The Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts will present “It Gets Better,” which uses the universal foundation of music to educate and enlighten people about the struggles of LGBTQ youth, on Saturday, June 16 at 7:30 p.m. in the Marshall E. Rinker Sr. Playhouse. Tickets are $32.
The “It Gets Better” project began in 2010 after writer Dan Savage and his husband, Terry Miller, created a YouTube video in which worldwide supporters assured LGBTQ youth who felt bullied that “it gets better.” The grassroots campaign has evolved into a week-long residency in which local students work with national representatives, including members of the Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles, on anti-bullying, self-image, tolerance and acceptance.
The cast of “It Gets Better” travels to communities nationwide and produces a week of educational workshops, culminating in a moving musical theater performance. Through laughter and tears, the stage show brings to life real-life stories from lesbian, gay, transgender, gender-queer and straight allies from across America and infuses them with dynamic musical numbers.
In addition to its ongoing live performance by the “It Gets Better” cast of professional artists, the dynamic musical includes recorded student material — poems, songs, skits and more — from the collaborative events at the Compass Community Center. The performance combines live actors and dynamic, multimedia presentations into one ultimate expression of hope and action. In addition, there will be a “talk-back session” immediately following the performance.
Guests will receive a ticket voucher for one complimentary beverage. Underage guests will be offered a non-alcoholic selection. This PEAK performance is made possible by a grant from the MLDauray Arts Initiative in honor of Leonard and Sophie Davis.
Prior to the performance at the Kravis Center, “It Gets Better” is collaborating with the Compass Community Center, the Stonewall National Museum & Archives and the KOP Mentoring Network to present a five-day Project Residency June 12-16.
Tuesday, June 12 from 6 to 7 p.m.: “Journey” at the Stonewall National Museum & Archives (2157 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors). This is an open forum of inquiry and dialogue as cast members share personal stories and reflections about “It Gets Better.”
Tuesday, June 12 from 6 to 9 p.m.: Karaoke Night at the Book Cellar (801 Lake Avenue, Lake Worth). A fun evening full of musical expression in a judgment-free space.
Wednesday, June 13 from 10 to 11:30 a.m.: “It Gets Better” Workshop with the KOP Mentoring Network. Members of the cast will work with a small group of KOP Mentoring Network kids to create a video PSA.
Wednesday, June 13 from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.: “Journey” at the Compass Community Center (201 N. Dixie Highway, Lake Worth). An open forum of inquiry and dialogue as cast members share personal stories and reflections about “It Gets Better.”
Wednesday, June 13 from 4 to 6 p.m.: World Café Workshop at the Compass Community Center (201 N. Dixie Highway, Lake Worth). This workshop will explore the beliefs, attitudes and behaviors in the community toward LGBTQ people and particularly LGBTQ youth, while aiming to identify solutions and create an action plan for creating positive change in Palm Beach County. Educators, parents, student leaders, elected officials, law enforcement, artists and business professionals are all encouraged to attend.
To learn more about the “It Gets Better” Project Residency, visit www.compassglcc.com/youth-program/it-gets-better.
Tickets to see “It Gets Better” are available for purchase online through the Kravis Center’s official web site at www.kravis.org; in person at the box office, located at 701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach; or by phone at (561) 832-7469 or (800) 572-8471. For group sales, call (561) 651-4438 or (561) 651-4304.
