Unmasking the lolas: Production and signification of drag in Eat Bulaga's kalye serye

Date of Publication

2017

Document Type

Master's Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts in Communication Major in Applied Media Studies

College

College of Liberal Arts

Department/Unit

Communication

Thesis Adviser

Clodualdo A. Del Mundo, Jr.

Defense Panel Chair

Miguel Q. Rapatan

Defense Panel Member

Shirley O. Lua
Jason Vincent A. Cabañes
Julio C. Teehankee

Abstract/Summary

This study investigates the process constructing meaning behind drag performances in Philippine television. A drag performance is the act of crossdressing and cross gender acting to entertain. This is very evident but an understudied practice in Philippine media where famous comedians have performed drag on television at one point in their career (e.g. Wally Bayola as Lola Nidora, Michael V in his various female roles). To study how drag characters are constructed and invested with meaning, I interview production people involved on the subject, do a semiotic analysis of selected episodes of Kalye Serye, and conduct a content analysis of the script. I also analyzed published interviews with Wally Bayola and the Head Writer of Kalye Serye, Jenny Ferre. Using social semiotic analysis posited in social semiotics theory, this study argues that drag is used to capitalize on Eat Bulagas best comedians. However, the use of drag in Kalye Serye also challenges our understanding of drag, as drag becomes a tool to repackage actors who have a history of sexual or marital misconducts to effectively preach about morality and values.

Abstract Format

html

Language

English

Format

Electronic

Accession Number

CDTG007122

Shelf Location

Archives, The Learning Commons, 12F Henry Sy Sr. Hall

Physical Description

2 computer discs ; 4/34 inches

Keywords

Drag shows--Philippines; Comedy; Television programs--Philippines; Television series--Philippines; Filipinos; Eat Bulaga

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