Why Homophobic Russia Loves Gender-Bending Pop Stars

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http://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2013/08/why-homophobic-russia-loves-gender-bending-pop-stars/278833/


Russian singer Philip Kirkorov performs at the 2005 World Music Awards at the Kodak Theater in Hollywood on August 31, 2005. (Reuters)


n a 2012 rendition of his hit "Little Star," Boris Moiseev, a beloved 60-year-old Russian pop singer, takes the stage during an evening variety show in a characteristically bombastic outfit: sparkly sport-coat, beaded necklaces, magenta lipstick, and what can only be described as Princess Jasmine pants.

Backed by half-dressed dancers, he vamps his way through the dance hit, cocking his hips and waving his arms seductively.

Moiseev is an institution and a household favorite, even though he's openly homosexual and most of his performances are flamboyant even by the standards of a pride parade.

But this Russia, where only 16 percent of people say homosexuals should be accepted by society and where a new law aims to prevent publicly advocating "alternative" sexualities.