A stirring film that shows the positive effects of human connection and understanding, and the undeniable power of music, the Melbourne Queer Film Festival has announced the critically acclaimed Gay Chorus Deep South will open the 30th MQFF at Village Jam Factory on Thursday 12 March 2020.
In response to a wave of discriminatory anti-LGBTQ laws in Southern states and the divisive 2016 election, the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus (SFGMC) led by the charismatic Conductor Dr. Tim Seelig, embarked on a tour of the American South to bring their unique and powerful voices of love and acceptance to an area deeply divided by anti-LGBTQ+ laws.
From Mississippi to Tennessee, North and South Carolina, the choir is joined by The Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir on a mission to overcome prejudice and fear. Over 300 singers performed in churches, community centers and concert halls in hopes of uniting people in a time of difference.
Directed by David Charles Rodrigues, Gay Chorus Deep South follows Seelig, who was ejected from his Texas Church when he came out as gay, and a number of Chorus members who fled the South, to confront their own fears, pain and prejudices on a journey towards reconciliation.
Performing in religious institutions, whose doors are often barred to LGBTQ+ people, the choirs are determined to bring the house down with their magnificent voices. The conversations and connections that emerge offer a glimpse of a less divided America, where the things that divide us; faith, politics, sexual identity are set aside by the soaring power of music, humanity and a little drag.
“What makes the film emotionally satisfying, beyond the stirring music, is that we witness the healing and enlightenment of chorus members, some of them bearing scars from their oppressive red-state upbringings.” – San Francisco Chronicle
Celebrate 30 years of world class LGBTIQ+ cinema in style as MQFF kicks off its 30th festival with the Melbourne premiere of Gay Chorus Deep South at Village Jam Factory on Thursday 12 March 2020 – the screening also includes entry to the famous Opening Night Party. For more information, visit: www.mqff.com.au for details.
Image: Gay Chorus Deep South (supplied)