Amish Country Queer
Lancaster, Pennsylvania | Film Feature
Documentary, LGBTQ
Queer photographer Brady Pappas is transforming onstage and off. Coming out is never easy, but the stakes are higher with religious family and a conservative hometown. As they step into drag and begin their transition, Brady must decide: will they come out fully — and to everyone?
Amish Country Queer
Lancaster, Pennsylvania | Film Feature
Documentary, LGBTQ
1 Campaigns | Pennsylvania, United States
35 supporters | followers
Enter the amount you would like to pledge
$3,490
Goal: $13,000 for production phase 2
Queer photographer Brady Pappas is transforming onstage and off. Coming out is never easy, but the stakes are higher with religious family and a conservative hometown. As they step into drag and begin their transition, Brady must decide: will they come out fully — and to everyone?
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
Resilience & Queer Joy
When you conjure images of Amish country, what do you see? Horse-drawn buggies? Golden cornfields? How about drag queens spinning under neon lights? A dazzling queer community thriving in the heart of Lancaster, Pennsylvania? It’s an image that upends expectations, and it’s the story we want to tell. It’s about those who stay in small towns and create community in a world that doesn’t always know what to do with them.
Lancaster, Pennsylvania: known for its rolling hills, fluffy clouds, and deeply conservative values. But there's more than what's on the tourist guides—if you know where to look. Meet Brady Pappas, a celebrated artist documenting the local drag and queer scenes, while navigating their own transformation—embracing their trans identity and stepping into the world of drag. Amish Country Queer follows Brady’s journey as they come out to their family in a politically charged environment, offering a raw, powerful look at the resilience of a community that refuses to be erased, and a celebration of queer joy where you’d least expect it.
IG: @AmishCountryQueer
Why This Story? Why Now?
Because visibility matters, and too often, rural queer communities are left out of the narrative. Because queer and trans people are being pushed further into the margins, especially in rural America. Because stories like Amish Country Queer can be lifelines. Because the kids growing up in Lancaster, and small towns everywhere, need to know they’re not alone.
Amish Country Queer is about what happens when LGBTQ+ folks choose to stay, not leave. It’s about building community when there isn’t a blueprint and finding family where there once was fear.
At a time when drag bans and anti-trans legislation are sweeping through statehouses, this story isn’t just relevant—it’s urgent. We’re fighting erasure with joy, resistance with beauty, and silence with celebration.
We’ve already captured so many beautiful, powerful moments. But now we need your help to finish the film and bring it to communities that need it most. This isn’t just a documentary. It’s a declaration: We are here. We are thriving. And we’re not going anywhere.
About Brady Pappas:
At the cross-section of fashion and fantasy, you’ll find Brady Pappas (they/them), a non-binary
artist and digital creative based in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Pappas uses the camera as a tool to illuminate queer culture in south-central Pennsylvania. With a goal of immortalizing the under-
ground queer life in the region known as the 717, Pappas has made a staple of themselves as the it-photographer documenting the joys and celebrations that take place in the nightlife scene at drag shows, dance parties, and gay bars, capturing the essence of community with unparalleled intimacy.
IG: @BradyPappas
About Tulle Queer:
Beyond the dance floor, Pappas’ artistic vision establishes a sacred realm within small-town life through their yearly exhibition Tulle Queer. Launched in June of 2022, this collection of colorful portraits, adorned with tulle fabric, pays homage to the array of LGBTQ+ icons shaping small-town life in Pennsylvania. Initially sparked by Pappas’ love for tulle and photography, Tulle Queer has evolved into a platform for individuals to express themselves confidently and authentically. Through the project, Pappas aims to empower participants and create a sacred space where they can feel seen and celebrated.
IG: @TulleQueer
About Production:
We’ve already poured our hearts into this project, in fact, we've already created a proof of concept, which most recently, won Best Documentary at Jim Thorpe Independent Film Festival 2025.
& now we need your help to keep the momentum going. Our goal is to raise $13,000 to fund the ongoing filming and production costs. Your support will make sure we capture the powerful stories, intimate moments, and dazzling performances that will give voice to our queer icons.
Where We Are & Where We're Headed
We’re in the thick of production for Amish Country Queer, and the footage we’ve captured so far is nothing short of magic. Lancaster’s drag and queer scenes are bursting with color, resilience, and joy—now we just need your help to finish the story. This campaign will fund the final phase of production, and help us do justice to the powerful lives and voices we’re documenting.
Where the Money Is Going?
