Elliot Page to executive produce virtual reality adaptation of 'When Brooklyn Was Queer'

In an exciting development, actor Elliot Page is set to take on the role of executive producer for a virtual reality adaptation of the renowned book, 'When Brooklyn Was Queer', originally penned by historian Hugh Ryan. The project, which aims to bring to life the rich history of queer Brooklyn, aligns with Page's advocacy for LGBTQ+ representation in media, as reported by Yahoo! News.

Image Credit: Canva

Variety was the first to break the news about the upcoming series, revealing that Emmy-award-winning director Yasmin Elayat will lead the project, with the screenplay crafted by playwright Agnes Borinsky. The virtual reality experience promises to immerse viewers into the historic landscape of Brooklyn, offering a glimpse into the challenges, victories, and distinctive narratives of the LGBTQ+ community during a crucial juncture in time.

Crafted by the production company New Canvas, known for its expertise in delivering immersive narrative VR content accessible through platforms like Oculus and Meta Quest, the adaptation of 'When Brooklyn Was Queer' is expected to follow suit. New Canvas has a track record of transforming storytelling with projects such as the adaptation of the comic book 'Lustration' and the creation of the suspenseful VR thriller 'Awake'.

'When Brooklyn Was Queer', as described on Ryan's website, delves into the LGBTQ+ legacy of Brooklyn from the era of Walt Whitman in the 1850s to the pioneering women employed at the Brooklyn Navy Yard during World War II and beyond. Despite Manhattan's well-documented queer history, Brooklyn's significant contributions have often been overlooked, highlighting a pervasive erasure of Brooklyn's queer narrative within New York City history.

While the precise release date for the virtual reality adaptation remains undisclosed, 'Variety' disclosed that production is slated to commence later this year. With Elliot Page's involvement and a talented creative team at the helm, the adaptation promises to be a compelling exploration of Brooklyn's vibrant queer heritage.