First Comes Love

Out of tragedy, beauty can sometimes follow. A tender memory piece that reflects on the 2016 shooting at the Pulse Nightclub in Orlando, the deadliest incident of violence against LGBTQIA people in US History. The playwright, who was homeless for two years in the Orlando and surrounding areas visited Lake Eola following the shooting at the Pulse nightclub. The community had spontaneously set up candles around the perimeter of the lake as a memorial site for those killed and injured. Miraculously, the popular trumpeter swans of Lake Eola, who normally retire at sundown, created an unforgettable scene with each swan floating in front of a candle, head bowed, in what seemed to be an extraordinary tribute to those lost souls and a comfort to those suffering the loss and grief. The hope is that people who see this play will extend kindness to the LGBTQIA community, all communities and each other. https://www.minnesotafringe.org/2019-show-information/first-comes-love