As the University discusses expanding its Latino Studies program, three student groups brought a Latino studies and theater expert to Duke Thursday night to discuss the changing role of Latinos in contemporary culture.
David Roman, an associate professor of English and American Studies at the University of Southern California and member of the Chicano and Latino Studies Department, defined John Leguizamo's Broadway show FREAK as a turning point in the perception of Latino culture in America. The show featured the first solo Latino performance on Broadway, depicting the dramatic tension within Leguizamo's family, particularly between him and his father, from his youth to his mid-20s.
"Leguizamo does not simply follow in the footsteps of past Latino performers," Roman said, commenting that he builds on the foundation paved by earlier celebrities like Desi Arnaz.
Roman said the Broadway show demonstrated two concepts--the traditional biological structure, or core family unit, and representational history of pan-Latino studies.
He also said the show defied the notion of the traditional Latino family--characterized by tradition, spirituality and solidarity.
"The traditional notion of family seems inescapable," Roman said. "The biological family is at the center of Latino life."
Roman said that idea of family is viewed as a utopic possibility, citing the Elian Gonzalez case as an example of the portrayal of strength within the Latino family unit--especially given the media's dramatic perception of Gonzalez's family.
But, he said, the notion that Latinos have strong families is not as strong as stereotypically portrayed by the media.
He also noted the prominence of other Latino celebrities from Carlos Santana to Jennifer Lopez in mainstream popular culture, and how those celebrities have voiced their opinions to shift cultural politics.
FREAK ran for about six months in 1998, grossing $1.2 million, and was nominated for two Tony Awards, much of it from Latino audiences.
Roman said the show was highly promoted and its producers made efforts, such as discounting prices, to reach Latino playgoers, who comprised 75 percent of the play's total audience. Bringing Latinos to Broadway perfomances caused an even greater shift in culture, Roman said.
"Contrary to conventional wisdom, Latinos will come if the show is appealing and made available," he said.
The speech was sponsored by Duke Allies, the Gothic Queers and Mi Gente.
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