Broadway stars rally against anti-gay bullying

[October 21, 2010]  NEW YORK (AP) -- The theatrical community is lending its support to teens who face anti-gay bullying by doing what it does best: delivering messages from the heart and an uplifting song.

Some 40 heartfelt video testimonials from Broadway actors who recall being bullied or called names -- as well as the touring casts of "Bill Elliot," "Wicked" and "Jersey Boys -- have been collected.

The theatrical community also has produced an original "We Are the World"-type anthem with singers who have appeared in "American Idiot," "Avenue Q," "Legally Blonde" and "Hairspray."

The push is part of a nationwide effort by various organizations to put a spotlight on the problem after a spate of suicides by teens believed to be victims of anti-gay bullying.

A viral Facebook campaign has asked Americans to wear purple Wednesday in solidarity.

[Associated Press]

Copyright 2010 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.