-- Amidst a backdrop of rising anti-LGBTQIA+ sentiment, The Coming Out Monologues takes a stand this October to amplify and celebrate queer voices and stories through a compelling series of performances. Presented by the Calgary Queer Arts and RBC, this festival is not just an event—it’s a vibrant call to action for compassion, understanding, and solidarity.
This year, over 75 storytellers applied, and 18 were selected to share their unique and powerful stories on stage. These individuals come from a rich tapestry of backgrounds, each bringing their truth to the spotlight—ranging from tales of courage and self-discovery to narratives of resilience and community.
“Now, more than ever, it’s vital to stand with queer voices, listen, and act with compassion. The Coming Out Monologues are not just for queer audiences; they invite all Albertans and families to experience diverse human stories and perspectives,” says Shone Thistle, Executive Director of Calgary Queer Arts Society, producer of The Coming Out Monologues. “Despite the political climate, we see the true spirit of Alberta—a community that is kind, inclusive, understanding, and accepting. A place where 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, youth, and their families can express, be who they are, and see themselves.”
New partnership with Reckless Daughter Creative, a FLINTA+ theatre collective. This collaboration promises to enrich the monologues with innovative theatre techniques and emotional depth, guiding participants to express their identities and stories more powerfully.
“The Queer Arts Society has always been an inspiring space that offers support and assures 2SLGBTQIA+ creatives that our voices have a place in Alberta. Partnering with them is about more than just theatre; it’s about creating a platform for people to share their stories, connect, and find community,” says Madeleine Taylor-Gregg, Co-Founder of Reckless Daughter Creative.
Over 75 storytellers applied to perform personal monologues. Of these, 18 will be sharing their stories, showcasing the increasing and vital importance of amplifying and nurturing queer voices in Alberta.
This year’s monologues feature individuals from various cultures, societal, economic, spiritual, and demographic backgrounds, illustrating stories of strength, the courage of sharing story, finding faith through community self, family - chosen or otherwise - and demonstrating hope for queer youth.
Although there are common themes woven throughout, no two stories are the same:
Take Daphne Dike-Hart, for example; Daphne shares her incredible story of coming out in Nigeria and how her experience led her to Calgary, where she founded and is now the Executive Director of Black Pride YYC. Through her devoted passion and advocacy for Black 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, she builds community, resilience, and empowerment, ensuring that every space is vibrant and every voice can be heard and cherished.
Then there is Odeh, who shares from the perspective of being a teacher and how the intersectionality of his faith and queerness has played a role in his coming out journey.
Andrea, a diversity educator and mom, shares her profoundly personal story of liberation and how, today, her kiddo is taking the drag world by storm.
And then there is Alex (58), an award-winning writer, poet, and father who will be shining a light on experiences often hidden from plain sight and sharing vulnerable parts of his story for the first time, or Maggi (58), who shares her journey through faith-based institutions that first nurtured her ability to connect to those who are hurting and later ostracised her for her difference.
Another exciting first for the Coming Out Monologues includes adding RBC as a Presenting Sponsor. RBC has continuously supported the 2SLGBTQIA+ community across Canada and is dedicated to supporting and amplifying the voices of 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals through the arts.
"By supporting The Coming Out Monologues, you're supporting local queer artists and the broader 2SLGBTQIA+ community," says Shone Thistle, Executive Director of Calgary Queer Arts Society. "The goal in everything - whether programming, community support, or partnerships - is kindness, understanding and inclusivity. Support from sponsors like RBC only reinforces this truth, reflecting the strength and unity within the region.“
These monologues are more than performances; they are an opportunity for all —queer or ally—to gather, learn, and grow. They challenge the status quo, foster connections, and celebrate the diverse spectrum that makes Alberta.
Event Details:
Dates: October 25-27, 2024
Location: The Confluence (Burnswest Theatre), Calgary
Full release here
Contact Info:
Name: Shone Thistle
Email: Send Email
Organization: Coming Out Monologues
Address: 6433a Bowness Road Northwest, Calgary, AB T3B 0E6, Canada
Website: https://fairytalesfilmfest.com/
Release ID: 89144130