Photo: Roger Q. Mason

National Queer Theater and the Dramatist Guild are now accepting applications for a yearlong residency for Black trans and gender nonconforming (TGNC) playwrights.

Applications for the New Visions Fellowship are being accepted until March 5^th at 6 pm EST and the two playwrights selected will receive mentorship to develop a play, musical, or performance experience, $5,000, a three-year membership to the Dramatists Guild, and a professional reading of their play.

In a statement on National Queer Theater’s website they state, “We believe the New Visions Fellowship is essential because of its opportunity to create space for the Black and queer imagination, a perspective long and consistently forced to take a backseat to “safer” LGBT stories in American culture, and even American queer culture.”

Playwright Roger Q. Mason has signed on as a primary mentor to the fellows. In addition, there will be masterclasses lead by Tony Award-winning writer Lisa Kron and Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Doug Wright.

National Queer Theater is committed to celebrating LGBTQ artists and providing a home for unheard storytellers and activists.

The Guild was established for the purpose of aiding dramatists in protecting both the artistic and economic integrity of their work.

Don’t ask if you’re good enough. Don’t compare yourself to others who may apply. Just know this program is specifically for Black playwrights who identify as trans or gender nonconforming and if that’s you, don’t hesitate, don’t overthink, simply apply.

The post New Fellowship For Black Trans And Gender-Nonconforming Playwrights appeared first on Broadway Black.

Bootycandy follows the life of “Sutter” through childhood, adolescence, and adulthood. Built as a vignette that clips memories from church, bars, and his family home, the story is tied together by equal parts hilarity and truth. I can guarantee you won’t be bored.. and you will be sitting at the edge of your seat, scene after scene. Matter of fact, I don’t think there’s a word to describe the unpredictability of O’Hara’s work. One minute you’re laughing and the next minute you’re in awe as the plot has taken a new turn for what feels like the fifth time.

My first O’Hara show was Barbecue, which was recently at The Public Theatre. What I learned then was that deliberate undertones and themes shine through after the laughter has faded. Much like Barbecue, Bootycandy explores real issues. On top of giving insight into the double minority life of being Black and gay, it satirizes the plight of a Black playwright, it highlights church life and religion in the context of Black America, and it does so in a refreshingly, in-your-face manner. 

Come to laugh. But most importantly, come ready to leave the theater thinking. Bootycandy is directed by Ovation Award-winner Michael Matthews and Michael A. Shepperd. The cast includes Cooper Daniels, Julanne Hill, Anton Peeples, Michael A. Shepperd and Travina Springer. Previews started October 23; the show officially opened October 29th and will play through December 20th.

The post Bootycandy Premieres In LA At Celebration Theatre appeared first on Broadway Black.

For those of you that might not be familiar with what being trans is like Cox had this to say

“There’s not just one trans experience. And I think what they need to understand is that not everybody who is born feels that their gender identity is in alignment with what they’re assigned at birth, based on their genitalia. If someone needs to express their gender in a way that is different, that is okay, and they should not be denied healthcare. They should not be bullied. They don’t deserve to be victims of violence. … That’s what people need to understand, that it’s okay and that if you are uncomfortable with it, then you need to look at yourself.”                                                                 –

                                          -“The Orange Is the New Black star on politics, happiness and why genitalia isn’t destiny”, Time Magazine.

Broadway Bares is an annual fundraising event that not only promotes awareness of HIV/AIDS but also helps to fund its research. Cox’s Burlesque inspired performance got the audience going as she stepped onto the stage in nothing but stockings, a corset and sequined pasties. Performing to the Banarama 80’s classic “Venus” club version,and  she gave us moves like Beyonce! This may not be commonly known about Cox but she started studying dance at a very young age. Her back up dancers were full of energy and of course her male dancers were scantily clad and ripped.

For more information on the good works of Broadway Bares visit this link with highlights from Sunday nights performance as well as information on future events and ways to donate. Also, for your social justice fix as well as an opportunity to see clips of her personality follow @Lavernecox on twitter here.

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The post Laverne Cox Almost Bares It All For Broadway Bares appeared first on Broadway Black.