More Than Just Movies: Upcoming PRIDE MONTH Programs from BAM TALENT

Get ready for some glitter, callbacks, and a whole lot of heart! BAM Talent is thrilled to announce upcoming programs that go beyond mere entertainment, offering vital spaces for self-expression and community building for the LGBTQ+ community right here in Grand Rapids. Get ready for the electrifying energy of a Rocky Horror Picture Show shadowcast brought to you by the incredible Rocky Road Players, and mark your calendars for "NO DAY BUT TODAY: THE 20TH ANNIVERSARY SCREENING OF RENT" – events that weave deeply into the fabric of our shared queer experience.

Why are these more than just movies? Because they're cultural touchstones that resonate deeply with the LGBTQ+ journey.

For decades, The Rocky Horror Picture Show has been more than just a campy cult classic. Its embrace of the unconventional, its playful exploration of gender and sexuality, and its downright refusal to conform have made it a beacon for those who've often felt like outsiders. Stepping into a shadowcast performance by the legendary Rocky Road Players will be like stepping into a world where being different isn't just accepted, it's celebrated. The raucous audience participation, the shared laughter, the collective energy – it all creates a powerful sense of belonging and affirmation. It's a space where you can truly let your freak flag fly, surrounded by others doing the same.

Then there's "NO DAY BUT TODAY: THE 20TH ANNIVERSARY SCREENING OF RENT". This groundbreaking musical brought LGBTQ+ stories, struggles, and triumphs into the mainstream. For many, especially those who lived through the AIDS crisis, Rent isn't a poignant reminder of loss, resilience, and the power of chosen family. BAM Talent's upcoming anniversary screening will offer a space for remembrance, celebration, education, and for continued dialogue about the issues that still impact our community. Sharing this experience can foster empathy across generations and create a powerful sense of solidarity. BAM will be sharing the voices of former cast members and rounding out this event with a preshow surprise.

In a world that doesn't always see us, or worse, actively tries to marginalize us, these types of programming carve out crucial spaces for visibility and celebration right here in West Michigan. They remind us of our history, our strength, and the enduring importance of community. They offer a chance to connect, to laugh, to maybe shed a tear, and ultimately, to feel seen and understood.

BAM Talent is incredibly proud to partner with the esteemed Wealthy Theatre and the vital Grand Rapids Pride Center to bring these meaningful programs to our community. Together, we are committed to fostering inclusive and empowering spaces where LGBTQ+ individuals and allies can come together, celebrate, and connect.

So, mark your calendars and get ready! When you join us for the Rocky Horror Picture Show or "NO DAY BUT TODAY: THE 20TH ANNIVERSARY SCREENING OF RENT", remember it's more than just entertainment. It's a vital gathering place, a celebration of identity, and a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of the LGBTQ+ community. These aren't just movies – they're lifelines, right here in Grand Rapids.