In Silky’s words:
I recently read a quote she has about performing: “I try to bring the audience’s own drama – tears and laughter they know about-to them.”
I think this sentence articulates why Judy has remained a poignant and persistent symbol of gay culture for so many years. In her inimitable style, she was able to express the sorrows and joys of a community longing for love and acceptance, often in silence.
This June will mark the 50th anniversary of Judy Garland’s death and also of The Stonewall Rebellion. Queer lore has it that her death was a catalyst that pushed the events of that night into the riots they became. Whether or not this is exactly true, I am interested in considering her role in our culture as an icon, an artist, and a flawed/fallible human.
This show will feel not so much like a gallery space as the intimate habitat of a devotee/collector/fan. Opening night on Saturday, March 2nd will go from 7-10pm, with snacks and a performance of Judy standards at 8pm by John King of
Hello Lovers.
This project is supported in part by the Cultural Arts Division of the City of Austin Economic Development Department.
