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Learn Self-Defense, See 'Fourteen Funerals,' Support Mr. Liberty Leather, Get Tickets for Stand with Trans Gala

Liam Clymer

January doesn’t have to be frumpy, babes! But when faced with the bitter bite of Michigan winter — and the second inauguration of Trump — I know releasing yourselves from the sweet embrace of a cozy blanket is easier said than done. Luckily for you, your favorite Detroit LGBTQ+ orgs are turning up the heat and giving you a chance to finish out January strong and future-forward. You can take your pick of two campy theater extravaganzas, work up a sweat at an LGBTQ+ self-defense workshop or freely ogle the hottest guys in town at Mr. Liberty Leather 2025.

1. Learn Defense Techniques in a Safe Space

The folks over at The Mix Studios know that attacks on LGBTQ+ individuals are both a physical and mental threat. The studio's new queer self-defense workshop offers a comprehensive curriculum that addresses these safety concerns in detail. “The goal at The Mix Studios is to provide a safe space to learn skills and mental preparedness, verbal assertiveness as well as physical self-protection,” Sarah Kreiner, owner of The Mix, tells Pride Source.



Kreiner added that the class’s instructor is more than knowledgeable. “[Instructor] Heidi Sproul has been teaching self-defense for women and girls since 1990. She is also a psychotherapist who specializes in treating survivors of violence and has also treated those who commit violence. She understands the dynamics of sexual assault and other types of violence and works to empower students.”

Jan. 26, 1-4 p.m., The Mix Studios (332 Harriet St.,Ypsilanti). Sign up at the-mix-studios.com

2. Catch the Premiere of ‘Fourteen Funerals’

A model of the "Fourteen Funerals" set. Courtesy photo
A model of the "Fourteen Funerals" set. Courtesy photo

The Purple Rose Theatre Company’s next creative project serves as a reminder of the perseverance of love in unlikely circumstances. The darkly humorous “Fourteen Funerals” follows Sienna, a young woman who returns home after the passing of 14 of her family members she didn’t know to give 14 eulogies she’s unprepared for. Maybe it was fated that she would meet Millie, a peculiarly sunny employee of the Blissfield funeral home?

“The relationship between Sienna and Millie reminds us of those first feelings of love, especially those moments when it finds you unexpectedly,” director Rhiannon Ragland tells Pride Source. “We tell a lot of different stories at the Purple Rose, but those common human experiences are always a core element we look for in anything we bring to our stage.” Don’t miss your chance to catch the Michigan premiere of this curiously beautiful story!

Feb. 6-March 9, various showtimes, The Purple Rose Theatre Company (137 Park St., Chelsea). Book tickets at purplerosetheatre.org.

3. Show Support For a New Mr. Liberty Leather

Leather, cute guys and a LGBTQ+ Detroit institution… need I say more? 

All the above will be on hand at Detroit’s premier LGBTQ+ leather showcase and competition, Mr. Liberty Leather. You may know Liberty Bar best for its drag brunches and bingos, but this two-day event brings out the bad in us all through a palpably seductive weekend of LGBTQ+ entertainment.

As for the contest portion, there will be pageant-style challenges, including an interview round, that will continue with scantily-clad competitors working the runway. The next icon will be announced by evening's end.

Jan. 31-Feb. 1, times vary across the weekend, Liberty Bar (85 N. Saginaw St., Pontiac). Further information can be found at bit.ly/40zjxwW.

4. Journey to ‘Slurptopia’

Slurptopia

Plant Ant’s latest production is a campy, clever critique of modern-day class dynamics and maximalist culture that’s not to be missed.

Set in the vibrant world of "Slurptopia," the show explores a society where "slurp" — the freedom to follow one’s impulses — is the most coveted resource. While citizens strive to slurp freely, the upper class wields this power as a tool of control and manipulation.

Though character names like “Slurp Goblin” and “Dry Lord” are hilariously absurd, the humor serves as a sharp contrast to the production’s deeper, thought-provoking commentary.

Jan. 24 and 25, 8 p.m., The Planet Ant Black Box (2357 Caniff St., Hamtramck). Snag a seat at bit.ly/4hgg1gh.

5. Honor a Decade of Stand with Trans

Ten years is nothing to scoff at — especially when the most popular current political strategy seems to be focused on threatening our protections and politicizing our lives. It’s incredibly important in this era that the community can turn to the determined and provenly reliable Michigan LGBTQ+ organization Stand with Trans.

In order to properly celebrate the landmark achievements made in the org’s last decade of service, Stand with Trans will host the “Love Transcends” gala on May 17. With dinner, entertainment, drinks and a silent auction, the community rallying event is representative of the sense of love and joy Stand with Trans has come to be known for.

Tickets are expected to sell out quickly. Make sure to stake out your spot as a part of this pivotal moment in Stand with Trans’ history.

May 17, 7 p.m., Henry Ford Health Pistons Performance Center (6201 2nd Ave., Detroit). Secure your spot at bit.ly/4jdAjZJ.



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