In a bold and necessary move to uplift queer voices in American theater, Étoile star Gideon Glick and producer-director James Will McBride have launched the Blue Roses Project—a not-for-profit theater initiative rooted in New Orleans. And with Tony Award-winning actor Jonathan Groff joining the board, the project is already turning heads across the theater world.
At its core, the Blue Roses Project aims to connect LGBTQ+ playwrights with theater professionals nationwide, cultivating authentic, modern queer stories through workshops, partnerships, and creative collaboration—all against the rich cultural backdrop of New Orleans.
Why the Blue Roses Project Matters
In a time when LGBTQ+ narratives are under increasing attack—through both cultural censorship and anti-LGBTQ+ legislation—projects like this become not just artistic ventures, but lifelines.
As Glick put it:
“The Blue Roses Project provides a safe, affirming space for LGBTQ+ voices to create, explore, and share stories at a time when queer narratives are increasingly under threat.”
With the support of high-caliber creatives and activists, this project serves as both an incubator for new queer works and a platform for social impact.
A Star-Studded, Purpose-Driven Board
The Blue Roses Project boasts an impressive board of directors that blends Broadway, film, television, and nonprofit experience. Alongside Jonathan Groff, the team includes:
- Celia Keenan-Bolger – Tony-winning actress
- Jaclyn Moore – Co-showrunner of Dear White People
- Dale A. Mott – Producer of A Strange Loop
- Kelley Nicole Girod – Director at Apollo Theater
- Shane Marshall Brown – Broadway publicist
- David Emond – Nonprofit CEO and consultant
Groff shared his enthusiasm, saying:
“I’m honored to be a part of a project so dedicated to fulfilling a crucial need in our theatre community.”
What’s Next for Blue Roses?
The Blue Roses Project is hitting the ground running. Over the next year, they plan to:
- Host a 29-hour play development workshop
- Foster partnerships with local and national actors
- Collaborate with LGBTQ+ organizations in New Orleans
The project doesn’t just aim to develop plays—it aims to build community, especially within New Orleans’ historically rich but underfunded arts scene.
The Role of New Orleans
Why New Orleans? Because it’s a city of stories—of culture, resistance, and reinvention. The Blue Roses Project taps into this energy, offering queer creatives the space to explore bold narratives grounded in their truth.
Call to Action
Want to see more bold, unapologetic LGBTQ+ stories on stage? Support the Blue Roses Project—by sharing this article, following its founders, or connecting with local theater groups that align with its mission.
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FAQs about the Blue Roses Project
What is the Blue Roses Project?
It’s a nonprofit theater initiative founded by Gideon Glick and James Will McBride, supporting LGBTQ+ playwrights through workshops and collaborations in New Orleans.
Who is involved in the Blue Roses Project?
The board includes Jonathan Groff, Celia Keenan-Bolger, Jaclyn Moore, Dale A. Mott, Kelley Nicole Girod, and others from Broadway and beyond.
Why is the project based in New Orleans?
New Orleans’ cultural legacy, diversity, and storytelling traditions make it the perfect home for nurturing queer voices in theater.
What kind of work will the Blue Roses Project support?
The initiative supports contemporary, authentic LGBTQ+ theater, from early play development to performance-readiness.
How can someone get involved or support the Blue Roses Project?
Visit the project’s official website (coming soon) or follow their collaborators for updates on workshops, fundraisers, and artist opportunities.
