Outside of Drag, I continue my design efforts into theatre. Most recently, I have been able to practice my craft with this semesters Mainstage production of Larry Kramer’s play The Normal Heart here at SUNY Fredonia.
Upon indication that this would be my design assignment for my senior year, I was originally not enthusiastic with it. After being a designer for a very unconventional and elaborate production that had much artistic freedom with Qui Ngyuen’s She Kills Monsters: Virtual Realms, moving into a distinctly historical production seemed boring.
However, there was much value learned from working on this show. This show represents a marginalized community of the LGBTQ+ and a rather taboo topic of HIV and Aids that is often hidden from the media. The Normal Heart paved the way for future productions to represent these communities and ideas.
As I continued my work in this show, I have developed a deeper understanding of what this show’s primary message is and its implications to a modern audience. There is much to be discovered within the script and there are deeper messages that once read will change entire perspectives.
At the end of the progress I was very grateful for this opportunity to learn and grow as a young, queer artist. Because of people like Larry Kramer, I am able to do what I want to do and I can continue this legacy for others like me.