* This event is free and no RSVP required.
The fictitious ‘The Church of Trans Love' presents a queerdo take on ecclesiastical liturgical practices in the tradition of ‘The Book of Mormon’ for a special WeHo Pride 2022 performance on the Community Stage. Queer/TGI/BIPOC High Priestesses/Priests share poetry and prayers written by trans artists; 'blessing' ritualistic elements close to the trans community; and joining all assembled in a show-stopping ritual of remembrance for Leslie Monroy, a trans sister who served on the Transgender Advisory Board of the City of West Hollywood for many years and passed away last year from brain cancer. The audience plays a ‘full, active and conscious’ role in the show.
Created by Lindsey Deaton, produced by Drian Juarez and co-sponsored by Transgender Talent; the Church of Trans Love performance includes music from David Bowie and features Key Change Ensemble®, the show’s gospel choir of professional trans and non-binary singers.
Queer, transgender, gender non-conforming, intersex and Black, Indigenous, People of Color have long histories of trauma and abuse at the hands of members of ecclesiastical institutions; churches, temples, mosques and synagogues. Embracing the challenge of the theme ‘With Liberty, Diversity, Inclusion and Progress for All’, the Church of Trans Love hopes to provide a trans-do look at the hypocrisy that exists still in these institutions and the possibilities that can surface when queer/TGI/BIPOC people take control of their communal gatherings and rituals.
This program is supported by a grant from the City of West Hollywood’s Arts Division as part of the City's WeHo Pride LGBTQ Arts Festival (May 22 - June 30). More info at https://pride.weho.org.