Get your calendars out and start circling dates, because we've lined up the best LGBTQIA+ music shows in San Francisco this April! We're talking cabarets, film screenings, and everything in between. This isn't just about having a good time (although those are guaranteed!). These events are all about finding your tribe, celebrating who you are, and standing up for what you believe in.
Check out our favorite San Francisco events in April below. They're sure to make you feel proud, connected, and totally inspired.
1. THEYFRIEND Nonbinary Cabaret: April Edition
When: Thursday, April 18, 2024 At 7:30pm
Where: Brava Theater Center, San Francisco
If you loved the THEYFRIEND Festival, this cabaret is your chance to keep the celebration going year-round. April's lineup is packed with powerhouse performers, including comedian Vin Seaman, drag artist Jota Mercury, the mesmerizing music/video fusion of Xtra.dae, and poet Alder Duan Hurley.
2. The Pride Of Lions (World Premiere!)
When: March 28th - April 21st, 2024
Where: Theatre Rhinoceros, Castro District, San Francisco
Nonbinary playwright Roger Q. Mason sheds light on a pivotal moment in LGBTQIA+ history with "THE PRIDE OF LIONS." Based on the 1928 arrests of female impersonators working on Mae West's "The Pleasure Man," this immersive production reveals the persecution faced by early queer artists.
The Pride of Lions takes you into their jail cell the night they're arrested for performing in a groundbreaking play. This diverse group of drag queens and trans women are defiant, funny, and determined to live their truth. Their story is a fight for respect, a celebration of identity, and a powerful reminder that LGBTQIA+ people have always existed, creating art and making a difference, even in the face of oppression.
3.Gay Chorus Deep South (Film Screening)
When: Thursday, April 11 AT 7:00 PM
Where: The Chan National Queer Arts Center, San Francisco
Witness the power of music to bridge divides in this 5th Anniversary screening of the acclaimed documentary, "Gay Chorus Deep South." Following the 2016 elections, the San Francisco Gay Men's Chorus and the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir embarked on a tour through the American South. Their goal? To spread a message of love and acceptance through song, even in places where LGBTQIA+ rights face opposition. This film chronicles their journey, their poignant performances, and the profound conversations sparked along the way.
4. The Tutor
When: April 5th - May 12th, 2024
Where: New Conservatory Theatre Center, San Francisco
A captivating play exploring love, identity, and the challenges of living authentically, The Tutor tells the story of Kavyon, a newly married man who brings his wife home to the Bay Area from Iran. Things seem perfect until he asks his female friend Azar to tutor Baran. Suddenly, sparks fly between Baran and Azar, leading them down a path of passionate love neither expected. This thought-provoking play offers a nuanced look at the complexities of love and self-discovery within the LGBTQIA+ community. See the play and support vital artistic spaces that give voice to these important stories.
5. What a Wonderful World: 25 Years of Song!
When: Saturday, April 13 at 7:30 pm (Oakland) & Sunday, April 14 at 4:00 pm (Walnut Creek)
Where: Montclair Presbyterian Church, Oakland | Del Valle Theatre, Walnut Creek
The Oakland Gay Men's Chorus is celebrating a major milestone, and we're invited to the party! "What a Wonderful World" marks their 25th anniversary with a concert full of inspiring music. You'll hear favorites like "Seasons of Love" and "True Colors," along with the world premiere of a moving new work called "Earth Song." This special song celebrates unity and strength, a perfect tribute to the chorus's journey. Join them for a night celebrating diversity, resilience, and the beautiful power of music to bring us together.
7. BARS Spring Concert 2024
When:
Saturday, April 13th at 7:30 PM (Taube Atrium Theatre)
Sunday, April 14th at 2:30 PM (Dinkelspiel Auditorium)
Where:
Taube Atrium Theatre, San Francisco
Dinkelspiel Auditorium, San Francisco
The Bay Area Rainbow Symphony (BARS) invites you to experience beautiful music performed by talented LGBTQIA+ musicians. This special concert in San Francisco, led by guest conductor Paul Phillips, features a delightful mix of works, including:Benjamin Britten's Sinfonietta, Camille Saint-Saens Violin Concerto (starring soloist Michael Long), Wang Lu's Surge, and William Dawson's Negro Folk Symphony.
7. Willow Pill presents God's Child
When: Wednesday, April 3rd
Where: Palace of Fine Arts, San Francisco
RuPaul's Drag Race star Willow Pill is bringing her hilarious new show to San Francisco! "God's Child" is a wild, funny, and totally unexpected look at her life. Think crazy stories, over-the-top outfits, and a whole new way of looking at religion.
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Tell your friends, pick your favorites, and support the work of these talented artists! Share these San Francisco LGBTQ events on social media, attend with enthusiasm, and let's celebrate the diverse, creative, and resilient spirit of the Bay Area LGBTQIA+ community. Our presence, our support, our voices – they all make a real difference.