keating felt compelled to start a chorus in South Florida. The overwhelming response from the community, with over 70 to 80 signatures collected on the first night, marked the beginning of a groundbreaking journey.
Acceptance and Visibility in the 1980s:
Reflecting on the atmosphere in the 1980s, Keating discussed the lack of LGBTQ+ community spaces in South Florida. The Fort Lauderdale gay men‘s chorus served as a platform for people to come together and be a part of something meaningful. Keating expressed the joy and sense of belonging that the chorus brought to the community, especially when they performed at events like Pride festivals.
The Evolution of LGBTQ+ Music and Community:
Throughout the interview, Keating shed light on the evolution of LGBTQ+ music and its impact on the community. He described how the chorus initially performed Broadway-driven choral music but soon witnessed the emergence of gay composers creating music specifically for LGBTQ+ choruses. This newfound diversity in musical expression helped foster a stronger sense of identity and pride within the community.
