Breaking the Fourth Wall: Amplifying LGBTQ+ Voices
Our newly released documentary “Breaking the Fourth Wall” highlights the vital work of National Queer Theatre (NQT). Their Criminal Queerness Festival at Lincoln Center stages the works of LGBTQ+ artists from nations where homosexuality is currently criminalized.Our doc highlights the stories of three of these LGBTQ+ playwrights from Uganda and Kenya. While shedding light on global homophobia and the resilience of the LGBTQ+ community.
Blake Drummond, our Executive Producer on the film, puts it best,
“We think that LOVE should not be criminalized—and artists from these societies need their voices heard. This is why we wanted to create a piece—a mini-documentary—that showcased the important work NQT does to lift these marginalized voices. If it can happen there, it can happen anywhere. We need to protect LGBTQ+ rights and fight for them as we are a global society.”
Each member of the production team brings a unique perspective on the impact of the documentary and their hopes for the audience:
“Never think your voice can’t make a difference.”
Andrea Munger - Production Coordinator & Producer
“I myself learned so much while being a part of it, and I hope they've also learned about this topic and can share this knowledge with others, because everyone deserves the opportunity to tell their story without fear. Creating a space for discussion and positivity is something I deeply treasure, and I hope this documentary continues the conversation.”
Leslie Cunningham - Supervising Producer
“I would like them to be aware of what is happening in another part of the world.”
Achiro P Olwoch - Director
“Being from a country where homosexuality is criminalized and socially inappropriate, I hope the key takeaway from 'Breaking the Fourth Wall' is that members of the LGBTQ+ community are people just like anyone else—people that want to express themselves and live their lives authentically. I hope that this film garners radical empathy and overall acceptance of each other despite our differences.”
Sydney Otieno - Design & Animation Lead
“To not forget how harsh and unforgiving most of the world still is when it comes to LGBTQ+ rights. Sometimes I feel like I take America for granted on stuff like this and other civil issues, when it could be so much worse.”
Dalmarcus Constance - Illustrator and Animator
“Art and self-expression, and listening to other people’s stories, are key to creating a more compassionate and just world. No one should be allowed to restrict love and the art it helps create.”
Lillian Isabella - Producer
As these brave artists' stories of courage, struggle, and self-expression unfold, this documentary invites us to break down the barriers that divide us and work towards a world where everyone’s voice can be heard.
