New Comedy At Luna Stage Offers ‘Gay History For Straight People’

WEST ORANGE, NJ — As part of its American Voices series, Luna Stage in West Orange will present “Hooray For Lady Land! Gay History For Straight People!” from March 14 to 30.

The comedy is written and performed by Will Nolan as his comic alter-ego Leola. It plays Saturday at 8 p.m., Sunday at 3 p.m. and Monday at 7 p.m. (Learn more or purchase tickets)

In the show, Nolan touches on the complexities of the LGBTQYMCA+ community, drawing on his “down-home wit and wisdom” to bring people together while also having some laughs.

According to a news release from the theater:

“Nolan hails from Atlanta and lives in Northern New Jersey with his husband and son. He says the timing for Leola has never felt more right. ‘It’s been a rough couple of years for this country, and trying to figure out a way to make people laugh has been hard. Laughter has such healing capacity, but when nothing in the world seems funny, that can be a challenge. Suddenly, I realized that Leola is the perfect lady to help this country heal. With her proud sexuality, gentle guidance and great sense of style, it just made sense that she would tour this country (at least 3-4 states) and celebrate – not just gay pride or female pride, but human pride. Yes, you’re going to learn some gay history – and will probably need to unlearn some of the gay history she tries to teach (!) – but more importantly, I hope audiences walk away feeling special. Leola’s is a voice that encourages you to be yourself – flaws and all – and to be kind and to laugh. This show is about finding our strength to stand up and fight negativity with love...and the right shade of lipstick.’”

A 2019 BroadwayWorld-Award nominee, Leola is the creation of Nolan, who lives in northern New Jersey with his husband and son. Winner of the Long Island City Flying Solo Festival two years in a row, Leola has appeared across the country in fringe festivals, regional theaters, and middle-aged birthday parties in what’s been called “Dame Edna’s hillbilly cousin giving a TED Talk.”

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