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From the New York production of From the Horse's MouthWhitney Brown

From the Horse's Mouth began as a unique theatre piece for dancers 16 years ago at New York's Joyce SoHo Theatre. Since then, it has been performed countless times across the United States.

The show first came to Toronto in 2008, and now co-creators Jamie Cunningham and Tina Croll are bringing it back to the city to honour World Pride. But for the first time, the volunteer performers represent all walks of life: Their commonality is that they are all members of the LGBT community.

Cunningham and Croll's concept is stunningly simple and can be put together in only three rehearsals. It is a homecoming for Cunningham, 77, who was born and raised in Toronto before joining New York's avant-garde dance scene in the 1960s.

"The 20 volunteers for World Pride are speaking up and out," he says. "They are telling stories that could change lives. For the audience, it is watching living history. For the performers, it is memory. It is always a poignant experience for everyone."

From the Horse's Mouth is at Toronto's Buddies in Bad Times Theatre through June 20.

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