A new Amazon Prime documentary from a Gloucestershire drag artist has been released this July 2026.
Living Out Loud is written and presented by Simon Wegrzyn – who is a lecturer in drama and performance practice at the University of Gloucestershire, and competed in RuPaul's Drag Race series four as their alter-ego, Copper Topp – highlighting the social and political issues facing the LGBTQ+ community in the UK through the personal stories and experiences of members of the community.
Simon said: 'The documentary explores how and why the UK, which was once ranked first in Europe for LGBTQ+ rights, has fallen to 22nd out of 45 countries over the past decade.
'Living Out Loud was an absolute joy to film because it felt so immediate. We were working in real time, travelling across the country, meeting people in their own communities, and responding to events as they happened. Hearing such personal stories was incredibly inspiring, and it gave me a renewed belief and confidence in myself as well.
'I’m really pleased with how the documentary has turned out. What’s been especially rewarding is the response. The feedback from both the industry and audiences has been overwhelmingly positive, which has been incredibly encouraging.'
They hope Living Out Loud will reach audiences outside of the LGBTQ+ community and promote a culture of fairness and respect.
'I want people who don’t identify as LGBTQ+ to watch it with an open mind. To listen, to empathise, and hopefully come away recognising that we’re all just people. The more we understand each other, the less room there is for fear or demonisation.'
The production also provided a valuable work experience opportunity for two of Simon's students, giving them the chance to gain practical experience and insider industry knowledge.
Simon continued: 'The students have been incredibly supportive. One of the most rewarding parts of the project was being able to bring two of our graduating BA (Hons) Drama and Performance Practice students, Phoebe Ashley and LJ King, onto the production to shadow the team and gain first-hand experience of a professional documentary shoot. I’d love to continue creating opportunities like that and involve more students in future professional projects.
'Every professional project I take on makes me a better educator. Real industry experience keeps my teaching current, relevant, and grounded in how the industry actually works. When students see their lecturers working professionally beyond University of Gloucestershire, it makes the industry feel more accessible. It shows them that building a creative career is possible and, hopefully, gives them the confidence to harness their own talent and carve out their own path.'
Living Out Loud is available to stream now via Amazon Prime.
