Last year, Playbill made history with its first-ever commemorative issue celebrating the the dynamic voices of the LGBT community and pioneers of the stage. Nearly 1.3 million Playbills proudly displayed a new rainbow Playbill logo — the first time in our 130 years that we've ever changed our classic yellow logo to reflect a cause.
We're thrilled to return this year for our second edition of #PlaybillPride. Inside the magazine and during our online 30 Days of Pride campaign, we will unveil a whole new array of in-depth, multi-media coverage that will showcase the individuals who are affecting change in our community and the world at large.
Key components of #PlaybillPride and our 30 Days of Pride coverage are profiles of eight groundbreaking theatre individuals whose contributions to LGBTQ activism have been exceptional, unique and immeasurable. For each honoree, we asked a high-profile individual uniquely connected to the recipient, to write their thoughts on why this person is so vital to the LGBTQ community.
Director Joe Mantello interviews the fiercely defiant Larry Kramer, whose voice inspired a generation of activists; Judith Light writes about Tom Viola, who stepped forward to lead our community in a time of crisis; Billy Porter spotlights Harvey Fierstein, whose humanity and humor gave a voice to those unable to speak for themselves; Civil rights pioneer Edith Windsor profiles Lisa Kron, whose unwavering belief that Broadway was ready to see a lesbian character drives the narrative of a new musical; Funny man Nathan Lane celebrates Terrence McNally, who gave audiences the guts to turn tears into laughter; Charles Busch explores the fearless Alan Cumming, who shattered our notion of sex and labels; Audra McDonald shares the story of parents like Seth Rudetsky and James Wesley, who prove that all kids need is a stable home with loving parents; Telly Leung interviews George Takei, who is living proof that it is never too late to be who you are and stand up for what’s right; and Stephen Spinella reflects on Tony Kushner, whose poetry so beautifully defined the possibility of a future in the face of mortality. These individuals and so many more dedicated their lives to dream a world onstage that shaped the one in which we live. Although our online and print initiative celebrates LGBTQ Pride, it is dedicated to all who believe in progress and support the advancement of equality, without borders or limitations. They say it takes a village... On Broadway, it takes a chorus. Join us as we celebrate all those who raise their voices in the spirit of diversity, equality and... harmony.
Share your pride by taking a picture of your Pride Playbill and tell us your personal stories of love, acceptance and pride. #PlaybillPride
Visit Playbill Pride for more stories and information.
