Événement

The Sons of Tennessee Williams screening at the 2011 Stella Artois QFest

Mardi Gras, drag balls, and politics where else could these elements come together but in New Orleans? Interweaving archival footage and contemporary interviews in the great tradition of films such as "Paris Is Burning" and "The Cockettes," "The Sons of Tennessee Williams" charts the evolution of the gay Mardi Gras krewe scene, illuminating the ways in which its emergence was a seminal factor in the cause of gay liberation in the South. Having come of age in New Orleans in the 1940s and '50s, gay krewe members reminisce fondly about being inspired by the opulence of the Mardi Gras festivities. Krewe members many of them now in their 70s and 80s recount how the krewe scene created a safe space to gather at a time of vice crackdowns on gay clubs and how they became a powerful force in city politics through their activities. As the krewe members aged, their concerns changed, and they discuss the difficulties of dealing with the toll of AIDS and Katrina and of passing the torch to a younger generation. Throughout the decades, however, the lavish balls remain a constant a place where, with oversized wigs and outrageous costumes, these unlikely political activists can strut their stuff in grand style.

The Sons of Tennessee Williams is the official opening night presentation of QFest St. Louis 2011. Director Tim Wolff will attend.

Sponsored by Dennis Gorg, Coffee Cartel, West End Tan and Premium Lounge.