If you want any proof of how important the Queer Arts Festival is to Vancouver, consider what happened when, this past April, the federal government announced that it was withdrawing its funding to the Pride in Art Society.
Within days, the public outcry was so loud and proud that Heritage Minister James Moore announced that he was restoring 75 per cent of the societys funding for the event.
The overwhelming support we received was humbling and encouraging, and clearly contributed to the positive outcome of our campaign, the Society says. The festivals goal is to create positive social change by promoting compassion, empathy and understanding through the arts.
QAF is a cutting-edge, multidisciplinary, three-week professional festival that celebrates the unique creative expression of Queer visual and performing artists. This years curated visual arts exhibition, community art show, innovative performing arts events, and inspiring workshops run from July 24 to August 9. Many events take place at the Roundhouse community centre in Yaletown.
Dont miss the highly-anticipated world premiere of Canadas first lesbian opera, When the Sun Comes Out, commissioned by QAF. Written by composer Leslie Uyeda and poet Rachel Rose, its the story of forbidden love, divided loyalties and culture clashes set in the imaginery country called Fundamentalia a place youd only want to visit from the safe comfort of your theatre seat.
Its at the Roundhouse on August 5, 7 and 9 with the bar open at 6:30 so you can also take in the festivals most far-reaching and exciting visual art exhibition to date, TransgressionNow, curated by Paul Wong and Glenn Alteen.
Other highlights include theatre and writing workshops, dance and music, including a Vancouver Mens Choir Big Gay Sing! concert on August 4.
For festival events and tickets, go to QueerArtsFestival.com. For complete Pride listings, see here.
