The first thing I tell my students when they are embarking on research is to make sure they have the who, what, where, how, and why of their project clearly set out. Therefore, I think it’s only proper that I start out my research process this way too.
Who: The research focuses on stakeholders (performers, sponsors, vendors, organisers) and audiences; thus, both producers and consumers of the event.
What: This research explores the role of a heritage and sporting event as a mechanism which reinforces or challenges the reproduction of male-dominated heteronormative narratives in sport participation. Certain dominant groups often define ‘what sport is’ or ‘what sport should be like’ and how it is actually experienced by various groups within various cultural contexts. Perceptions of women and LGBTQ athletes, especially those who participate in violent or traditionally ‘macho’ sport, are socially constructed within culture.
By focusing on the case study of the Star of Texas Fair and Rodeo, this research aims to: 1) examine gendered power relations and interactions to understand the effectiveness of masculinities in the legitimation of the gender order in this event landscape; and, 2) critically evaluate commercialised elements such as merchandise, branding materials, and marketing to audiences to discern if the literal selling of this cowboy ideal has an impact on normalising masculine dominance, especially in a family entertainment setting.
Where: Star of Texas Fair and Rodeo, Austin, TX, USA.
How: Post-structural intersectional approaches. Qualitative research methods include semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders and ethnography via participant (as an attendee) observation.
Why: It is suggested that there are gaps in the literature regarding the gendering of event spaces, and this research aims to contribute to the body of knowledge in this area by exploring the constructions and commodification of masculinity in rodeo spaces.
Rodeo Masculinities 