Eight disabled artists with the Sins Invalid theater troupe come together to create a stunning display of experimental artistry during the first year of the pandemic. The film itself is a documentary following the creation of the stage performance We Love Like Barnacles, starring queer and disabled performers of many different backgrounds and races. We hear the struggles and triumphs the troupe experienced while filming in multiple locations and broadcasting online live.
Performers, theater workers, and film crew all share their experiences in creating this unique piece of collaborative theater over a great distance. The viewer is also treated to glimpses of the performances in We Love Like Barnacles between these interviews about disability, race, performance, and COVID-19.
There are some small issues with this film that many viewers will forgive: It’s a little unorganized at times, making some segments seem tacked on. However, Loving With Three Hearts is incredibly informative in several ways including personal expressions about race and ability, discussions about climate change and its varied effects, and discussions about the future of theater. Watching both performers and crew work on creating a simulcast online performance from multiple locations will be interesting to anyone interested in stagecraft, and the discussion about race and ability will be valuable to many college-level classrooms.
Some of the performances are quite raw, connecting the additional risks the climate crisis poses to those with disabilities and people from the Global South. Lateef McLeod’s act, Running from the Ecological Wave, is shown in near-entirety and is especially poignant and touching. This segment in particular would be extremely useful for those seeking video content for acting and theater classes. Consider Loving With Three Hearts especially if your patrons enjoy behind-the-scenes type documentaries or have an interest in stagecraft. Highly Recommended.
Where does this title belong on public library shelves?
Loving With Three Hearts belongs in library collections alongside disability advocacy and theater documentaries.
What kind of college classes could use this title?
This short form educational video resource is perfect for any courses studying climate change, disability, theater, or public health will benefit from viewing this title in the classroom.
What is the retail price and/or Public Performance License fee?
$75 for 14 day streaming, $150/1yr, $350/3yr, $550 life of file