Collin wrote this piece as a deeply personal confrontation with his family history. He sought to explore the intersections of his queerness with his family’s acceptance—or lack thereof. The work is an intimate journey into his family’s past and ancestry, piecing together the puzzle of who Collin is, queerness and all.

Raised in the small town of Blackshear, GA, Collin grew up in a household that included his parents, grandparents, and “Aunt Sis,” his grandmother’s best friend. Collin often reflects on the profound influence of the women in his life, particularly his grandmother, whom he describes as “somewhat ethereal.” The play delves into her vibrant world—her love of music, her relationships, her flair for extravagance, and her infectious joy for life. Collin reveals that his grandmother, Bobbie, taught him to embrace art, revel in life’s grandeur, and live boldly. She gave him the freedom to imagine a life without boundaries.

This foundation of self-expression ultimately led Collin to embrace his identity as a gay man. Yet, the play wrestles with a complex question: Would Bobbie, despite instilling in him a love for authenticity and individuality, have fully accepted him for who he is today? Could her teachings about self-love and living unapologetically extend to his queerness, or would her Southern conservative roots cloud her love and understanding?

Through this poignant exploration, Collin examines the nuances of his coming-out journey. His grandmother’s ability to live vibrantly and authentically inspired his own self-acceptance, but the musical probes deeper, imagining a conversation between them. Would she be proud of the man he has become? Or would their shared bond fracture under the weight of unspoken expectations?

Ultimately, this heartfelt story captures the intersection of love, heritage, and the complexity of family bonds, imagining a moment of connection where they could bridge the divide between their worlds and celebrate the truths that make us whole.