And they’re clear that showing a new way to express joy in the church — like twerking — might ruffle some feathers. But that’s not going to stop them from doing it. “To reclaim that space as a gay Black femme person, there’s something incredible about that,” says ASTU.

A behind the scenes shot of Wesley Leonx, Mia Pixley, and Chanelle Ignant rehearsing for the play 'Sanctuary.' — A behind-the-scenes shot of Wesley Leonx, Mia Pixley and Chanelle Ignant rehearsing for the play ‘Sanctuary.’ (pejamane)

In the play, as in life, there will be moments of both pain and joy. But what matters in the end is surrendering to ourselves, finding peace and honoring all of the parts of ourselves, says ASTU: “That’s kind of the journey we go on throughout the play.”

‘Sanctuary’ runs Friday and Saturday, June 14 and 15, at Dance Mission Theater in San Francisco. Admission is free. Details here.

News Daily Newsletter

The Bay

Emma’s Must-Sees

Videos from KQED Live

Donor-Advised Funds

dance mission theaterdance mission theater

New Ways of Expressing Black Queer Joy In the Church