DALLAS — Grammy, Emmy and Tony Award-winning actor and singer Billy Porter will be the first-ever honorary grand marshal of the Dallas Pride Parade.
Throughout his decades-long career, Porter has earned critical acclaim and been awarded for his roles on stage and screen including an Emmy, Grammy, and two Tony Awards. Porter his first Tony for Best Actor in a Musical for his performance as Lola in "Kinky Boots.”
In addition to his contributions to the arts, Porter has used his platform to advocate for marginalized communities, championing LGBTQ+ rights, racial justice and gender equality. Porter will receive the Isabelle Stevenson Tony Award this year, his third, for his work as an activist and spokesperson for the LGBTQ+ communities including his work for the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation and the Entertainment Community Fund, among others.
“We are thrilled to welcome Billy Porter to Dallas Pride,” said Sherrell Cross, executive director of Dallas Pride. “He symbolized the spirit of unity, pride and resilience within the LGBTQ+ community, and will undoubtedly electrify audiences with his spirit and sparkle.”
Dallas Pride festivities start with the Dallas Pride Music Festival from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. June 1. The Dallas Pride Festival and Parade begins at 10 a.m. Sunday June 2 with a pre-parade festival and activities before the parade starts at 2 p.m. in Fair Park.
The parade, one of the largest Pride events in Texas, is expected to have more than 150 entries and draw thousands of attendees. Admission to the parade is free.
Tickets are on sale now for the Dallas Pride Music Festival on Saturday, June 1, which will feature musical headliners CeCe Peniston and Ha Sizzle. A variety of musical and dance performances on multiple indoor and outdoor stages will include singer Lardi B, DJ Sedric and other entertainers. Morphine Love Dion, a contestant on RuPaul’s Drag Race, and Aquaria, season 10 winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race, will be among the performers at the Dallas Pride Music Festival. Tickets for the festival are $10.
For more information visit the Dallas Pride website.
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