Here’s exactly how your contributions will be used:
Food & Lodging – $3,000
- Keeps our crew fed, housed, and human—because queer stories deserve more than granola bars and couch surfing.
Equipment Rentals – $3,500
- Lights, cameras, actual action—this covers the gear we need to make Lancaster’s queer magic look as cinematic as it feels.
Permits, Location Rentals & Insurance – $1,500
- Not sexy, but necessary. These keep us legal, safe, and not getting kicked out mid-drag number.
Additional Crew – $5,000
- We’ve been a skeleton crew pulling off full glam. This helps us bring on extra hands to carry gear, run sound, and maybe even eat lunch.
Stretch Goals: Beyond 100% Funded
If we surpass our goal, every additional dollar will help fund post-production—including editing, sound mixing, color correction, and music licensing. More funding means a more polished, powerful final film, and a greater reach for these underrepresented voices.
When You'll See the Film
We aim to complete the film by Summer of 2026. Once finished, we’ll submit to festivals and organize grassroots screenings, starting right here in Lancaster.
With your contribution, Amish Country Queer will challenge perceptions, celebrate queer joy, and bring a much-needed narrative of resilience to the screen. Back us now, share the campaign, and help us prove that queer stories everywhere deserve to shine.
Key Crew:
Colleen C Brady (Director) is recognized for their award-winning documentary filmmaking and evocative photography, delving into themes of transformation and community identity. Their first feature documentary, Firebird: Built to Burn (2023), has been awarded Best Director from Poppy Jasper International Film Festival, Atlanta Docufest and Northeast Pennsylvania Film Festival, and is now on Prime Video and AppleTV. Outside of documentaries, Brady is a commercial editor and adjunct professor at Fairleigh Dickinson University.
Mariam Bakashvili (Producer) is a producer and filmmaker known for her award-winning short film Woman With Violin, which explores immigrant and women’s issues. She moved to the U.S. in 2010 and studied filmmaking at Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mariam is passionate about storytelling that highlights LGBTQ+ and immigrant experiences. Outside of filmmaking, she enjoys tennis and spending time with her cat, Honey.
Nicholas Richter (Director of Photography) is an award-winning filmmaker and cinematographer whose work has been featured in festivals like TriBeCa and HBO’s Catalyst. His projects have streamed on Netflix, ESPN, and PBS. With a background in documentary filmmaking and a cinematic style, Nicholas is dedicated to telling meaningful stories and capturing stunning imagery.
Featured Drag Artists & Organizations Include:
Nevaeha Le'Vixenn- IG: @Nevaehalvxn
Charlize Angelz - IG: @Candidlyaustin
Nes - IG: @Nes.phl
Sible Stackhouse - IG: @Definitely_Sible
Tragedy Ann Stackhouse - IG: @Tragedystackhouse
High Fever - IG: @hi_ghfever
DreamWrights Center - IG: @dreamwrightstheatre
York County History Center - IG: @YorkHistory
West Art - IG: @WestArtLanc
Here’s how you can help bring Amish Country Queer to life (Besides Pledging):
- Hit “Follow” on this campaign (& IG) - it’s free, fast, and helps us rise in the Seed&Spark rankings!
- Snag a perk and make a contribution - whether it’s $10 or $1000, it all goes toward queer joy on screen.
- Post about us! Share the campaign link on your socials and tag @AmishCountryQueer - we’ll probably cry (in a good way).
- Slide into inboxes & send a quick note to friends, fam, or that one coworker who’s weirdly into documentaries.
Your support = more drag, more storytelling, and more queer beauty in unexpected places.
Don't know what to say? Here are some templates you can copy & paste below:
Sample Caption #1:
Queer stories matter, especially in places you’d least expect them. Help support @AmishCountryQueer - a powerful new documentary.
Sample Caption #2:
Just backed Amish Country Queer, a beautiful doc about drag & queer joy in Lancaster, PA. Help bring it to life: @AmishCountryQueer
Sample Caption #3:
You’ve seen buggies and barns—now get ready for wigs and waist-snatches. Amish Country Queer is a documentary about drag & queer joy in Amish country (yes, really). Help fund this magic: @AmishCountryQueer
Close Friend/Family Circle:
Hey! I’m supporting this incredible doc called Amish Country Queer; it follows a queer community thriving in Lancaster, PA. It’s beautiful, bold, and deserves to be seen. Would love if you could chip in or help spread the word! https://seedandspark.com/fund/amish-country-queer#story
Email Template #1:
Subject: Let's Make Amish Country Queer Happen
Hi [Name],
I’m supporting a documentary called Amish Country Queer, about a photographer navigating their identity and drag journey in Lancaster, PA. It’s a powerful story of resilience and joy in a conservative community.
