LOUD’s mission is to utilize ensemble theatre to cultivate tools for self-expression, develop an intersectional analysis of oppression and build community through devising and producing original theater.
We are guided by four core values: undoing oppression, youth leadership, solidarity and a commitment to devised theater. Our members are outspoken, unapologetic queer and trans* youth who come together in solidarity to build community and control the narratives shared about their lives. In a city with limited access to queer safe space, LOUD’s ensemble creates a much needed community in New Orleans.
LOUD produces two shows a year that are developed through a rigorous, youth-led ensemble process, highlighting themes such as police violence, intersectional identity, combating injustice and building solidarity. Our inaugural ensemble, formed in January 2013, premiered Beyond Acceptance to sold out audiences and instigated a rich and ongoing dialogue about LGBTQIA+ identities and experiences.
In addition to new work creation, LOUD has continued to act on its mission through guest workshops, field trips and expanding youth performance opportunities outside of rehearsals. Guest workshop topics have included Gender 101, know your rights, queer sex ed, intersectionality and spoken word. Many of the workshops have been led by local youth and adult queer/trans* leaders.
Currently LOUD is transitioning from an adult led youth program to a youth led adult supported theatre ensemble. In the past two years we have hired and trained 4 youth from our community to come on ass staff and lead the ensemble in the coming years.
LOUD structure
This year, we are halfway through a two-semester creation process: in our first semester we held workshops and rehearsals based around our values of intersectionality and undoing oppression. Everyone in our ensemble had the opportunity to lead a session based on a related topic of their choice. Topics included queer and trans* representation in the media, employment discrimination, and exploring the Black Lives Matter movement through poetry. In our second semester we are focused on dramatising these conversations through devising and other theater techniques, culminating in a second public performance in May.
More About Loud
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Production History
Find out more about Beyond Acceptance and our new play in development!
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Our Core Values
Our values guide us. Solidarity. Undoing Racism. Devised Theater. Youth Leadership.
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Ensemble Guidelines
Guidelines for our ensemble members, co-producers, and guest artists to uphold.
Our Staff
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Ross R. Ross
CO-DIRECTOR
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Laura EKUA
OPERATIONS & DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
