Atlanta: A Month of Excitement and Celebration
July in Atlanta, Georgia is marked by a series of remarkable events catered to the LGBTQ+ community. From highlighting the transforming effects of Phoenix’s Dragnificent on the Atlanta drag scene for the past 15 years to discussing critical issues around mental health with black performer Dotte Com, the activities scheduled for the month provide a diverse blend of entertainment and thoughtful engagement.
Comedy, Music, and More: Kicking Off July with A Bang
The line-up kicks off with a feel-good Fem Friday hosted by comedic wonders Kia Barnes and Caliwood at My Sister’s Room on July 5. Followed by the highly anticipated “Sesame Street: The Musical” at the Center for Puppetry Arts on July 6. The musical is designed to entertain people of all ages and features iconic characters Elmo, Cookie Monster, Abby Cadabby, and more.
Meanwhile, a not-to-be-missed performance from Janet Jackson graces the State Farm Arena on July 21. Fans are encouraged to sing along to all-time favorites like “Rhythm Nation.”
Embracing Diversity and Fostering Inclusion
On July 15, Charis Books and More hosts Trans and Friends, a youth-focused group that facilitates discussions around gender, relevant resources, and social activism. In addition, the Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) support group, which meets on July 21 at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Atlanta, offers a nurturing space for parents and families of LGBTQ+ children to connect and engage in dialogue.
Exploring Transness in Cinema
For film enthusiasts, a unique exploration of trans history and its representation in cinema is set for July 24. Trans film critics, Caden Mark Gardner and Willow Catelyn Maclay, will dissect the evolution of trans people and transness on-screen in their remarkable work, “Corpses, Fools, and Monsters: The History and Future of Transness in Cinema.” The discussion, hosted by Virtual Charis, aims at highlighting the political implications of trans representation in cinema.
Inclusive Art and Music
In terms of theatrical experiences, audiences are invited to join a transformative journey to the Kit Kat Club in the heart-tugging performance of “Cabaret” from July 25 to September 1 at Actor’s Express. The LGBTQ+ Book Club will feature the book “How Far the Light Reaches: A Life in Ten Sea Creatures” by Sabrina Imbler in their July 27 meeting. The event will facilitate thought-provoking discussions about queer identity, history, and current issues.
Wrapping up the month, on July 30, the Fox Theatre houses the spectacular Broadway revival of “Funny Girl”, a musical comedy that traces the story of fierce and indefatigable Fanny Brice, who carved her own path to stardom against all odds.
The array of events slated for July in Atlanta marks the city as a vibrant hub for the LGBTQ+ community. It offers numerous occasions for individuals to celebrate diversity, engage in empowering conversations, and contribute to the developing culture of understanding and acceptance.
