Misc Youth Network presents Risen, Calgary's Second Annual Queer Youth Art & Theatre Show Released: Monday June 25, 2012 (Calgary, AB) - MiscYouth Perma-link: http://www.gaycalgary.com/n576 [copy]

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Artistic Queer Youth Push Boundaries and Stereotypes - Aug 16th, 2012

The Miscellaneous Youth Network proud to be hosting it's annual breath-taking art gala and theatre cabaret, a unique show celebrating it's second run in Calgary showcasing all artistic mediums with the purpose of inspiring queer youth in Calgary. Flying from the incredible success from 2011, the organizers of RISEN 2012 are proud to be supporting more youth and young adults as they share their stories of homophobia and transphobia in schools and in their lives. The Miscellaneous Youth Network is thrilled to announce they will be celebrating the second annual event in which stories will be shared about growing up queer in our city.  RISEN will be taking place at the Arrata Opera Centre (1315 7th Street SW) at 7PM on Aug 16th, with all proceeds going directly to support queer youth in Calgary.

"Our theme this year for RISEN is 'Resilience.' Our kids are so strong and they're growing tougher everyday. Youth today have more exposure to society than ever, and in between going to school and having labels thrown at them from every direction, they have so much to say about who they are, and what gives them the power to keep being who they are. These are the stories that we need to share, and as a community, it's our responsability to give them a place to share their voice as they step out of the closet, regardless of where they are on their journey." Says Justine Bonczek, Program Director of RISEN. "It's time to for our youth to tell us bullying is, what fear is, what empowerment is and most of all, what strength means to them. RISEN is a celebration of their courage and acknowledges not only their struggle, but the power and strength it took to get them where they are now"

RISEN will feature local artists and performers, all of them passionate about bringing their message to Calgary. "We have amazing response last year, it really overwhelmed us emotionally to know how well received these kids. The community really connected with RISEN", says Bonczek, "Calgary has an amazingly supportive community, and we're so excited debut our show. One of our youngest performers sings while being accompanied by his acoustic guitar about the leaders he's had in his life, and we have an incredible monologue about what it's like to have to face changing genders in high school. We have brilliant stories about kids finding hope and family among their friends and putting themselves through high school, and beautiful modern dance choreography that tells the story of pushing forward and onward always.  It will be an inspiring and amazing evening!"

The Miscellaneous Youth Network is a not-for-profit organization in Calgary dedicated to making safe places for queer youth in Calgary. They run the Mosaic Youth Group, as well as annually running the Kids Zone for the Pride Street Festival every year. Doors open at 7PM at the Arrata Opera Centre (1315 7th Street SW) on Oct 13, 2011. Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 at the door and can be bought at DevaDave Hair and Salon Boutique (810 Edmonton Trail Northeast).

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