MASK4MASK Development Fund

We are raising money for the further development of MASK4MASK. Ideally, these funds will be used for a workshop production of the play -- which will be staged, but have minimal design elements. The purpose of the workshop will be threefold: to see the show on its feet, to solicit additional feedback, and to generate additional interest in and support for a full production. The funds will be used to rent rehearsal and performance space, to compensate all artists involved (actors, director, choreographer, designers, and technicians), and to promote the workshop.

Our goal is $13k, but we can use any funds raised. If we do not hit that goal, we can scale back the workshop, or use the funds for another reading, to continue generating support for the play. No contribution is too big or too small. If we receive support from private investors/producers, the money raised here will be added to their investment. If we have enough to progress straight to a full production, the funds will be used for that purpose. All donors will be thanked in the program (unless they choose to donate anonymously).

If we receive institutional support (i.e., grants, fellowships, the support of a theater company), and we determine that we will not need the donations to develop MASK4MASK, they will be refunded.

As we use the funds raised, we will use GoFundMe's messaging feature to update our donors on our expenses. Transparency is important to us, and we want to be sure that you know exactly how your donations are used. If you would prefer to receive these updates via email, please email John Patterson via the contact information on his LinkTree.

MASK4MASK is about a country singer who is outed and decides to reinvent himself as a gay pop star. In an attempt to make himself more legible to the public, he tries on different versions of what it means to be queer. But as a result, he feels increasingly alienated from his audience, his lovers, and himself.

MASK4MASK explores the process of identity formation that happens after coming out. How do we create (and re-create) ourselves given the limited scripts provided for us? How do these narratives limit growth and inhibit connection? And what is the psychological toll of being in a constant state of reinvention?

Our hope is that young queer people will see this, and feel that their search for community and self-understanding are reflected in the work. We hope that they will know they are not alone in the questions they're asking.