Queer Fest is back again this summer—bigger and better than ever! Local performers Brando Little and Lisa Michaels have been working tirelessly to bring together talented queer musicians and comics from near and far. The festival now spans over four days (June 27-30) and has added an acoustic show Thursday evening and a brunch show Saturday afternoon which will both be held at Midtown Crossing Grill.
Eleven out-of-town bands are traveling to Memphis to participate including Tom Violence (Nashville), Tears for the Dying (Athens), and Wick and the Tricks (Kansas City). Favorite local acts Dixie Dicks, Gloryholes, Midtown Queer, and Beg (to name a few!) are scheduled as well. In addition, the comedy portion of the festival has been greatly expanded this year, with 10 comics booked including Hann Cowger and Amanda G (both New Orleans) and Jay Jackson (Little Rock). Drag performer MothMothMoth will also be lending her talents in emceeing the show!
The festival will also be more inclusive this year with venues that are all-ages (Midtown Crossing) and 18+ (Hi-Tone). As far as the motivation or spirit behind Queer Fest is concerned we’ll leave you with some words directly from Lisa: “As a queer woman who has been privileged to perform both comedy and music in a city that I love I feel helping with Queer Fest is one way for me to help pay it forward for other queer entertainers. Memphis has been nothing but receptive to me since I’ve arrived here over five years ago. I have developed strong ties with both the comedy and music scenes and I love putting on shows that combine both…I’m all about bringing queer-centric entertainment to Memphis. I want other queer artists to experience what Brando and I both have. Being lovingly embraced by the people of Memphis.”
How can you help?
Want to adopt a musician or a comic for a night? We’re looking for folks who are willing to house an out-of-town performer while they’re in Memphis for the festival. Contact Lisa at lisamichaelshancock@gmail.com or Brando at bfslittle777@yahoo.com.
WHAT: Memphis Queer Fest 2019
WHEN: June 27-30
WHERE: 6/27: Midtown Crossing Acoustic Show, 8-11pm
6/28: Hi-Tone Cafe 7pm-midnight
6/29: Midtown Crossing Grill Brunch Show 2-5pm
6/29: Hi-Tone Cafe 5pm-midnight (music + comedy)
6/30: Dru’s Place 5-8pm (21+)
Festival Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/Memphis-Queer-Fest-775576646161948/
