Exploring Hollywood’s Queer Stuntmen: Inside ‘Happy Fall: A Queer Stunt Spectacular’

The theatrical landscape of Los Angeles is set to be invigorated with the premiere of Happy Fall: A Queer Stunt Spectacular. This groundbreaking production, created by the Rogue Artists Ensemble, is a vivid exploration of the lives of two queer, closeted stuntmen navigating the treacherous waters of Hollywood’s faux masculinity. The production, which is based on true-life stories and direct testimonies, promises to be a poignant tribute to the resiliency of the LGBTQIA+ community.

The Journey of Happy Fall

The journey of Happy Fall began with a reading in March 2022 in the City of Culver City, followed by workshops in May 2023 in West Hollywood and April 2024 at the Skirball Cultural Center. The production is a collaborative effort between the Rogue Artists Ensemble, the Los Angeles LGBT Center, and the Contemporary American Theater Festival. The previews started on August 10, 2024, with the official premiere on August 22, 2024, at the Renberg Theatre in the Lily Tomlin/Jane Wagner Cultural Arts Center.

The production is directed by Sean Cawelti, with a cast led by David Ellard, Kurt Kanazawa, and Amir Levi. The ensemble also includes Carlos R. Chavez, Gabriel Croom, Kelsey Kato, Maia Luer, Candy Pain, Tiana Randall-Quant, and Jerry Zou. The production features life-size and miniature puppetry, live video, cinematic illusions, and physical acts, creating a unique and immersive theatrical experience.

Exploring Themes of Identity and Resilience

Happy Fall delves deep into the themes of racial and cultural identity within the Hollywood industry. It uncovers the real price of love and the importance and danger of being true to oneself. The production illuminates the struggles and triumphs of the LGBTQIA+ community, offering a raw and unfiltered look at the complexities of queer love in the world of stunt acting.

The production’s suitability suggestion includes strong language, sexual content, simulated consensual sexual power dynamics, simulated violence, and hate crimes. This unflinching portrayal of the harsh realities faced by the queer community is both a tribute to their resilience and a call to action for greater inclusivity and understanding.

The Creative Process and Technical Aspects

The Rogue Artists Ensemble is known for its innovative approach to theater, blending traditional puppetry, mask work, dance, music, and modern technology to create what they call “Hyper-theater.” The development of Happy Fall involved extensive research and interviews with the LGBTQIA+ stunt community, as well as taking stunt classes to develop the concept and script.

The production features hyper-masculine action figures from the 1980s, cast in expanding polyurethane foam, and manipulated through wires and rods. The larger puppets require three puppeteers to operate, creating an eerily human effect. The support from the National Performance Network’s Creation and Development Fund was crucial in bringing this ambitious project to fruition.

Our Advice on the City

For those visiting Los Angeles to catch Happy Fall: A Queer Stunt Spectacular, we recommend exploring the vibrant arts and culture scene of the city. The Los Angeles LGBT Center, where the production is being staged, is located in the heart of Hollywood, offering a plethora of nearby attractions.

Travel Tip for Occasional Travelers: Make sure to visit the Advocate & Gochis Galleries at the Lily Tomlin/Jane Wagner Cultural Arts Center. The galleries are hosting a visual mixed media art exhibit titled “Take/Action: Stunts, Spectacle Queer History in Hollywood,” which examines the role of action stars through a queer lens. The gallery is open 45 minutes before each performance, offering interactive photo opportunities and a chance to immerse yourself in the history of Hollywood stunts.

Travel Tip for Expert Travelers: For those who have already explored the main attractions, consider attending one of the post-show discussions or affinity events. These events offer deeper insights into the themes of the production and provide an opportunity to engage with the artists and creators. For instance, the post-performance discussion with the LA Guild of Puppetry on September 7th will delve into the intricate puppet designs created for Happy Fall.

In conclusion, Happy Fall: A Queer Stunt Spectacular is more than just a theatrical production; it is a powerful narrative that challenges societal norms and celebrates the courage of the LGBTQIA+ community. Whether you are a casual theater-goer or a seasoned traveler, this production offers a unique and thought-provoking experience that is not to be missed.