SCANDALOUS BOY May 23 to June 28

THEATER EVENT! History. Passion. Power. A Love That Changed an Empire. Be among the first in the world to experience the International Premiere of SCANDALOUS BOY — a bold, contemporary take on one of history’s most legendary love stories. Written by acclaimed Australian playwright David Atfield, Scandalous Boy brings the intoxicating relationship between Roman Emperor Hadrian and the beautiful Antinous into a provocative, 21st-century light — where a statue comes to life and secrets from the past echo into today. “Thoughtful and joyously explicit.” — Sydney Morning Herald “Hugely entertaining, informative, and refreshing.” — Canberra Critics Circle 🎭 Directed by Benjamin Mills, featuring a powerhouse Chicago cast led by Jordan Gleaves (Seven Guitars, Blues for an Alabama Sky) and introducing Jose Alexander Martinez as Antinous. Expect an intimate and immersive theatrical experience—each performance is limited to just 25 audience members, placing you right in the heart of the action. This daring reimagining of ancient queer love and modern power dynamics features bold performances from rising stars in Chicago theater. Behind the scenes, an award-winning creative team brings the story vividly to life with passion and precision. Content Warning: This production includes depictions of sexual content, nonconsensual acts, and physical violence. Viewer discretion is advised.

  • Antonio Cruz, Emiliano Flores, Jordan Gleaves, Jinyue Yuna Hu, and Jose Martinez
  • Benjamin Mills
  • David Atfield
  • 85 minutes
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About Open Space Arts

The QUEER EXPRESSION FILM AND THEATER FEST showcases powerful LGBTQ+ storytelling through five exciting components:

  • Full productions of bold and innovative plays.
  • Staged readings of classic and new plays.
  • Staged readings of winners from our QUEER EXPRESSION WRITING CONTEST FOR STAGE AND SCREEN.
  • In-person screenings of feature films at FACETS in Chicago.
  • A virtual selection of short and mid-length films, available for streaming anywhere.

Learn more about our programs at openspacearts.org.