Brown & Out V, a groundbreaking festival that coincides with the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots in New York City, will be presented Thursdays through Sundays from June 7 to July 7 at Casa 0101 Theater in Boyle Heights.
The Stonewall Riots ushered in the beginning of the Gay Rights Movement, the 50th anniversary of the passing of gay icon Judy Garland and the celebration of the National LGBTQ Pride Month.
The themes of Brown & Out V delve into the politics, socio-economics, religious oppression and indigenous roots of the unique, but often oppressed, LGBTQ community.
“We presented our first Brown & Out play festival at Little CASA in September 2011. At that time, the 10-minute original short plays were created in writing classes I was leading. Now, years later, with our fifth anniversary of Brown & Out, plays are selected for production at the conclusion of a collective writing workshop,” said Casa 0101 founder Josefina López. “It’s really personally fulfilling to me to provide opportunities and a space for all human beings to be who they truly are, living their own authentic lives, while at the same time expressing their inner creativity freely.”
Brown & Out V features the work of 12 writers, played by an ensemble of 11 actors, helmed by seven directors, two assistant directors and a bevy of designers and production personnel. The mission of the Brown & Out play festival is to present plays written by Latinx LGBTQ storytellers representing the diverse, ever-evolving culture, community and queer experiences.
Performances will be Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., and Sundays at 4 p.m. Tickets are $30 for general admission; $25 for seniors; and $20 for Boyle Heights residents and students. In addition, 10% of tickets will be set aside at each performance for theatergoers to pay-what-they-can at the door; these tickets will be available on a first-come, first-served basis one hour prior to the show time for each performance. There are also $65 VIP tickets available, which include early seating in the theatre and a swag bag with original artwork for Brown & Out Fest created by the artist Roque. Discounted group pricing for six or more guests is also available; call the box office to inquire.
This show is not recommended for children as it contains strong adult language and mature themes. Advance reservations are highly encouraged. There will be talkback discussions following Sunday matinee performances with the playwrights and cast members.
CASA 0101 Theater, 2102 E. First St. (at St. Louis Street), Boyle Heights