About Face Theatre has been the leader in Chicago‘s theatre scene in terms of producing gay-themed works since its inception in 1995. This summer, the company celebrated its 15th anniversary with the premiere of The Homosexuals.
Now extended by three weeks until August 14, the play has captured audiences with its heartwarming (and at times, heartbreaking) portrayal of a 21st century gay in the Windy City. Complete with shirtless bedtime talks, pop music adoration and dealing with dating two men with the same first name.
Directed by Bonnie Metzgar and written by Phillip Dawkins, The Homosexuals was inspired by The Boys in the Band and takes place in reverse chronological order over the span of the decade. It’s an “exploration of friendship through the lens of sex,” Dawkins told Time Out Chicago. “It’s about friends who fuck.”
The actors playing the friends with benefits include About Face veterans (Patrick Andrews, Benjamin Sprunger) and total newcomers to the Chicago scene (Stephen Cone, named a hot new face in theatre by the Chicago Tribune).
But underneath the covers of Dawkins’ sexy depiction of homo mating rituals, the play explores the definition of friendship, how one must look beyond the stereotypical associations and find his own supportive circle of acquaintances-turned-fuck buddies-turned-friends-turned-lovers-turned-partners – ultimately a hot mess of a stable family.
“I hope the audience feels included in that,” Dawkins continued. “Standing at the precipice and being so fucking scared of your own life that you can’t possibly imagine going forward until somebody takes your hand and says, ‘It’s okay, it’s this way.’ Everybody’s been there, gay or not. At that moment, we’re all homosexuals.”
NewCity‘s reviewer felt the inclusion, calling the play, “a show everyone, even ‘breeders,’ can (and should) enjoy.”
The Homosexuals runs until August 14 at Victory Gardens in Lincoln Park.
Photos courtesy of About Face Theatre.
