On October 1, Qnotes reported that the SC Arts Commission had made a final decision denying funding to two LGBTQ+ related arts organizations: the Greenville Gay Men’s Chorus and Spartanburg’s Proud Mary Theatre Company.
In the thirteen days following, the chairperson of the commission, Flavia Harton of Greenville, who had served on the commission since 2022, stepped down. She cited “personal reasons” for her departure.
Additionally, one of the most vocal anti-LGBTQ+ members of the commission, Russell “Rip” Parks of Easley, who had served as a leader of the Arts Ministry at First Presbyterian Church in Greenville, tendered his resignation to Gov. Henry McMaster, effective October 16.
Parks had been appointed to the commission by McMaster in March of last year. Board members are appointed to three-year terms, meaning Parks served about half of his term. In his letter to the Governor, Parks wrote, “I cannot properly serve this commission in its important mission given the all-consuming time demands that I anticipate in the foreseeable future.”
Meanwhile, after the Arts Commission denied funding, the Greenville Gay Men’s Chorus launched a GoFundMe campaign to offset the denial.
The stated goal of the campaign was a hefty $40,000. As of this writing, the chorus has met the goal, and more. A total of $41,520 has been raised.
Proud Mary has received about $20,000 in donations since the commission’s controversial decision.
Both organizations received public support from numerous South Carolina Upstate arts organizations, including: Centre Stage, SC Children’s Theatre, Spartanburg Little Theatre, Mauldin Theatre Company, The Warehouse Theatre and Greenville Theatre.
One of the supporting groups, Market Theatre in Anderson, is currently running the LGBTQ theme-exploring “Avenue Q” with upcoming shows on Sunday, October 25, and Monday, October 26. Market Theatre receives funding from the SC Arts Commission.
In a statement on its Instagram page, the SC Children’s Theatre said, “As arts organizations across the Upstate, we support the artistry of Greenville Gay Men’s Chorus and Proud Mary Theatre and the LGBTQ+ artists who are an essential part of our community. Art brings us together across differences, gives voice to our experiences, and creates space for everyone to belong. When we support one another, we strengthen the entire arts community.”
The statement further said, “We will continue to show up for Greenville Gay Men’s Chorus, Proud Mary Theatre Company, and LGBTQ+ artists across our community. Attend their performances. Follow and share their work. Support their organizations in whatever way we can.”
The Proud Mary Theatre Company just closed its production of “Stage Fright.” This is the organization’s 10th anniversary season. “Torch Song” is set to be staged next, running from February 19 through February 28.
Next up for the Gay Men’s Chorus is a December 9 concert, “Merry & Bright,” at Greenville Theatre. Visit https://www.greenvillegaymenschorus.com/ for more information.
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