Beautiful Without Consequence is a full-length fantastical puppet performance about removing the prey mentality from the Queer Black identity. Mimicking the life cycle of a butterfly, this show follows the main character as they change through many physical forms. From a deer, to a fish, to a butterfly, and finally to an entire environment, each form represents a different mentality that I’ve witnessed in the Black Queer community. This show discusses vulnerable topics that are rarely spoken about, even within the Queer and Black communities, in order to remove the stigma and shame around them. Exploring themes of yearning, belonging, internalized homophobia/racism, and poor self-image, Beautiful Without Consequence provides a glittering visual to the ugly impact that white supremacy has on the Black Queer community.
Currently in development- excerpts of Beautiful Without Consequence have been performed at La Mama Experimental Theatre Club, Ann Street Gallery, Dixon Place, BAU Gallery, and Mayo Street Arts
Featured puppeteers: Emily Batsford, Maria Camia, and Thalya David
photos by Richard Termine and Natalie Conn Photography