What's Happening?
Bernard Brown's latest dance project, 'Sissies: Something Perfect Between Ourselves,' was presented on June 20, 2026, at Pieter Performance Space. The performance, funded in part by the Mike Kelley Foundation for the Arts, honors Black queer culture icons
in Los Angeles and beyond. The project combines dance and exhibition, featuring performers like Malachi Middleton and Montay Romero, who explore themes of representation, the AIDS epidemic, and joy. The choreography blends modern, contemporary, vogue, and house styles, creating a narrative that celebrates resilience and community. The performance encourages audience participation, inviting them to reflect on their own queer journeys.
Why It's Important?
The project highlights the importance of representation and community in the Black queer experience. By addressing historical struggles such as the AIDS epidemic and celebrating joy and resilience, 'Sissies' offers a powerful narrative that resonates with many. It challenges traditional categories and encourages a sense of pride in identity, which can inspire broader societal acceptance and understanding. The performance also underscores the role of chosen family in queer communities, emphasizing support and love in the face of adversity. This artistic expression contributes to ongoing conversations about diversity and inclusion in the arts.
