Arts & Entertainment
Imagine Dragons singer stars in documentary about LGBT mormons
the documentary premieres on HBO this summer

(Dan Reynolds. Photo via Instagram.)
Dan Reynolds, frontman of the rock band Imagine Dragons, will star in the documentary “Believer,” which follows his journey as an advocate for LGBT Mormons.
“Believer” chronicles Reynolds, who is Mormon, and out Neon Trees lead singer Tyler Glenn, a former Mormon, as they plan the LoveLoud Festival, a charity concert last summer in Utah that raised money for at-risk LGBT youth.
The film debuted at the Sundance Film Festival and received a standing ovation.
Reynolds told the Washington Post he hopes the film can change the way the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints views the LGBT community.
“These kids are being told their most innate sense of being is sinful,” Reynolds says. “Shaming is so destructive.”
Reynolds recently apologized for preaching anti-gay Mormon teachings when he accepted the Hero award for the Trevor Project in June.
“I hold regret about that until this day. I wish I could re-knock on those doors and tell them I was wrong. I can’t do that. All I can do is come forward to you today and say I’m sincerely sorry,” Reynolds said at the time.
“Believer” airs on HBO this summer.
The DC Black Pride Opening Reception was held at the Westin DC Downtown on Friday, May 22. Grammy Award-winning artist Durand Bernarr was the headline performer. Comedian Anthony Oakes was the host. Speakers included Human Rights Campaign President Kelley Robinson and Center For Black Equity President Kenya Hutton, as well as speakers from health organizations and sponsors. The event featured performances from Billy the Goat, Jay Columbus, Akeem Woods, Rue Pratt, Be Steadwell and Bennu Byrd.
(Washington Blade photos by Michael Key)
















Photos
PHOTOS: Black Pride Pageant and Unity Ball
Back-to-back events held on first night of D.C. Black Pride
The Mr. and Miss DC Black Pride Pageant was held at the Westin DC Downtown on Thursday, May 21. Following the pageant, Black Pride events continued with the 10th annual DC Black Pride Unity Ball.
(Washington Blade photos by Landon Shackelford)
























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PHOTOS: Helen Hayes Awards
D.C.-area productions honored at Theatre Washington’s annual ceremony
Theatre Washington’s 42nd Helen Hayes Awards were held at The Anthem on Monday, May 18.
(Washington Blade photos by Michael Key)


































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