A fundraiser for Armed Queers SLC hosted a Utah premiere of filmmaker Biff Hartwell's rock opera "Beacon of Flesh" on July 27, featuring a musical performance by local band Feral!Cat?Red! at Brewvies Cinema Pub.
Fundraiser for Armed Queers SLC
The event, held on July 27, brought together local activists and artists for a screening of the feature-length rock opera shot on Super 8 in Baltimore, Maryland. Hosted by Biff Hartwell, the screening served as a fundraiser for Armed Queers SLC, an organization dedicated to protecting oppressed people and movements through self-defense education.
Artistic and Community Engagement
According to event details from Hartwell, the screening featured the filmmaker and star Robin Pleasure, both of whom were available for an audience Q&A session following the film. The program was designed to combine cinema with community engagement, offering attendees the opportunity to meet queer activists and explore bizarre art.
Musical Performance by Feral!Cat?Red!
The evening's musical programming included a live performance by Feral!Cat?Red!, a local band described as an erratic and cathartic doomsludgemath metal group. The performance preceded the film screening, which opened with doors at 6:15 p.m.
Venue and Local Context
The venue for the event was Brewvies Cinema Pub, located in the Granary/Ballpark area of Salt Lake City. The establishment, which offers dining and entertainment, served as the hub for the evening's activities, which included tabling from Armed Queers SLC to raise awareness for their mission.
Donations and Proceeds
Admission for the 21+ event was set at a suggested donation of $12 to $15, with cash accepted at the door. Proceeds from the event were designated to be split between the featured artists and Armed Queers SLC, with additional opportunities for attendees to donate directly to the organization to support their self-defense training and advocacy work.
Production Details
The screening of "Beacon of Flesh" is part of a larger national tour by Hartwell. The film's unique production style, utilizing Super 8 film, was a central component of the Utah premiere, providing a distinct visual experience for the Salt Lake City audience.
Event Impact
The event highlighted the intersection of queer activism and local underground music in Salt Lake City, providing a platform for both independent film and community-focused fundraising.
