The Friday 5: Pride: 5 Favorite LGBTQ Broadway Songs

As we head into the final weekend of Pride 2019, I thought it appropriate to take a brief look at some Broadway songs that I turn to when I'm feeling alone or any emotional time in my life. I feel so fortunate to be out of the closet and living my true life. But it isn't perfect, even after all these years. It continues to be a struggle some days. The Broadway musical has long been a refuge for me, as I am sure it is for many of you. Thankfully, there is a huge Broadway family ready to embrace all of us. As Sondheim says, "No one is alone."

Friday Five: Five Six LGBTQ Broadway Songs

1. Sexual Awakening: "Ring of Keys" from Fun Home
Everyone has the one moment when you realize who you are. For me, it was when I was nine or ten, and when I saw the life guard at our community pool and felt butterflies in my stomach. My ring of keys was his whistle dangling down his chest on a red cord.

"Can you feel my heart saying 'hi'?" - Sydney Lucas and Michael Cerveris - Fun Home

2. Just Out of The Closet: "You Walk with Me" from The Full Monty
I know this song has a little bit of a different context in the show, but it is all about making sure that someone knows they have your complete support and love. No one needs to know that more than when they are first out.

Jason Danieley and Romain Frugé - The Full Monty

3. Parental Acceptance: "You Could Never Shame Me" from Kiss of the Spider Woman 
This song always gets me. I feel so envious of Molina. My parents are not supportive at all.

Merle Louise - Kiss of the Spider Woman

4. An Ally: "If You Were Gay" from Avenue Q 
It is so simple, really. To love and care for someone for who they are. How fortunate I am to have straight allies who believe in that unconditionally.

Nicky, Rick Lyon, Rod and John Tartaglia - Avenue Q

5. LTR: "Song on the Sand" from La Cage aux Folles
It is wonderful to see and feel the joy of having found a life partner. And to hear it sung between two men gives me so much hope for the future.

Kelsey Grammer and Douglas Hodge - 2010 Broadway Revival of La Cage aux Folles

6. Community: "Unruly Heart" from The Prom
No matter if it is a group of friends, the LGBTQ community in your hometown, or, these days, an online community, there is a a ton of love and support out there.

"Unruly Heart" - The Prom Company

Bonus : Paul's monologue from A Chorus Line
Not a note is sung, but this groundbreaking speech from this classic show always brings the audience to tears and a huge hand at its conclusion. It had a profound effect on me then, and it still does today.

Robert LuPone and Sammy Williams - A Chorus Line

We hope all of you had a happy Pride. No matter where you are in your life, may you know and feel the support of our community. Pride is all year long.

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