Playwright Donald Rupe unexpectedly found himself delving into the aftermath of the Pulse nightclub massacre in Orlando, Florida, while intending to write about his personal experiences and friends. The result is the poignant musical 'From Here,' which explores the emotional complexities and community responses following the tragic event.
The narrative revolves around Daniel, a character navigating life, relationships, and insecurities with his close-knit group of queer friends. While the musical does not explicitly mention Pulse initially, the impact of the tragedy eventually reshapes the storyline, mirroring the real-life experience in Orlando.
The Pulse nightclub shooting, which occurred during a 'Latin Night' celebration, claimed the lives of 49 individuals and left 53 wounded. The incident, perpetrated by gunman Omar Mateen, marked the deadliest attack on the LGBTQ community in U.S. history at that time.
'From Here' premiered at the 2019 Orlando Fringe Festival and has since had limited runs in central Florida and a concert version in New York. The production is set to debut off-Broadway at The Pershing Square Signature Center in Manhattan this summer.
The musical aims to offer a narrative of hope and resilience amidst tragedy, emphasizing themes of love and acceptance. While the story is deeply rooted in the Orlando experience, its universal message of coping with shared trauma resonates with communities affected by mass violence across the country.
The cast members, some of whom have personal connections to the Pulse tragedy, view their roles as a significant responsibility in portraying the events authentically. Through powerful songs and emotional performances, the production seeks to foster healing and understanding in the face of senseless violence.
'From Here' serves as a tribute to the lives lost at Pulse nightclub while also offering a narrative of strength and unity in the aftermath of tragedy. By sharing this story, the creators hope to honor the memories of the victims and provide a sense of closure for the community.
