New LGBTQ+ theatre company, fuelled by founder’s own experiences, will proudly nurture queer talent.
Photography by Boyan Georgiev
Director Andrew Keates has launched Queer Theatre, a London-based LGBTQ+ theatre and production company, dedicated to telling LGBTQ+ stories and nurturing queer talent. Plans are already in motion for a queer playwriting festival, artist showcases, scratch nights, comedy nights and LGBTQ+ networking events; profits will be used to produce and develop new plays and musicals focused on LGBTQIA+ stories.
Starting in September, Queer Theatre will launch 2B: Acting Classes every Monday evening at iconic LGBTQ+ venue, The Two Brewers, Clapham. These sessions will function as a queer acting lab, providing a safe space for LGBTQ+ performers of all abilities and experiences to explore queer material, develop characters and learn new techniques to enrich their careers alongside fellow queer artists. The classes, which aim to foster community and personal growth for LGBTQ+ people in the performing arts, will be facilitated by Keates himself along with special industry guests. Audiences can sign up for the classes on the website and find out more ways to support the company.
This company’s launch is, in part, following a series of significant personal challenges faced by its Artistic Director. After a devastating sexual assault, Keates wants to support other LGBTQ+ individuals through his new company. His extensive background in directing LGBTQ+ plays and musicals and his collaborations with notable queer playwrights and artists, such as Martin Sherman, William M. Hoffman, Matthew Todd, Mark Gerrard and Michael Dennis, underscores his capability to lead this vital cultural initiative.
Keates shared, A year ago, I woke up pumped full of drugs, covered in burns, cuts and bruises, and on the brink of a heart attack after being sexually assaulted. This was not the first time I had found myself in a dangerous situation like this, in part due to my relationship with sex, drugs, alcohol, and traumas which often come from being a member of the LGBTQ+ community, andindeed, working in the performing arts. In that moment, driven by desperation and humility, I did the bravest thing I've ever done - I asked others for help. Recovery came to me through the support of groups and other LGBTQ+ people getting sober and helping one another. I am now nearly a year sober and have learned what makes me happy is helping and working with queer people and creating theatre that tells our truth. I see my experiences and scars as powerful lessons I will use to lead a queer theatre company with authenticity and kindness.
Queer Theatre builds on the rich legacy of Arion Productions, Keates own production company formed in 2012 now rebranded as Queer Theatre, known for its critically acclaimed productions, including the London revival of As Is by William M. Hoffman and the European premiere of Dessa Rose, featuring Cynthia Erivo and Cassidy Janson, Passing By by Martin Sherman and Howard Goodall’s A Winter’s Tale. The company also produced the award-winning Show People Podcast, which is set to make a return later this year produced by Queer Theatre.
To support Queer Theatre, please consider donating by clicking here or to book for 2B: Acting Classes, click here.