Youth/Elders Programming

Our focus on intergenerational connections continues with revamped Youth/Elders Programming that brings our community programming back into the theatre, centered around the work happening on and around our stages. Look out for opportunities to see shows, connect to artists, and meet community members. While intergenerational exchange is the underlying theme of the series, Youth/Elders Programming is open to queer folks of any age, and no artistic experience is required.

“One day, if you’re lucky, you too will be a queer senior.”

leZlie lee kam

Buddies’ Youth / Elders Projects are an ongoing response to the need for building intergenerational spaces, conversations, and relationships in our queer community. The program launched in 2016 with a year-long project that culminated in the acclaimed theatrical production The Youth / Elders Project on Buddies mainstage, and continues with a regular program of community conversations, knowledge sharing, the Youth/Elders Podcast, The Rainbow Seniors Showcase, and more.

Photo by Will Pemulis

Youth/Elders Program series 2024

hosted by CAROL THAMES + FRANKI FORTE + JESS DEVITTORIS

The Youth/Elders Program is back for our 2024/25 season!

This season, we’re bringing things closer to home, with monthly conversations attached to the artists, stories, and ideas on our stage. 

Our first session is Saturday, October 5 at Buddies. Join us for the matinee performance of Roberto Zucco at 2PM, then stay for a chat, and chance to connect with community, facilitated by our new YEP coordinators – Carol Thames, Franki Forte, and Jess DeVittoris.

Registration is not required, but does help give us a sense of numbers (so we can buy snacks accordingly!). RSVP below, or e-mail aidan@buddiesinbadtimes.com.

RSVP

You can access $10 tickets for Roberto Zucco for the performance on Saturday, October 5 at 2PM. Just select “supporter 45” as your ticket type, then enter the code “YEP10” at checkout to access the discounted tickets. If cost is a barrier, or if you have trouble booking, contact aidan@buddiesinbadtimes.com.

To sign up for a monthly reminder of these sessions, you can sign up for our intergen mailing list below.

ASL-interpretation is available upon request – please let us know by emailing aidan@buddiesinbadtimes.com , and we will do our best to book.

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The Youth / Elders Podcast

Recorded live at the Oakwood branch of the Toronto Public Library, season one of the podcast features the personal stories, lived histories, and candid conversations from queer elders and youth. Over the course of six months, over 50 people participated as either audience or storytellers exploring ideas of queer history, ageing, identities, and the evolving and intersectional way different generations relate to their queerness.

Season two, featuring conversations recorded during the pandemic, takes a look at personal stories of coming out, navigating identity, and finding home, while also discussing the impact of institutional spaces and activist movements on the very places we find community.

Get more info and subscribe with your favourite podcast app.

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Stay connected

Sign up below for monthly reminders for our YEP sessions, and other intergen and community news.