BELFAST — Out in the Open is hosting a Queer Performance Art & Drag Summit on Saturday, May 4, from 9 a.m. - 7 p.m., in Belfast. At this Summit, attendees will have the opportunity to explore the intersections of performance art, drag, and their rural LGBTQ+ experiences.  

“Summits are places to gather in community, (re)connect with and actively queer rural traditions, build relationships and trust among other rural and small town LGBTQ+ people, celebrate and grieve together, and create a roadmap to move us closer to our collectively liberated and joyful futures,” said Out in the Open, in a news release.

COVID testing will occur onsite, masks are required and will be available.
 
This summit is for rural LGBTQ+ people to gather and learn about the history and traditions of drag, to explore and play with different performance mediums, and to establish a deeper sense of belonging within the surrounding rural queer communities. All levels of experience are welcome. This summit is for rural LGBTQ+ folks, ages 18+. Registration for the summit can be found here. 
 
There is a drag and burlesque show at the Basil Burwell Community Theater the evening before (Friday, May 3, from 7 - 9:30 p.m.) featuring the Curbside Queens. Tickets can be found here.
 
No one will be turned away for lack of funds – folks can reach out to Out in the Open for a free ticket, if the cost of attending is a barrier. Drag and performance arts are for everybody, but especially queer bodies.

 
OITO is a multiracial, majority working class organization for & by rural LGBTQ folks, based in Wabanaki Territory in Windham County, Vermont and Waldo & Southern Penobscot counties, Maine. We work locally and regionally throughout northern New England to connect to rural LGBTQ+ people to build community, visibility, knowledge and power.