We need your help to make it happen! You can donate or share the campaign—every bit helps.
Check it out here: https://seedandspark.com/fund/amish-country-queer#story
You can also check out their page on IG: @AmishCountryQueer
Thanks so much,
[Your Name]
Email Template #2:
Subject: Help Us Fund Amish Country Queer
Hi [Name],
I’m helping fund a documentary that’s all about drag and queer joy in Lancaster, PA. It’s a story you don’t want to miss!
Please check out the campaign and consider donating or sharing.
Here’s the link: https://seedandspark.com/fund/amish-country-queer#story
You can also check out their page on IG: @AmishCountryQueer
Thank you!
[Your Name]
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Food & Lodging
Costs $3,000
Keeps our crew fed, housed, and human—because queer stories deserve more than granola bars and couch surfing.
Equipment Rentals
Costs $3,500
Lights, cameras, actual action—this covers the gear we need to make Lancaster’s queer magic look as cinematic as it feels.
Permits, Location Rentals & Insurance
Costs $1,500
Not sexy, but necessary—permits, insurance, and location fees keep us legal, safe, and not getting kicked out mid-drag number.
Additional Crew
Costs $5,000
We’ve been a skeleton crew pulling off full glam—this gets us extra hands to help carry gear, run sound, and maybe even eat lunch.
Share this update!
About This Team
Colleen C Brady is recognized for their award-winning documentary filmmaking and evocative photography, delving into themes of transformation and community identity. Their first feature documentary, Firebird: Built to Burn (2023), has been awarded Best Director from Poppy Jasper International Film Festival, Atlanta Docufest and Northeast Pennsylvania Film Festival. Outside of documentaries, Brady is a commercial editor and adjunct professor at Fairleigh Dickinson University.
Mariam Bakashvili is a producer and filmmaker known for her award-winning short film Woman With Violin, which explores immigrant and women’s issues. She moved to the U.S. in 2010 and studied filmmaking at Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mariam is passionate about storytelling that highlights LGBTQ+ and immigrant experiences. Outside of filmmaking, she enjoys tennis and spending time with her cat, Honey.
Nicholas Richter is an award-winning filmmaker and cinematographer whose work has been featured in festivals like TriBeCa and HBO’s Catalyst. His projects have streamed on Netflix, ESPN, and PBS. With a background in documentary filmmaking and a cinematic style, Nicholas is dedicated to telling meaningful stories and capturing stunning imagery.
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
Resilience & Queer Joy
When you conjure images of Amish country, what do you see? Horse-drawn buggies? Golden cornfields? How about drag queens spinning under neon lights? A dazzling queer community thriving in the heart of Lancaster, Pennsylvania? It’s an image that upends expectations, and it’s the story we want to tell. It’s about those who stay in small towns and create community in a world that doesn’t always know what to do with them.
Lancaster, Pennsylvania: known for its rolling hills, fluffy clouds, and deeply conservative values. But there's more than what's on the tourist guides—if you know where to look. Meet Brady Pappas, a celebrated artist documenting the local drag and queer scenes, while navigating their own transformation—embracing their trans identity and stepping into the world of drag. Amish Country Queer follows Brady’s journey as they come out to their family in a politically charged environment, offering a raw, powerful look at the resilience of a community that refuses to be erased, and a celebration of queer joy where you’d least expect it.
IG: @AmishCountryQueer
Why This Story? Why Now?
Because visibility matters, and too often, rural queer communities are left out of the narrative. Because queer and trans people are being pushed further into the margins, especially in rural America. Because stories like Amish Country Queer can be lifelines. Because the kids growing up in Lancaster, and small towns everywhere, need to know they’re not alone.
Amish Country Queer is about what happens when LGBTQ+ folks choose to stay, not leave. It’s about building community when there isn’t a blueprint and finding family where there once was fear.
At a time when drag bans and anti-trans legislation are sweeping through statehouses, this story isn’t just relevant—it’s urgent. We’re fighting erasure with joy, resistance with beauty, and silence with celebration.
We’ve already captured so many beautiful, powerful moments. But now we need your help to finish the film and bring it to communities that need it most. This isn’t just a documentary. It’s a declaration: We are here. We are thriving. And we’re not going anywhere.
