CMU School of Drama


Friday, March 10, 2023

Billy Porter to bring ‘Black Mona Lisa’ tour to Bay Area

Datebook: Porter, best known for his acclaimed turn as ballroom emcee Pray Tell on the FX series “Pose,” plans to take his tour to 25 cities in the U.S., with a stop at the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts on May 4, before heading to San Francisco’s Golden Gate Theatre on May 5.

3 comments:

Hailey Garza said...

Even though Billy Porter is a CMU alumnus, an active person in the Pittsburgh community, and altogether a fashion and theatre icon, I don’t really know much about him or have seen his works up close. A day ago, my mom had sent me a link to get tickets to his Black Mona Lisa tour that’s coming through Arizona in May. She thought I would want to go because he went to CMU. So, I’m really interested to see how it is in person, and I’m sure it will be great. I mean after all, Billy Porter has won a Tony Award, has hit top 100 on the Billboard hit, and has starred on Broadway. And since I don’t really know much about Billy Porter other than some of the basics, this show covers parts of his career so I will be able to learn about him, from Billy Porter himself! And maybe I’ll rep some CMU gear and see if he notices.

Rayya Gracy said...

I admire Billy Porter so much for his ability to constantly bring something new to the stage and the film industry. He has had such a large impact on those within the black community as well as those within the LGBTQ+ community and continues to revolutionize the art of performance and who it can be portrayed by. I was unaware that Billy Porter was also in the pop music scene as well, and now I’m even more interested in hearing His stunning voice and beyond that of the theater and film realm. Additionally, porters fashion sense is truly one of a kind and I admire how authentic he is as an individual and how he expresses that through clothing. I feel as if he has demonstrated that clothing is also an art form and aids in shaping who you are. Though I do wish this article touched more on his Black Mona Lisa tour. I am sure it is going to be a success.

John Alexander Farrell said...

While progress has been made in recent years, there is still a long way to go in terms of creating a truly inclusive and diverse entertainment industry. We must continue to uplift and amplify the voices of marginalized communities and challenge the systemic barriers that prevent them from achieving success.

Billy Porter, the Tony-award winning actor, singer and LGBTQ+ activist, has been a trailblazer in the entertainment industry, breaking barriers and pushing boundaries through his work. In a recent interview, he reflected on his journey and the challenges he has faced as a Black, gay man in Hollywood.

Porter's impact on the entertainment industry cannot be overstated. He has used his platform to advocate for greater representation and visibility for LGBTQ+ people and people of color, both on and off screen. His bold fashion choices and fearless attitude have also challenged traditional gender norms and inspired others to express themselves freely.