EMPIRE STAGE &
ARTBUZZ THEATRICS Present
SOUTHERN BAPTIST SISSIES by Del Shores
Directed by Larry Buzzeo

FROM THE CREATOR OF “SORDID LIVES”

Based in a small town in Texas, four boys named Mark, Benny, TJ, and Andrew retell their experiences of discovering their homosexuality while being raised in a conservative Baptist church. The play is a satirical comedy and a serious exploration of what it means to be gay.

The play opened to rave reviews in Los Angeles during its original run in 2000 and became the most awarded play of the year, winning the GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding LA Theater Production, as well as multiple LA Weekly Theater Awards, Los Angeles Critics Awards, Ovation Awards, Backstage West Garland Awards and Robby Awards.

2.5 HOURS, 1 INTERMISSION

Sept 11 – Oct 4, 2026
Tix: $40

($30 for Sept 11 preview)

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DETAILS

Starts:
September 11, 2026

End:
October 4, 2026

Venue:
Empire Stage

PURCHASE TICKETS

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What Our Audience Has To Say About Us!

Went to see THANK YOU FOR BEING A FRIEND with my husband and two friends and we all had a great time! Show was smart, funny, and very entertaining! A big THANK YOU to David at Empire Stage for being so accommodating with our last-minute tickets and for putting together shows we all want to see. Can’t wait for the next one!

Ted S.

This hidden gem is just the cutest little theater with some really great acting and fabulous performances.

Paul L.

Satisfied every time!! Always enjoy the intimate space & relaxed atmosphere. Employs & hosts always friendly.

Gary D.

Absolutely delightful and intimate Blackbox theatre where you see and hear everything. Plenty of parking everywhere. The lobby boasts couches to sit on and wait, snacks to buy, and a certain feeling of being in a real hip theater.

Ginger R.

Cool place. I saw the absolutely hilarious “Thank You For Being a Friend”, the Golden Girls parody. Enjoyed every moment of it, and I’m so glad I made it a part of my vacation.

Linda F.

This place was FABULOUS! We saw “The Golden Girls, thank u for being a friend” best and funniest show we ever saw. Owner could not have been nicer. We will definitely be back! Also location is terrific, so close to great restaurants, etc

Julie D.

Intimate space. Great sound…Staff pleasent. Great venue.

Mark L.

Great time at the naked comedy show! Handsome, funny and talented young men!! Not bad on the eyes!! Too bbad my 83 year old Mother was laid up in the hospital! It was her idea to see the show!!!! Greeted warmly by the host with free wine and many laughs as he warmed up the audience dressed in drag and full of wise cracks! Check it out if you get the chance!!!

Dolores S.