About Brady Pappas:
At the cross-section of fashion and fantasy, you’ll find Brady Pappas (they/them), a non-binary
artist and digital creative based in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Pappas uses the camera as a tool to illuminate queer culture in south-central Pennsylvania. With a goal of immortalizing the under-
ground queer life in the region known as the 717, Pappas has made a staple of themselves as the it-photographer documenting the joys and celebrations that take place in the nightlife scene at drag shows, dance parties, and gay bars, capturing the essence of community with unparalleled intimacy.
IG: @BradyPappas
About Tulle Queer:
Beyond the dance floor, Pappas’ artistic vision establishes a sacred realm within small-town life through their yearly exhibition Tulle Queer. Launched in June of 2022, this collection of colorful portraits, adorned with tulle fabric, pays homage to the array of LGBTQ+ icons shaping small-town life in Pennsylvania. Initially sparked by Pappas’ love for tulle and photography, Tulle Queer has evolved into a platform for individuals to express themselves confidently and authentically. Through the project, Pappas aims to empower participants and create a sacred space where they can feel seen and celebrated.
IG: @TulleQueer
About Production:
We’ve already poured our hearts into this project, in fact, we've already created a proof of concept, which most recently, won Best Documentary at Jim Thorpe Independent Film Festival 2025.
& now we need your help to keep the momentum going. Our goal is to raise $13,000 to fund the ongoing filming and production costs. Your support will make sure we capture the powerful stories, intimate moments, and dazzling performances that will give voice to our queer icons.
Where We Are & Where We're Headed
We’re in the thick of production for Amish Country Queer, and the footage we’ve captured so far is nothing short of magic. Lancaster’s drag and queer scenes are bursting with color, resilience, and joy—now we just need your help to finish the story. This campaign will fund the final phase of production, and help us do justice to the powerful lives and voices we’re documenting.
Where the Money Is Going?
Here’s exactly how your contributions will be used:
Food & Lodging – $3,000
- Keeps our crew fed, housed, and human—because queer stories deserve more than granola bars and couch surfing.
Equipment Rentals – $3,500
- Lights, cameras, actual action—this covers the gear we need to make Lancaster’s queer magic look as cinematic as it feels.
Permits, Location Rentals & Insurance – $1,500
- Not sexy, but necessary. These keep us legal, safe, and not getting kicked out mid-drag number.
Additional Crew – $5,000
- We’ve been a skeleton crew pulling off full glam. This helps us bring on extra hands to carry gear, run sound, and maybe even eat lunch.
Stretch Goals: Beyond 100% Funded
If we surpass our goal, every additional dollar will help fund post-production—including editing, sound mixing, color correction, and music licensing. More funding means a more polished, powerful final film, and a greater reach for these underrepresented voices.
When You'll See the Film
We aim to complete the film by Summer of 2026. Once finished, we’ll submit to festivals and organize grassroots screenings, starting right here in Lancaster.
With your contribution, Amish Country Queer will challenge perceptions, celebrate queer joy, and bring a much-needed narrative of resilience to the screen. Back us now, share the campaign, and help us prove that queer stories everywhere deserve to shine.
Key Crew:
Colleen C Brady (Director) is recognized for their award-winning documentary filmmaking and evocative photography, delving into themes of transformation and community identity. Their first feature documentary, Firebird: Built to Burn (2023), has been awarded Best Director from Poppy Jasper International Film Festival, Atlanta Docufest and Northeast Pennsylvania Film Festival, and is now on Prime Video and AppleTV. Outside of documentaries, Brady is a commercial editor and adjunct professor at Fairleigh Dickinson University.
Mariam Bakashvili (Producer) is a producer and filmmaker known for her award-winning short film Woman With Violin, which explores immigrant and women’s issues. She moved to the U.S. in 2010 and studied filmmaking at Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mariam is passionate about storytelling that highlights LGBTQ+ and immigrant experiences. Outside of filmmaking, she enjoys tennis and spending time with her cat, Honey.
Nicholas Richter (Director of Photography) is an award-winning filmmaker and cinematographer whose work has been featured in festivals like TriBeCa and HBO’s Catalyst. His projects have streamed on Netflix, ESPN, and PBS. With a background in documentary filmmaking and a cinematic style, Nicholas is dedicated to telling meaningful stories and capturing stunning imagery.
