ARTSQUEST CELEBERATES PRIDE MONTH WITH LGBTQ+ FILM SERIES

The Frank Banko Alehouse Cinemas will host free weekly screenings in June 

BETHLEHEM, Pa. – ArtsQuest is proud to announce four feature film screenings for its LGBTQ+ Film Series this June in honor of Pride Month. The Frank Banko Alehouse Cinemas (FBAC) will screen a feature every week at 7 p.m. starting June 7, 14, 21 and 28.Tickets are free and can be reserved at steelstacks.org/film or by calling the ArtsQuest Box Office at (610) 332 – 3378.  For more exclusive ticket access and advance purchase opportunities, become an ArtsQuest Circle donor today.  

Pride (Tues., June 7) is based on the true story of gay and lesbian activists who show support for miners in the 1984 British miners’ strike. Highlighting the struggles and resistance between the two communities as they work to overcome differences and achieve a common goal. Directed by Matthew Warchus, the film was presented as part of the 2014 Cannes Film Festival and won the Queer Palm Award for best LGBTQ+ related film. Prior to the screening special guest Dina Hall will perform. Hall is a singer/songwriter activist rooted in Bethlehem. Over the past two decades, Hall has performed at PRIDE across the entire northeast region. Hall is a leader in the music community striving to create increased opportunities for women in the industry.  

Pier Kids (Tues., June 14) is a documentary directed by Elegance Bratton on the lives of Krystal Dixon, Desean Irby and Jusheem Thorne. On the New York City Christopher Street Pier, Bratton shows the experiences of discrimination and abuse endured by trans and queer people of color who seek autonomy, friendship and a sense of family. The documentary is nominated for a 2022 GLADD Media Award for Outstanding Documentary.  

Shiva Baby (Tues., June 21), centers on college student Danielle’s attendance of her family’s gathering of close friends and family in the traditional Jewish period of mourning known as Shiva. Things become awkward when Danielle discovers her ex-girlfriend and current sugar daddy are both at the Shiva. Shiva Baby is directed by Emma Seligman and is nominated for a GLADD Media Award for Outstanding Film.  

A Night with Curt McDowell (Tues., June 28) Curt McDowell was an artistic director, actor, and writer known for his works including ‘Wieners and Buns Musical’ and ‘Loads’ that celebrate sexual liberation and step out of the box in terms of genre. McDowell died at age 42 from AIDS on June 3, 1987, in San Francisco, California. This film contains adult themes and content and may not be suitable for children under 18.