Gay Play Series Under Way in Ferndale

The Gay Play Series has returned to Ferndale for what is no doubt destined to be another successful season.

Who Wants Cake?, the production company behind GPS, has once again joined hands with the to bring the shows to life. Because of the series' wild popularity in 2010, the series has been transformed into a 10-day festival, which began June 17 and will continue through Monday.

“GPS is really designed to give a voice to playwrights writing on gay topics and to give audiences a place to see new gay works,” said Joe Bailey, the theater's artistic director.

From a comedy about parents throwing their daughter a coming-out party to a love story set in the middle of an adult bookstore to a stylized lesbian play based on an original idea of A.A. Milne, GPS promises a little something for everyone.

For those involved, the series is about more than showcasing their creative talents; it is about breaking down barriers and connecting with their audiences.

“I hope that by performing it (GPS), that our fight for marriage equality is brought to the forefront of people's minds,” said Richard Payton, who portrays Stanley in Love Liza? (Block A). “I hope people are reminded that, hey, things are still not how we want them, and there is a fight still to be fought.”

Many of the actors perform in different shows throughout the week, challenging themselves and hoping to make this year’s outing even greater.

“Come on out, support local theater, Ferndale, and your community!” said actress Christa Coulter.

Listed below are the remaining times and dates of the 2011 Gay Play Series:

The Ringwald Theatre is located at 22742 Woodward Ave. Tickets cost $10 per event or $30 for a festival pass. For more information, call 248-545-5545 or visit the Who Wants Cake website.