Featured Drag Artists & Organizations Include:
Nevaeha Le'Vixenn- IG: @Nevaehalvxn
Charlize Angelz - IG: @Candidlyaustin
Nes - IG: @Nes.phl
Sible Stackhouse - IG: @Definitely_Sible
Tragedy Ann Stackhouse - IG: @Tragedystackhouse
High Fever - IG: @hi_ghfever
DreamWrights Center - IG: @dreamwrightstheatre
York County History Center - IG: @YorkHistory
West Art - IG: @WestArtLanc
Here’s how you can help bring Amish Country Queer to life (Besides Pledging):
- Hit “Follow” on this campaign (& IG) - it’s free, fast, and helps us rise in the Seed&Spark rankings!
- Snag a perk and make a contribution - whether it’s $10 or $1000, it all goes toward queer joy on screen.
- Post about us! Share the campaign link on your socials and tag @AmishCountryQueer - we’ll probably cry (in a good way).
- Slide into inboxes & send a quick note to friends, fam, or that one coworker who’s weirdly into documentaries.
Your support = more drag, more storytelling, and more queer beauty in unexpected places.
Don't know what to say? Here are some templates you can copy & paste below:
Sample Caption #1:
Queer stories matter, especially in places you’d least expect them. Help support @AmishCountryQueer - a powerful new documentary.
Sample Caption #2:
Just backed Amish Country Queer, a beautiful doc about drag & queer joy in Lancaster, PA. Help bring it to life: @AmishCountryQueer
Sample Caption #3:
You’ve seen buggies and barns—now get ready for wigs and waist-snatches. Amish Country Queer is a documentary about drag & queer joy in Amish country (yes, really). Help fund this magic: @AmishCountryQueer
Close Friend/Family Circle:
Hey! I’m supporting this incredible doc called Amish Country Queer; it follows a queer community thriving in Lancaster, PA. It’s beautiful, bold, and deserves to be seen. Would love if you could chip in or help spread the word! https://seedandspark.com/fund/amish-country-queer#story
Email Template #1:
Subject: Let's Make Amish Country Queer Happen
Hi [Name],
I’m supporting a documentary called Amish Country Queer, about a photographer navigating their identity and drag journey in Lancaster, PA. It’s a powerful story of resilience and joy in a conservative community.
We need your help to make it happen! You can donate or share the campaign—every bit helps.
Check it out here: https://seedandspark.com/fund/amish-country-queer#story
You can also check out their page on IG: @AmishCountryQueer
Thanks so much,
[Your Name]
Email Template #2:
Subject: Help Us Fund Amish Country Queer
Hi [Name],
I’m helping fund a documentary that’s all about drag and queer joy in Lancaster, PA. It’s a story you don’t want to miss!
Please check out the campaign and consider donating or sharing.
Here’s the link: https://seedandspark.com/fund/amish-country-queer#story
You can also check out their page on IG: @AmishCountryQueer
Thank you!
[Your Name]
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Food & Lodging
Costs $3,000
Keeps our crew fed, housed, and human—because queer stories deserve more than granola bars and couch surfing.
Equipment Rentals
Costs $3,500
Lights, cameras, actual action—this covers the gear we need to make Lancaster’s queer magic look as cinematic as it feels.
Permits, Location Rentals & Insurance
Costs $1,500
Not sexy, but necessary—permits, insurance, and location fees keep us legal, safe, and not getting kicked out mid-drag number.
Additional Crew
Costs $5,000
We’ve been a skeleton crew pulling off full glam—this gets us extra hands to help carry gear, run sound, and maybe even eat lunch.
Share this update!
About This Team
Colleen C Brady is recognized for their award-winning documentary filmmaking and evocative photography, delving into themes of transformation and community identity. Their first feature documentary, Firebird: Built to Burn (2023), has been awarded Best Director from Poppy Jasper International Film Festival, Atlanta Docufest and Northeast Pennsylvania Film Festival. Outside of documentaries, Brady is a commercial editor and adjunct professor at Fairleigh Dickinson University.
Mariam Bakashvili is a producer and filmmaker known for her award-winning short film Woman With Violin, which explores immigrant and women’s issues. She moved to the U.S. in 2010 and studied filmmaking at Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mariam is passionate about storytelling that highlights LGBTQ+ and immigrant experiences. Outside of filmmaking, she enjoys tennis and spending time with her cat, Honey.
Nicholas Richter is an award-winning filmmaker and cinematographer whose work has been featured in festivals like TriBeCa and HBO’s Catalyst. His projects have streamed on Netflix, ESPN, and PBS. With a background in documentary filmmaking and a cinematic style, Nicholas is dedicated to telling meaningful stories and capturing stunning imagery.