Causing a Scene: 24 - Hour Queer Theatre

Plug and play

It is 6:00 p.m. The writers, directors, and actors gather. Each actor brings a prop, and each director provides a dialogue. And then a drawing determines the genre of the play.

The process then begins with speed dates where writers meet directors, followed by meetings between directors and actors. After the initial introductions, each writer chooses a director, and the directors select their cast.

From there, the challenge begins: the writers work through the night, until 7am, to write a 10-minute piece that incorporates the genre, prop, and dialogue. Then, the directors and actors take over and rehearse from 8am to 4pm. In the middle of the day, the producers come in to gather any supplies, such as specific set pieces or props. In the afternoon, each team gets a 20-minute technical rehearsal on stage. The pieces must be “plug-and-play,” meaning they can be set up and taken down in just 5 minutes.

Fast learners

Actors must be quick learners, ready to make bold choices, memorize lines, move into character, rehearse and perform – all within 12 hours. By the time the show starts, they will be performing live in front of an audience. In other words: a challenging experience that pushes participants to their creative limits.

Brave Space is an innovative storytelling platform that celebrates courage, experimentation and inclusivity. In partnership with Theater Bellevue and Backlash Media Productions, the platform invites storytellers to share fresh, untested ideas in a safe, supportive environment.

As part of this initiative , 24-Hour Queer Theatre offers drama and theatre students a unique opportunity for hands-on experience, allowing them to act, write or direct in a real-world setting.

For experienced theatre professionals, the festival offers a challenge to work within the dynamic 24-hour format or try out a new role. Brave Space fosters creativity and growth, making it the perfect environment for exploration and skills development.