LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER

Like most LGBT youth, I went into high school looking for a place to feel safe and welcomed. And like so many, I found that place in my school’s drama department. It was clear to me from the beginning how powerful a tool the arts were to find acceptance, and to find myself. I went on to turn my passion for this hobby into my career. I went to school for Theatre & Arts Management, started my own company to be able to tell important stories and give opportunities to LGBTQ+ artists and allies. After school, I found myself at Footlights, working along side 100+ arts organizations. In this position, I could really see far and wide the changing effect the arts has on our world.

I write this letter today in my last week as Editor of Footlights and ArtsScene Magazine. I’ve had five incredible years with this company, and I couldn’t be prouder of the work I’ve gotten to do here during that time. This role has given me the chance to see some really enchanting and thought provoking performances that focused on the LGBTQ+ community. I still get chills thinking about Things I Know to be True at Milwaukee Rep.

This issue of ArtsScene Magazine is very special to me. Not just because it’s my last as Editor, but because the theme is so near and dear to my heart. This month took me to Hamburger Mary’s to learn more about the art of drag. It took me to UW Credit Union, to learn about their inclusive initiatives through art for the LGBTQ+ community. It’s taken my writers to all corners of the art world to take a look at what inclusion, diversity, and equity really looks like in the arts. I’m pretty proud of this one.

Although my journey is taking me in a different direction, I’m so excited about what this magazine has become and where it is going. The arts needs a voice, and the themes and issues we’ve tackled so far are just scratching the surface. I am eternally grateful to Steve for taking a chance on some creative kid who had no idea what he wanted to do with his life. Thank you for making space for my voice, and for so many others in the arts community. (And you aren’t getting rid of me that easily! I’ll still be contributing articles from the sidelines!)

And thank you to all of you taking the time to read this publication. For caring about the arts, for caring about the LGBTQ+ community, and helping us share these stories and ideas with the world.

I’m going to end this letter with lyrics from one of my favorite musicals, La Cage Aux Folles. Until next time, thank you for reading. Thank you for caring. Love is love.

There's one life, and there's no return and no deposit; One life, so it's time to open up your closet. Life's not worth a damn 'til you can say, "Hey world, I am what I am!” Ryan Albrechtson ArtsScene Editor