In January 2020, Cardiac Theatre and What It Is Productions launched the first of thirteen podcast dramas as part of The Alberta Queer Calendar Project: a one-year podcast that will feature thirteen new podcast dramas by queer, Albertan writers throughout 2020 and the beginning of 2021.
The podcast’s newest release is historical drama Legislating Love: The Everett Klippert Story by Calgary author, playwright, poet, and professor Natalite Meisner, presented with the generous support of Sage Theatre, who first staged the production in 2018.
Legislating Love is written by Calgary artist Natalie Meisner, and explores the life of another prominent Calgarian, Everett Klippert.
Aspiring historian Maxine is researching Canadian social policy when she discovers the story of Everett Klippert—the last Canadian man jailed simply for being gay. Maxine becomes fascinated with Everett’s case and with discovering the man beyond the headlines. Inspired and captivated, Maxine connects with a senior at a local assisted living facility she knows only as Handsome, one of Klippert’s lovers and perhaps the only person who can truly illuminate the past. At the same time, Maxine is navigating her own new relationship with Métis comedian Tonya. This heartwarming, multi-generational exploration of queer love tells the near-forgotten story of one of Canada’s quiet heroes, and reminds us all that the past must be remembered as we work together for a better future.
The radioplay features the work of Jason Mehmel (director/production coordinator), Kathryn P. Smith (sound designer), as well as actors Jenn Forgie, Matt McKinney, Kevin Rothery, and Kathy Zaborsky.
To celebrate the release of Legislating Love, a virtual listening party will be held on February 13th at 4:30pm. Participants will gather to listen to the episode (4:30pm), followed by a Q&A with members of the cast and crew (at 7:00pm). Details about the episode and the launch party will be made available at sagetheatre.com. Those interested can also purchase the published play script for Legislating Love through the University of Calgary Press.
Episodes of The Alberta Queer Calendar Project are available for free at queercalendar.ca and wherever podcasts are heard. Donations towards the project are gratefully accepted at queercalendar.ca/donate.
