OUT LOUD is an annual queer arts festival in Long Beach, California, whose mission is to showcase the artistic and cultural contributions of the greater queer community in Long Beach and beyond.
We hope that OUT LOUD may connect older and younger LGBTQ generations, as well as cultivate friendships with the wider community. We want to honor our legacy, share our stories, and spread love and acceptance through the arts.
ORIGINOn Saturday, July 7, 2018, OUT LOUD held its
inaugural event at the Art Theatre of Long Beach, with a reception afterwards at the LGBT Center of Long Beach.
The stage was embraced by art of all descriptions: sculpture, jewelry, glass, paintings, digital work and photography. A large handmade quilt made a stunning backdrop behind the lectern. The program featured poetry, a short dramatic performance, a clip from a film, a speech on queer history, and an awards ceremony.
Over 20 performers and artists participated, and more than 200 people attended. Most notable is that this event was conceived on May 1, and brought to successful exhibition within just two months. Mayor Robert Garcia and then-Lieutenant Governor Gavin Newsom endorsed the event. The event received publicity on 7 media sites.
2019: Queer Futures
The 2019 event has expanded upon the success of the first, and anyone within the LGBTQ+ communities was invited to contribute visual art, literary works, or performances for consideration at the event. OUT LOUD 2019's theme is Queer Futures. A driving question of the festival is: What do queer futures look like, and how do we create them?
The main theatre performance, featuring singers, dancers, poets, and more, will take place from 1:30-4:00 pm at The Art Theatre of Long Beach on Saturday, June 29, 2019. A social reception will follow from 4:00-7:00 pm across the street at The Hangout, featuring a curated art display of 25 artists. This event is free and open to the public.
By highlighting the creative contributions of the queer community, OUT LOUD aims to celebrate diversity, foster appreciation for marginalized groups, and expand an atmosphere of inclusion for all.
“If OUT LOUD can help even one person come out more publicly, live more openly, and look more compassionately at their neighbors, regardless of class, status, race, or any other social marker, I will consider it a success. Combating hatred and bigotry really comes down to one thing: visibility.”
—Dave Russo