Photo Credit: Kolton Krouse Instagram

GONE TOO FAR

In what’s been a hateful reality growing louder against the transgender community, “Death Becomes Her” performer, Kolton Krouse, will no longer take up curtain calls at the end of each show. With New York City being the only true safe haven for the LGBTQIA community, and in Hell’s Kitchen of all places where Broadway is, now that growing hate has sadly hit home. Kolton says the stage has felt like home since he was 9 years old, but now that space is unsafe, also saddening Kolton that he now feels that same stage space is unwelcoming. Kolton has full-on support from the casts and producers of “Death Becomes Her” to take this stand against trans hate, and will continue to perform entirely in this Broadway production.

For roughly a year and a half, we’ve seen all too well the increasing boycott of LGBTQIA representation. Thanks to a Bud Lite homosexual campaign where beer drinkers spoke with their wallets, thanks to conservatives creating this firestorm. Other brands and even safe-haven Target followed suit in fear of backlash by their customers, as well and transgender and LGBTQIA rights now being limited. It’s hit home here in New York City even more when Stonewall, the famous place where pride month was born has removed the word “Transgender” ever being mentioned, in fear of or aligning with Trump policies.

Those who are non-binary male or female, transgender man or woman, gay or lesbian for sure fear the loss of rights and privileges that are even in the smallest and safest spaces we call home. Kolton Krouse who’s performances are not only evident in “Death Becomes Her”, are also present as he teaches dance at Steps On Broadway, showing off who his true identity is, without concealing it. And inspiring others to not be afraid to express their true identity while they dance.

Transients and fluidity are the only things that make freedom possible, the freedom to be the sexuality that we truly identify with, not what we are born with. Unfortunately, these same transients make hate grow louder from those opposed to any sex other than male or female, and it’s not used to unite and make love, but to divide, divert, and create hate. Taking a stand to forgo the final bow is of course painful for Kolton Krouse where he can’t reveal or be proud of the fact that he’s part of the cast. But it can only grow louder the movement where you must take a stand against those who hate on the LGBTQIA community, especially its family that include trans women and men, plus binary and non-binary male and female.

**** Personal Recommendation from DANIEL PLUS LAUREN: There’s also another safe space where all are welcomed to come as they are without fear, judgement, or hate. It’s “The Cabaret Burlesque” at Broadway Dance Center. Classes are taught every Tuesday night at 9PM New York time. Not only are you welcomed, but you are free to be your true identity, and tell your story.****

DANIEL QUINTANILLA