This fall, the Mercyhurst Institute for Arts & Culture (MIAC) is home to a series of engaging performances by queer-authored and queer-celebrated artists, ushering in an exciting cultural season with heart, humor, and resonance for LGBTQ+ audiences.
Beloved by Glee fans and Broadway enthusiasts alike, Darren Criss brings his magnetic stage presence to Erie on November 13, 2025. From his breakout viral fame in A Very Potter Musical to Emmy-winning turns in The Assassination of Gianni Versace, Criss embodies queer visibility across mediums. Expect a dynamic evening that celebrates a queer artist's journey through music, performance, and storytelling that sparkles with wit and authenticity.
Hip gay rocker and Broadway star Cheyenne Jackson headlines on March 18, 2026 with Signs of Life. This is a one-man show brimming with sharp humor, eclectic tunes (from Sam Cooke to Lady Gaga), and deeply moving moments. Notably, he performs his original song "Ok," a tender tribute to his father's unwavering love for his gay son. It's an intimate, joyful exploration of identity and family, and provides an evening bound to resonate profoundly with queer hearts.
The incomparable Betty Buckley returns on April 17, 2026 with her signature artistry in recital form. A Tony Award-winning force ("Cats," 1776, Pippin) and Mercyhurst's artist-in-residence, Buckley brings a lifetime of queer allyship and nuanced storytelling to the Walker Recital Hall. Though not centered on LGBTQ+ themes, her presence as a steadfast queer icon and educator makes this performance a vital inclusion in the season's queer-relevant lineup.
Rounding out the season, Seth Rudetsky takes the stage on May 8, 2026 with Divas by the Decade, a witty, multimedia tour of Broadway's legendary leading ladies. As an openly gay theater insider, Rudetsky's blend of humor, nostalgia, and unabashed Broadway devotion creates an exuberant nod to queer fandom and the diva worship culture within our community.
TICKETS & INFO: Check MIAC's website (https://miac.mercyhurst.edu/events/miac-live) or box office for seating and ticket pricing. Performances span November 2025 through May 2026.