27 Sep 2018

26. “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” – Polari

Arts, Comedy, Education, Full episodes, Society & Culture

This is a bona bijou episode on Polari!

Polari, the secret language of gay men was an essential part of life because of the impact the era of criminalised homosexuality had on us, especially in the UK. 

The Queen’s English

To begin with, British chap Peter came into the studio to bring his insights into using the ‘other’ Queen’s English as a form of secret communication.

Speaking in Tongues

Also, we get stuck into some queer vernacular with the most mainstream examples of Polari with Round The Horne guests Julian and Sandy who used the language and therefore regularly subverted UK radiowaves with Polari. 

Dishy and Fishy

Interestingly, our subject this week was featured in the short film Putting On The Dish, therefore it would be remiss if us to skip over this cultural gem! We talk generally about the gay language, and in particular how queer people of colour influence drag language, that the general LGBTI community co-opts , as it makes it’s way into the wider vernacular. 

Get Appy

Before we sign off we get stuck into the Polari app and share some fun queer phrases. 

Ogle our fantabulosa socials!

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 Facebook via /hideandseekjoy949

 Instagram @hideandseekonjoy

 Twitter @hideseekonjoy

 

Get these bona glossies!

• Putting on the Dish – short film
• The Polari App: polariapp.com 
• Books:
• Polari: The Lost Language of Gay Men
• Fantabulosa: A Dictionary of Polari and Gay Slang
• Julian and Sandy

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Finally, we’d love to hear your stories! Email: hideandseek@joy.org.au

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