The American LGBTQ+ Museum

EVENT DETAILS

Narrated by Lily Tomlin and based on Vito Russo’s landmark book, this classic 1995 documentary traces a century of LGBTQ+ representation on screen. Presented in partnership with the American LGBTQ+ Museum.

Based on the landmark book from pioneer Vito Russo, THE CELLULOID CLOSET is an exuberant, eye-opening documentary from 1995 that serves up a dazzling hundred-year history of LGBTQ+ representation on the silver screen. Lily Tomlin narrates as Oscar-winning filmmaker Rob Epstein (THE TIMES OF HARVEY MILK) and Jeffrey Friedman assemble illuminating clips and footage from 120 films. This archival collection shows the changing face of cinema sexuality from cruel stereotypes to covert love to the activist correctives of the early 1990s. Harvey Fierstein, Whoopi Goldberg, Tom Hanks, Susan Sarandon, Quentin Crisp, and Gore Vidal are just a few of the many actors, writers, and commentators who provide funny and insightful anecdotes. Join us as we reflect on the past, present, and future of LGBTQ+ visibility on screen.

This screening will be followed by a Q&A

SPONSORED TICKETS AVAILABLE

A limited number of free tickets are available for this program, courtesy of the American LGBTQ+ Museum. To redeem a free ticket, add a ticket to your card and use PROMO CODE: NF37ALGBTQMUSTIX at checkout. Free tickets are limited to two tickets per transaction and per account.

ACCESSBILITY

We strive to host inclusive, accessible events that enable all individuals, including individuals with disabilities, to engage fully. Please reach out with any questions, requests or needs to info@americanlgbtqmuseum.org.

Wheelchair Accessible: SVA Theater is wheelchair accessible. Should you be using a wheelchair, we recommend arriving at least 30 minutes in advance of the event’s start time in case the use of a wheelchair lift is required. If you need to use one of our wheelchair lifts, please locate the house manager on duty or visit our office, which is found immediately to the left upon entering the building.

Assistive Listening Devices: If you are in need of one of these devices, please locate the SVA Theater house manager on duty or visit our office, which is found immediately to the left upon entering the building. We require a piece of identification (preferably a driver’s license) in exchange for the device, which will be returned after the event.

Service Animals: Service animals are always permitted into SVA Theatre.  We do not permit emotional support animals, even with documentation.