Nearly two months after Orlando Fringe canceled its LGBTQIA+ theater festival Out Fest, The Center is now launching a new endeavor that may fill the empty space.
The Center Orlando announced Wednesday it’s launching Q Fest, an interactive LGBTQ+ theater and film festival.
Set to take place over four days from Nov. 13 to 16 at The Center, Q Fest will focus on queer artists and stories with a slate of live performances, film screenings and community events, the organization says.
“Q Fest is more than just a festival; it’s a vital platform for our community to see themselves reflected in art and to engage with the stories that matter to us,” said George Wallace, CEO of The Center Orlando.
Orlando Fringe in late July announced Out Fest would not return this year, after debuting for its inaugural run in 2024. It comprised three days of shows that celebrated queer stories, history and artists. Despite initial challenges, the festival garnered positive reviews and was previously scheduled to return this September.
“Unfortunately this year, we have carefully considered all possibilities of producing this event, but the truth is we are still trying to build a Fringe that we can sustain for the long haul,” Orlando Out Fest said in a statement in July. “For us that means being honest about what we can take on right now and making decisions that keep us moving forward in a real and responsible way.”
Tickets for Q Fest go on sale Sept. 12 at Eventenly or on The Center’s website. A portion of all sales will directly benefit The Center.
The show lineup is as follows.
Films:
A Day in the Life of Miss Sammy (two screenings)
Wanzie With a “Z” (two screenings)
Greetings From Queertown (two screenings)
Theatre:
Tymisha Harris, TBD (two shows)
P Sparkles, TBD (two shows)
Drag Queen Story Time: After Dark (one show)
Miah in Love (two shows)
Professor Love’s Midnight Spectacular (two shows)
Blacklist Babes Burlesque (two shows)
Spooky & Gay Vol. II (two shows)
Just Dempsey! (two shows)
Nick Comis Magic/Illusions (two shows)
Big Gay Variety Show (one show)
Queer Up/Natalie Doliner: What Is Remembered Lives (two shows)
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