Blue Roses Project: A New Sanctuary for LGBTQ+ Voices in Theater

In a significant move for the theater community, Étoile star Gideon Glick and producer-director James Will McBride have announced the launch of the Blue Roses Project, a not-for-profit initiative aimed at enriching queer narratives in contemporary theater. This project features a diverse board of directors, including Tony award-winning actor Jonathan Groff, known for his work in Merrily We Roll Along. As reported exclusively by Variety, the Blue Roses Project promises to be an essential platform for local artists in New Orleans.

Connecting Local Artists with National Talent

The primary goal of the Blue Roses Project is to connect local New Orleans artists with theater professionals from across the United States. This initiative presents an invaluable opportunity for queer playwrights to craft authentic and contemporary plays that reflect their experiences. Glick emphasized the urgency of this mission, stating, “Blue Roses Project is vital because it provides a safe, affirming space for LGBTQ+ voices to create, explore, and share stories at a time when queer narratives are increasingly under threat.”

By uplifting underrepresented voices, the project not only fosters empathy but also strengthens community ties, ensuring queer stories remain both visible and celebrated.

Notable Board Members and Their Contribution

The Blue Roses Project’s commitment to the LGBTQ+ community is underscored by its board of directors, which includes notable figures such as Tony award-winning actress Celia Keenan-Bolger, co-showrunner and writer of Dear White People Jaclyn Moore, and producer of A Strange Loop Dale A. Mott. Apollo Theater director Kelley Nicole Girod, Broadway publicist Shane Marshall Brown, and Not-For-Profit CEO David Emond also contribute their expertise to this groundbreaking initiative.

Groff himself commented on the project’s mission: “I’m honored to be a part of a project so dedicated to fulfilling a crucial need in our theatre community. Blue Roses Project provides resources so playwrights’ imaginations can flourish in a place with a rich cultural legacy.”

Addressing Current Challenges and Goals Ahead

The inception of the Blue Roses Project comes at a critical time for the LGBTQ+ community, particularly in light of post-COVID budget challenges and the increasing number of anti-LGBTQ+ bills introduced across the country. To combat these challenges, the Blue Roses Project plans to host a 29-hour workshop within the next year. This will create vital connections between local and nationally-renowned actors and enhance collaborations with LGBTQ+ organizations throughout New Orleans.

In an era where expression and representation are more important than ever, the Blue Roses Project aims to provide a sustainable platform for queer voices. By supporting local talent and promoting their stories, this initiative stands as a beacon of hope and resilience within the theater community.

By celebrating the intersection of art and activism, the Blue Roses Project is poised to make a lasting impact—ensuring the vibrant voices of the LGBTQ+ community continue to thrive and resonate in the theatrical landscape.

For more information about LGBTQ+ initiatives in the arts, you might find the Broadway Advocacy Coalition and The Trevor Project to be valuable resources. Now, let’s continue to uplift and support the rich diversity that fuels our creative spaces.