Fresh Meat Fest serves queer Chinese dance, Puerto Rican disability drag flair — 2026-06-15

## Short Segments ## Feature Story Get ready to immerse yourself in a vibrant celebration of diversity and artistry at the 25th Fresh Meat Festival, taking place from June 19th to 21st at San Francisco's Z Space. This iconic festival, a cornerstone of Pride Season, is renowned for its bold and boundary-pushing performances that spotlight transgender and queer artists from across the nation. This year, the festival promises an extraordinary lineup, featuring world premieres and breathtaking performances that defy traditional categories. Among the highlights is the premiere by Shawn Lee, a Bay Area choreographer whose work with the Bay Area Independent Chinese Dancers draws on Buddhist teachings and Chinese dance traditions. Lee's piece explores profound themes of gender, identity, and forgiveness, offering a unique blend of compassion and composition. Joining Lee are other remarkable artists such as JanpiStar, B. DeVeaux, and Pangaea, each bringing their own innovative flair to the stage. The festival will also feature performances from Sean Dorsey Dance and Shawna Virago, adding to the rich tapestry of dance, music, theater, and drag that defines Fresh Meat Productions. For a quarter of a century, Fresh Meat Productions has been a beacon for artists whose work often falls outside traditional categories, providing a platform for voices that challenge and inspire. This year's silver anniversary edition is no exception, with a lineup that includes world-class vogue artists, a 40-member trans choir, and a drag supergroup, all set to captivate audiences with their artistry. The festival's schedule is packed with performances that promise to be both exhilarating and thought-provoking. On June 19th and 20th, the shows will begin at 8 PM, while the final performance on June 21st will start at 3 PM. Tickets are available on a sliding scale, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to experience this celebration of trans and queer artistry. Located at 450 Florida Street, Z Space provides the perfect backdrop for this festival of innovation, resilience, and joy. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor to the Bay Area, the Fresh Meat Festival offers a unique opportunity to witness the power of performance art to transcend boundaries and bring communities together. As the festival celebrates its 25th anniversary, it continues to be a testament to the creativity and courage of the artists it showcases. So mark your calendars and prepare to be inspired by the extraordinary talent and passion on display at the Fresh Meat Festival. It's an event not to be missed, offering a glimpse into the future of performance art and the enduring spirit of the LGBTQ+ community.