After Orlando Tickets

In the wake of the shooting at Pulse nightclub in Orlando, the theater community came together to respond in various ways. From benefit concerts to new works exploring themes of grief and resilience, the aftermath of the tragedy has had a profound impact on the world of theater.

One example of this response was the Broadway for Orlando benefit concert, which brought together over 60 artists from Broadway and other areas of the entertainment industry to perform a variety of songs, including “What the World Needs Now is Love” and “You’ll Never Walk Alone.” The concert raised over $150,000 for the LGBT Community Center of Central Florida, helping to support those affected by the shooting.

Theater companies across the country also produced plays and performances that explored themes related to the tragedy and its aftermath. In Chicago, for example, About Face Theatre staged a production of “Rasheeda Speaking,” a play that deals with issues of race, gender, and power. The play’s director, Awoye Timpo, said in an interview with the Chicago Tribune that the play’s themes were particularly relevant in light of the shooting: “It’s about how people communicate, and how they have different perspectives and experiences. In the aftermath of a tragedy like [Orlando], when we need to come together and support each other, how do we do that?”

Other plays and performances took more direct approaches to addressing the tragedy. In New York City, the The Civilians created “The Abominables,” a verbatim theater piece that draws on interviews with survivors of the shooting, as well as members of the Orlando community. The play explores themes of trauma, healing, and the power of community, and has been praised for its sensitivity and compassion.

Perhaps one of the most significant impacts of the tragedy on the world of theater has been the increased emphasis on diversity and inclusivity. Many theaters and production companies have made a commitment to creating spaces that are safe and welcoming for all members of the LGBTQ+ community, as well as people of color and other marginalized groups.

Overall, the response of the theater community to the shooting at Pulse nightclub has been thoughtful, compassionate, and inspiring. By using their art to grapple with complex issues and promote social justice, artists have demonstrated the power of theater to create change and build resilience in the face of tragedy.