Free your evening August 16th for a night of "breathtaking art and theatre cabaret" – and a very worthwhile cause. The Arrata Opera Cenrte (1315 7th Street SW) will play host to the Miscellaneous Youth Network’s second annual gala: RISEN 2012..

The unique show offers youth and young adults in the queer community an opportunity to "share their stories of homophobia and trans-phobia in schools and in their lives"; their reflections on what it’s like growing up "queer in the city".

"We had about seventy people out at our show last year, this year we’re projecting over a hundred," says Programming Director for MYN, Justine Bonczek. "Calgary has an amazingly supportive community, and we’re so excited to debut our show."

Last year’s gala raised just over $2,000 for the Network, all of which went into renting space for the MYN run Mosaic Youth Group and Mosaic programs. Roughly 25-30 youth attend Mosaic gatherings every week, and even more come out to special events. The Queer Prom saw over 200 attendees in June and MYN’s monthly drag show usually draws an audience of 50 to 60 people.

MYN also requires funding for resource material, speaker sessions and fun outings for the kids – like trips to Calaway Park in the summer.

"Our kids are so powerful and they’re growing tougher every day," Bonczek says.  "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."

RISEN will put to the stage and display works by passionate local artists and performers keen on sharing their message with Calgary.

MYN held two sets of auditions to determine who would be performing at this show. Selections were made based on the relevance performers’ work had with the show’s theme.

"Risen isn’t so much a fundraiser as it is a chance to bring the community together to connect with the youth and listen to their stories in a completely unique and individual fashion," Bonczek says. "These are the stories that we need to share, and as a community, it’s our responsibility to give them a place to share their voice as they step out of the closet, regardless of where they are on their journey."

In addition to Mosaic the not for profit MYN also runs the Kids Zone for the Pride Street Festival every year. The Network is dedicated to providing safe places for queer youth throughout the city.

Tickets to RISEN are $10 in advance or $15 at the door and can be bought at DevaDave Hair and Salon Boutique (810 Edmonton Trail Northeast).