Richmond's Gateway Theatre is hosting a free Pride storytelling and tea event tonight on Aug. 1.
The event, titled True Voices: Pride Storytelling and Tea, honours the unique and personal experiences of local 2SLGBTQI+ community members and allies.
It is part of Richmond's Pride Together events and features performances, and personal stories shared by a mix of local artists, writers and everyday community members on the strength and courage they took to be true to themselves amid a world of challenges.
Stories being told cover topics from coming out experiences and family relationships to the joys and struggles of finding love and acceptance.
Storytellers include:
- Lea & Joyce “Lessons from an Interracial Relationship” - Demystifying cultural differences and assumptions.
- Irene “Coming Out for My Daughter” - That day, my daughter says to me: "Mom, I need to talk to you..."
- Jordy Matheson “French Kissing 101” - A young gay person learns about loneliness and love in the city of lights.
- Kathleen Oliver “The Green Notebook” - Be careful how you tell your stories and be careful what you write them in.
- Nicola Spurling “A Journey to Authenticity” - How I am discovering my identity, transitioning, and settling into a new and ever-changing existence.
- Samantha Sun “The Importance of Being Fujoshi (Rotten Girl)” - I never imagined that being a rotten girl would mean so much to me and my family.
Visibility and representation are the key themes of True Voices. The event aims to give attendees insight into the real-life experiences of the 2SLGBTQI+ individuals to break down stereotypes and build bridges of understanding.
This storytelling event also celebrates the progress made in the fight for 2SLGBTQI+ rights and equality and a more inclusive and accepting society, according to Gateway Theatre in a press release.
"These personal narratives are a testament to the strength and courage it takes to be true to oneself in a world that can often be challenging," said Gateway Theatre.
The event will be at Gateway Theatre's second-floor lobby at 6500 Gilbert Rd. at 7 p.m.
While the event is free, registration is required for anyone interested in attending.
For more information and to register, click here.
