PORT TOWNSEND — In the tradition of legislative theater, the Mandala Center for Change will present “Queer Survival Quest,” an interactive play featuring local LGBTQ+ youth, on Monday and Tuesday.
Eight local youths, ranging from 14 to 22 years old and who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer or gender non-conforming, developed a short play during a weeklong workshop at the center in August.
Two free performances, which promise to differ in some ways, will take place at 6:30 p.m. Monday and Tuesday in the Fort Worden USO Hall at Fort Worden State Park, 200 Battery Way.
The plays will serve as a springboard for public dialogue around issues relevant to their lives — ultimately aimed at proposing new legislation, according to a news release.
As a “twist on Town Hall,” audience members will propose policy ideas and vote for those they wish to see passed during the mock legislation session.
So far, seven local legislators have accepted invitations to attend, according to the release.
Marc Weinblatt, the center’s founder and project facilitator, said he felt compelled to put on the play after attending a rally.
“I was inspired to do this project after hearing several queer and trans youth speak at a local anti-hate rally about their increased fears of survival in the current political climate,” Weinblatt said. “The group that has gathered to do the project is blowing me away with their courage, passion and wisdom.”
For those who cannot attend, both performances will be livestreamed at www.globalconsensus project.org.
The Mandala Center has organized two previous legislative theater projects on the education system and health care access.
For more information, call 360-344-3435 or email info@mandalaforchange.com.
