Come out, come out wherever you are!
First person: Sixth annual Coming Out Monologues YYC inspires many
Kari Pedersen
Arts Editor
The cast and crew of the Coming Out Monologues YYC attempted an ‘Ellen selfie’ at the end of the March 20 show.
Photo courtesy: Facebook
To say the Coming Out Monologues was the highlight of my week would be a serious understatement. Taking place from March 18-20, every night featured different amazingly brave and talented performers telling their coming out stories in unique ways.
On March 20, I entered the John Dutton theatre, not entirely sure what to expect, as this was my first time at the Coming Out Monologues, and to be honest, I am quite glad I didn’t go in with expectations, because any that I had would have been blown away.
Starting off the show in an amazing and hilarious way was Sherri-D, an author, poet and nominee for “Author Who Would Make the Best Lover” (I can’t make this stuff up). Welcomed with exuberant applause, Sherri-D donned the stage in a sequin top and leather pants, making herself a bit of a human disco ball under the lights. After a few quips and banter, Sherri-D carefully introduced the first set of performers.
It is hard to pick one stand out, as every performer told an amazing story in their own way, and brought most of the audience to laughter and tears. In the first half of the show One Voice Chorus set the mood with their story about “Club Carousel” sharing the story of the first safe space for the LGBTQ+ community in Calgary.
Next up was Bailey Bjolin and her endearing tale of realizing she was gay and the crush that inspired her story. Marg came up next and told a unique story of coming out at the age of 54, with two kids and a husband by her side. Finishing up the first half was Renee Ladouceur whose inspiring story left the audience ready for more.
A group of amazing dancers, called the Snap Boys, slayed in high heels and finished off the first and second half and Sherri-D said her new life aspiration was to join their group or be that graceful on heels.
During the intermission I took the opportunity to write some words of encouragement to the performers, which had been set up in the lobby, and while I did I took a look around at all the people connecting, it was a sense of community that you rarely get to witness.
The second half was more amazing performers including Tabitha Wallace and Jessica Yule, both successfully bringing the audience to tears with their inspirational stories. The Snap Boys finished off the show, and you could tell by the way the audience was cheering that they didn’t want it to end.
For those of you reading this, unsure if this is an event for the straight community let me tell you, it is. It is a place for everyone to come together.
For more information visit Comingoutyyc.com and check out their upcoming event Coming Out at Work on April 22.
