Meet Detroit Opera Artistic Director Yuval Sharon, Learn About LGBTQ+ Sports, Go to a Queer Live Show
With all eyes on the election (and the associated politically driven stress slated to drag on for the next few weeks), it can be a relief to turn to queer-aligned events for a bit of a breather. Assuming you've made a plan to vote — and have strongly encouraged at least five friends to make a plan of their own — some well-earned me-time is certainly in order. Head out for a book talk with ESPN journalist Katie Barnes, go see "The Grown-Ups" at the Ringwald Theatre, or take advantage of an opportunity to support a great cause at the annual Equality Michigan gala.
1. Learn About LGBTQ+ Athletics with Katie Barnes
With transgender athletes in the political crosshairs, it’s important to center the voices of those affected. Award-winning LGBTQ+ sports journalist and author Katie Barnes will share their expertise on gender in sports on Oct. 23 at University of Michigan's Museum of Art (UMMA). In an interview talkback and Q&A, Barnes will walk audience members through the findings they outline in their recent book, “Fair Play: How Sports Shape the Gender Debates.”
Oct. 23, 6:30-8 p.m., UMMA (525 State St., Ann Arbor). More information at events.umich.edu/event/126525.
2. Meet Detroit Opera Artistic Director Yuval Sharon
Yuval Sharon, Detroit Opera’s Gary L. Wasserman artistic director, will hold a discussion and book signing on Oct. 22 at Wasserman Projects in Detroit focused on Sharon’s book, “A New Philosophy of Opera.” The book dives into Sharon’s approach as opera’s “disrupter-in-residence,” including decisions like performing “La Bohème” in reverse. Throughout, Sharon champions an “anti-elite” take on opera, portraying the art form as a dynamic, ever-evolving force rather than an artform that is fading away in modern times.
While you’re there, don’t miss “Soft Serve,” a two-person exhibit featuring Machine Dazzle and Gracelee Lawrence celebrating the “maximal and fantastical force of Mother Nature,” according to press materials.
Oct. 22, 7-8:30 p.m., Wasserman Projects (3434 Russell St., Detroit). RSVP at cart.detroitopera.org/do-events/yuval-sharon-book-signing.
3. See 'The Grown-Ups' at The Ringwald
The Ringwald Theatre’s latest production shines a spotlight on modern-day issues that the LGBTQ+ community can sympathize with. “The Grown-Ups” takes place at a summer camp and is focused on the counselors trying to shape the next generation of leaders. From this backdrop comes a powerful story that tackles themes such as the dangers of othering and extremism — concepts far too familiar to queer individuals.
To truly engross audience members in the feeling of summer camp, select performances will be done outside in front of an actual campfire. And for all other showings, The Ringwald promises an immersive theater experience that places viewers at camp alongside the main characters.
Oct. 11- Nov. 4, Fridays, Saturdays and Mondays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m., The Ringwald Theatre (290 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale). Further details can be found at theringwald.com/productions/grown-ups.
4. Appreciate Queer Literature at Reading Rainbow
While LGBTQ+ books clubs for adults are common, queer youth and teenagers have just as much of a need, if not more, for taking in queer stories that enhance their worldview. Luckily, Ferndale Area District Library, in collaboration with Affirmations, hosts a social club for grades 4-8 that addresses this very need.
Reading Rainbow meets every fourth Tuesday of the month and explores stories by LGBTQ+ authors or with LGBTQ+ themes. This month, attendees will have the chance to talk about “Drew Leclair Crushes The Case,” a story by openly bi author Katryn Bury.
But even if guests haven’t gotten the time to read the book yet, the library still encourages them to attend the Reading Rainbow events. They emphasize that anyone is welcome, and that a good chunk of the meeting time goes into socializing and crafts.
Oct. 22, 6 p.m., Ferndale Area District Library (222 E. Nine Mile, Ferndale). Find out more at fadl.org/reading-rainbow.
5. Get Tickets for Mission Equality ‘80s Prom
With perms and mullets back in style, it seems only fitting that this year’s Equality Michigan gala takes us back to the 1980s. This prom-style party, set for Nov. 9, will offer space to celebrate this year’s achievements and highlight future plans. There will be a DJ, a food truck and an open bar — everything you need for a night to remember.
Executive Director Erin Knott said the theme of the event has significance to LGBTQ+ history. “This year feels extra special because we are gathering Michigan's LGBTQ+ community in such a fun, nostalgic way,” Knott told Pride Source. “The ‘80s were a pivotal era for LGBTQ+ rights, and now, decades later, we can honor how far we've come by dancing the night away in an authentic, inclusive and welcoming space with community leaders, advocates and allies who help us continue to fight for equality in our state.”
Nov. 9, 8-12 p.m., 215 West (215 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale). Snag your spot early at equalitymi.org/events/mission-equality-2024.
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