Queer Things to Do: Brunch with Barbie, See a Prom-Themed Musical, Attend a Queer Artist Bazaar

Published: July 19, 2023 | Last Updated: August 29, 2023

It might feel like the world is nothing but wildfires, angry transphobes and an endless air travel nightmare, but actually, we’re sitting in a sweet spot. The next presidential election is still 15 months away, and distractions from the news abound. Tune in to what really matters — spending time with people you love (or at least like), doing things that make you happy. Hit up a sweet Barbie brunch and screening, pick up some adventurous creations at a queer artist market, see a fun prom-themed musical or join a meetup for queer Jewish families at a local park.

1. Do Brunch with Barbie

Let’s go Barbie! A recent Fox News headline proclaims: “‘Barbie’ Film ‘Forgets Core Audience’ in Favor of Trans Agenda and Gender Themes,” but that’s not the only reason to go see the new flick — there’s also an opportunity to add brunch to the experience at The Maple Theater. Mark McMillan of McMillan Behavioral Health and Addiction Services, which is hosting the event on July 23, says, “Join us for a booze free brunch at The Maple Theater, then grab a popcorn and a soda and be amongst the first to see ‘Barbie.’ Barbie herself will be joining us for brunch, so get ready for your best Barbie photo.”

The event features a strolling brunch, fun mocktail bar open throughout brunch, popcorn/drink specials and, of course, a screening of the new “Barbie” movie. Each ticket includes a donation to Ferndale Pride. “MBHS has been a proud supporter of Ferndale Pride for several years with our sponsorship of the Recovery Education Zone, so this fundraiser event seemed like a natural fit,” McMillan adds. “Wear pink, have great food and have a fabulous time watching the ‘Barbie’ movie in a safe and sober environment.”

July 23, The Maple Theater (4135 W. Bloomfield Road, Bloomfield Township). Brunch starts at 11:30 a.m., followed by “Barbie” screening at 12:30 p.m. Buy tickets at bit.ly/3K0c3Ky.

2. See ‘The Prom’

2 2 1024x1024 — Cast photo from “The Prom.” Photo: Center Stage

The Center Stage production of “The Prom,” the big Broadway hit and feature film, is particularly well-timed, given the ongoing culture wars centered on young adults in the LGBTQ+ community. In the musical, high-schooler Emma simply wants to take her girlfriend to the prom, but winds up becoming the face of a movement when the PTA throws up a roadblock and four Broadway has-beens arrive on the scene to save the day. “‘The Prom’ captures all the humor and heart of a classic musical comedy while delivering a universal message of love and acceptance,” promotional materials read.

Aug. 2-11, Midland Center for the Arts (1801 W. St. Andrews Road, Midland). Reserve tickets at bit.ly/43qhxoQ.

3. Go Greek with the Detroit Black Pride Society

The Detroit Black Pride Society will host its annual gathering, named “We Black Outside Weekend,” July 28-30. This year, the focus will have a Greek theme. Festivities include the Colors of Pride Ball on July 29 featuring Detroit ballroom houses at The Compound, a Greeks N Athletes Cookout and an open mic night hosted by NuEra Sunshine entitled, “The Greeks, The Greats and The Geniuses 3: We Back,” where attendees can share poetry and comedy. Most events are free, but advance, ticketed registration is required for the ball at bit.ly/3K31R3M.

July 28-30, various locations. Learn more at the above link.

4. Attend a Queer Artist Bazaar

In the market for unique gifts (for a loved one, or just for you)? Not Sorry Goods is the place to be July 30, when the store will kick of its second annual Queer Bazaar Artist Market at its flagship location in Ferndale. Local queer artists will be on hand to share their crafts and vintage finds. You’ll also find live, all-ages drag performances featuring Eros Lee, Astoria Addams, Jessi Hex and Zooey Gaychanel, a chance to participate in a live embroidery class, music by DJ J Peacock and drinks. Featured vendors include Black Sun Creations, Bob Toast, Cuddles & Blunts, The Dom Press, Wiggly.JPG, Stay Within and live airbrush art by ffty.

July 30, 1-5 p.m., Not Sorry Goods (22963 Woodward Ave., Ferndale). Visit notsorrygoods.com for more info.

5. Join Other Queer Jewish Families at the Park

The Detroit JCC and Queer Jewish Families invites LGBTQ+ Jewish families to a party in the park July 30. The event, geared toward families with babies and kids under 10, will be held at Normandy Oaks Park in Royal Oak starting at 11 a.m. Highlights include the park’s splash pad, popsicles, snacks and organized summer games. Learn more about Detroit JCC’s JFamily program, which offers experiences “from bump, to birth, to B’nai Mitzvah & beyond,” at jfamily.jccdet.org/welcome.

July 30, 11 a.m., Normandy Oaks Park (4234 Delemere Blvd., Royal Oak).