Elegies for Angels, Punks and Raging Queens
Book and lyrics by Bill Russell
Music by Janet Hood
Dates: Friday 23rd May to Saturday 24th May.
Times: All evening performances will begin at 19:30. All matinee performances will begin at 14:30.
Venue: Bellairs Theatre, Ivy Arts Centre
Duration: Approximately 90 minutes with no interval.
GENERAL BOOKINGS FOR THIS PRODUCTION WILL OPEN THURSDAY 1st MAY AT 12:00:PM
Synopsis: Elegies for Angels, Punks and Raging Queens is a powerful and poignant play by playwright and activist, Bill Russell with music by Janet Hood. Seen as an awareness piece, the play draws its inspiration from the NAMES Project AIDS Memorial Quilt.
The play reflects the broad spectrum of people AIDS has both infected and affected, bringing to life a diverse group of people, each offering a personal reflection on love, loss, grief, defiance, and hope. As they navigate their own fears and desires, they grapple with the impact of the epidemic, the stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS, and their collective resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity.
With a raw, emotional, and sometimes humorous tone, Elegies for Angels, Punks, and Raging Queens captures the spirit of activism, survival, and community amidst tragedy. The play not only commemorates those lost to the disease but also honours their fight for dignity and the unbreakable bonds that exist between those who have been marginalised.
Ultimately, it is a celebration of life, love, and the enduring power of the human spirit. This beautiful showcase of storytelling offers a unique opportunity for the Foundation (CertHE) Acting and Foundation (CertHE) Musical Theatre graduating cohort to come together and conclude their year-long training in this final Public Performance Project.
Genre: Drama, musical
Age Recommendation: 14 and above
Setting: Contemporary
This live production features the Foundation Acting and Foundation Musical Theatre (CertHE) graduating students in collaboration with BA Theatre Production and MA Stage Management students.
Director: Ameer Choudrie
Musical Director: Peter Roberts
Set Designer: Ben Roberts
Lighting Designer: Ben Roberts
Sound Designer: Mick Livermore
If you require accessible seating or have any other enquiries including booking difficulties, please email:
[email protected] or call 01483 686876.
This production of Elegies for Angels, Punks and Raging Queens is presented by special arrangement with Music Theatre International www.mti.co.uk
