This spring, two of Atlanta’s theater companies will stage several LGBTQ+ shows, including the world premieres of a dark comedy and a drag parody, as well as two one-night-only musical events.
LGBTQ+ plays
Actor’s Express stages the world premiere of “Venus” from April 9 to May 3. The show is a celestial, black comedy where two women reflect on the demise of their budding romance – and themselves.
“Venus” was originally developed by playwright Steve Yockey as part of Theatrical Outfit’s “Made in Atlanta” LAUNCHPAD Festival. Yockey is also the writer of the dark drama “Pluto” and comedy-thriller “Mercury.”
Shows are 7:30 p.m. on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays; 8 p.m. on Saturdays; and 2 p.m. on Sundays. Tickets to “Venus” start at $25.75 at the Actor’s Express website.
Out Front Theatre, Atlanta’s LGBTQ+ theater company, will stage the world premiere of “Cluedunnit” from April 30 to May 16. The outrageous drag parody, by Jack Carol and Out Front’s Artistic Director Paul Conroy, throws six larger-than-life suspects, a house mother with secrets galore, and one overworked houseboy into a stormy night of scandal and shade. Armed with deadly gifts and death drops, the suspects must sashay through mistaken identities, outrageous confessions, and a cascade of murders in the dark.
Shows are 8 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, and 3 p.m. on Sundays. Tickets to “Cluedunnit” start at $35 and can be purchased at Out Front’s website.
Concerts and cabarets
Both theaters will also host special musical events this month. Panache, a small ensemble of members from the Atlanta Gay Men’s Chorus, will perform a concert at Out Front Theatre on April 11. Showcasing stunning vocal artistry, rich harmonies, and dynamic musical storytelling, Panache will deliver a program that highlights the depth, versatility, and passion of these exceptional singers.
Showtimes are 4 and 8 p.m. Tickets to “Panache in Concert” start at $30 on the Voices of Note website.
The following evening, Actor’s Express will host “Freddie’s Playlist,” a cabaret featuring hits from pop divas and icons curated by the theater’s artistic director, Freddie Ashley. This one-night event will feature the vocal talents of Jill Hames, Emma Jean Scott, Anny Jules, Clinton Harris, Craig Waldrip, Justis Star, Nevaeh Riddle, and Riley Given to raise money for the theater’s programming.
“Freddie’s Playlist: Divas and Icons” is April 12 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased on the Actor’s Express website.
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