LGBTQ+ and allied young people across Kentucky have a chance this summer to help build an original musical about American queer history, and organizers say extensive performance experience is not required.

Houses on the Moon Theater Company, in collaboration with History UnErased, Inc., is hosting a four-day creative residency for youth ages 13 to 23 at ACT Louisville. Participants will help shape a new original musical, YOUR HANDS ARE THE ROAD: A Ride Upon the Stage through Queer American History.

The project uses theater to bring often-overlooked stories from queer American history to life. It has been developed with support from the Library of Congress and has engaged students and educators across the country.

The Louisville residency runs July 20 through 23, from noon to 3 p.m. each day at ACT Louisville. Participants must be available to attend all four sessions, and a modest stipend will be provided.

Organizers are seeking a diverse group of actors, singers, dancers, artists, and “deep thinkers” who are interested in exploring how queer history connects to their own lives, identities, and experiences. Through discussion, creative activities, and collaborative theater-making, participants will help shape the future of the musical while exploring questions about identity, history, belonging, and resilience.

“We want to hear how young people relate to our shared queer history, what it makes them feel, what inspires them, and how these stories connect to their own lives,” organizers said.

Applications are now open. The deadline to apply is July 13, and participants will be notified by July 15.

For more information and to apply, visit the Student Residency Application Form.