Visit a queer artist exhibit, go to the Prom, attend a silent disco, check out a historic Detroit gay club

It’s that time of year when our social calendars start begging for relief after all the graduations, weddings, and late spring gatherings, but don’t let that stop you from adding interesting events just for the sake of it. YOU. Free yourself from your editing obligations and attend a special queer art exhibit in Lansing, attend “The Prom!” in Birmingham (and attend a real prom at Affirmations in Ferndale), celebrate the legacy of Detroit’s Club Heaven, or venture out for an evening of food and opera with new friends at a private social club.

1. See a queer art exhibit in Lansing

Venture to Lansing for the LGBTQ+ artist in Michigan exhibition at the Lansing Art Gallery & Education Center, on view through June 29. The free exhibition, co-sponsored by Costumes and the citya non-profit LGBTQ+ rights organization, features the work of local LGBTQ+ artists, including Jenelle Austen, Jacob Converse and cat bath. Artworks include paintings, sculptures, photography, fiber and mixed media pieces focused on LGBTQ+ identity and representation.

Through June 29, Lansing Art Gallery (300 S. Washington Square, Lansing). Learn more about lansingartgallery.org/exhibits/the-lgbtq-artist-in-michigan.

2. Go to “The Ball!” »

“The Prom!” », on stage with Birmingham Village Players Until May 19, this is your chance to relive the teenage drama of high school prom, through the story of high school student Emma, ​​who dreams of taking her girlfriend to the prom . When their plans are thwarted by an intolerant PTA, the community learns a lesson in tolerance and altruism. Producer Laura Quinn said in press materials that the show is an “amazing musical” that shares an “uplifting message of love and inclusiveness.”

There’s Still Time to Buy Tickets to a Real Queer Prom — Affirmation’s Bal ReDeux is scheduled for May 18, offering a chance for a prom night in a queer-affirming space. Buy your tickets on goaffirmations.org/promredeux.

May 3-19, Birmingham Village Players (34550 Woodward Ave., Birmingham). Book your tickets on birminghamvillageplayers.com/the-prom-2024

3. Get in the Groove at a Silent Disco

A few years ago, silent discos were all the rage (quiet), and lately, they seem to be making a comeback. It’s a unique experience, being alongside people who are all in their own little worlds, immersed in a close-up experience with the music playing through each pair of headphones. Come to Fun Girl Dance Co. in Ypsilanti on May 4 to take part in the Cheers to Queer silent disco party experience. It’s a multifunctional space: head to the bar upstairs or the social lounge downstairs when you need a break from the nightclub.

May 4, 7 p.m., Fun Girl Dance Co. (117 Pearl St., Ypsilanti). Learn more about bit.ly/3wckZJ7.

4. Celebrate Club Heaven’s Legacy

Detroit Conservatory of Soundan organization that maintains a music archive focused on preserving and celebrating Detroit music, will present a free panel discussion and storytelling event featuring Club Heaven, the now-defunct legendary gay club, on May 17 at Farmington Hills. “Celebrating Club Paradise” will feature stories shared by former club regulars, a panel discussion with local musicians and artists, a look at the one-of-a-kind sound system created by DJ Ken Collier that attracted a young black queer crowd to the Detroit club at early ’90s and a musical tribute.

May 17, 7 p.m., Hawk Community Center (29995 W. 12 Mile Road, Farmington Hills). Book your free tickets at bit.ly/3y5J0Sz.

5. Spend a memorable evening at the opera

Culture and cannabis meet in the Apotheculture Club The Vixen in Detroit event, which will include a special dining experience and a trip to the Detroit Opera “Clever little vixen” production.

Creative producer James Blaszko, an independent director commissioned by the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts to create a new classical music concert in June with classically trained queens Saphira Cristál and Monét of artists and professionals across the country who are eager to connect and share cultural experiences while being elevated. Our private events include delicious food, multi-genre music and curated conversations, followed by an epic ride on the transportation we offer. which not only offers magnificent music, but also large-scale entertainment!”

May 17, 5 p.m. Tickets include transportation from the club’s private residence to the Detroit Opera House, dinner and opera tickets. Learn more about Apotheculture on Instagram @apothecultureclub. Buy tickets at bit.ly/3Wjm1h3.

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