In the midst of the Cold War, when the United States was gripped by fear of Soviet infiltration, another lesser-known but equally impactful phenomenon was occurring within the government. The Lavender Scare, a period that spanned about two decades starting in the late 1940s, saw the systematic expulsion of thousands of gay federal employees due to their sexual orientation. This dark chapter in American history, often overshadowed by the more commonly taught Red Scare, came to light for Zackery Betty, a passionate dancer and history enthusiast, during his graduate studies in choreography back in 2022.
Fascinated and appalled by this hidden history, Betty found solace in expressing the untold stories through the art of dance. “Dance felt like the only language that was possible for it,” he mused. “Because dance is a language of the body, it didn’t feel as intrusive to share this story. It felt almost like an invitation for learning and education.” And so, The Lavender Scare was born, a poignant blend of contemporary and modern dance that delves into the lives of two gay government employees in 1950s Washington, D.C.
On the upcoming evening of Saturday, March 1, NSquared Dance, under Betty’s artistic direction, will grace the stage at the Briggs Opera House in White River Junction with The Lavender Scare as part of the Shake the Cabin Fever event. This performance serves as a fundraiser for the Junction Dance Festival, an annual celebration aimed at showcasing local and regional dance talent while offering workshops and performances to the community. Elizabeth Kurylo, the festival’s president and director, lauds NSquared Dance for its innovative approach to storytelling and the exceptional level of talent displayed in their performances.
The Lavender Scare, set against the backdrop of a turbulent era in American history, resonates deeply with contemporary audiences amidst ongoing debates and policies surrounding LGBTQ+ rights. With a cast of ten dancers and a 90-minute runtime, the performance unfolds as a series of vignettes that shift between the characters’ public and private lives. From the rigid confines of an office setting to the intimate whispers in Lafayette Park, Betty’s choreography weaves a tale of resilience, oppression, and ultimately, the fight for equal rights and acceptance.
Drawing inspiration from David K. Johnson’s seminal work, “The Lavender Scare: The Cold War Persecution of Gays and Lesbians in the Federal Government,” Betty sheds light on a dark chapter in American history that has long been relegated to obscurity. The struggles faced by LGBTQ+ individuals during this period, characterized by fear, discrimination, and loss of livelihood, are poignantly brought to life through the artistry of dance.
As the audience immerses themselves in the performance, they are encouraged to wear lavender, a symbolic gesture of solidarity and remembrance for those who endured the injustices of the Lavender Scare. Betty’s choreography serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity, inviting viewers to reflect on the lessons of the past and the ongoing fight for equality and inclusivity in today’s society.
The Lavender Scare, choreographed by Zackery Betty and performed by NSquared Dance, promises to be a powerful and thought-provoking experience that transcends time and resonates with audiences on a deeply emotional level. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness history come alive on stage and join in the journey towards a more inclusive and accepting future.
