The Role of Canadian Queer Theater Festivals on Queer Identity and Expression

This study examines the role of Canadian queer theater festivals as unique sites of adult education and social movement learning. Traditionally, social movement learning has focused on informal mentoring or formal instruction in protests, workshops, and lectures, aiming for mass societal transformation. However, newer approaches emphasize personal transformation, with social movements adopting adult education to impact social, political, and cultural life. Theater festivals, especially those centered on queer themes, offer inclusive, accessible, and engaging platforms for sharing experiences, dialogue, and collective social change efforts. These festivals facilitate active learning through workshops, performances, and discussions, allowing participants to engage with social issues creatively. Despite extensive research on Pride festivals, queer theater festivals have been largely overlooked in scholarly discourse. This qualitative study focuses on how attendees of Canadian queer theater festivals learn about queer identities, exploring three key areas: queer culture, identities, and intersections.