Byron Nease

Behind the Mask... No More is Byron Nease's journey from an abused childhood to accepting himself as a gay, HIV+ adult. Nease has worked on Broadway for many years, in such productions as the revival of Auntie Mame opposite Angela Lansbury to playing Raoul in the Phantom of the Opera at the Pantages Theatre in Toronto. I found Nease's storytelling to be a little jumbled, especially the chapters when he was talking about his family (there were so many of them) but overall, he is able to tell what he wants to tell. Truthfully, my favorite chapter was about his grandmother, when she lived with him during her final years. It was a touching chapter, and you can tell that he really loved his grandmother dearly. I also wish that there was a better time frame in the book. It seemed to jump around some, and the inclusion of years so that we knew when what was happening would have been beneficial. I was impressed with the chapters when he finally comes around to his adult years of living with HIV for so long, and surviving with it. I think it is important for people to know that you can survive the disease, and that more people like Nease need to step forward and remind people of that.

Overall, it is a touching book, written from the heart, and one that, in its own way, is inspirational.… (más)

Byron Nease’s memoir is both tragic and uplifting at the same time.

Byron 'Bud' Nease was born into a family in turmoil and was whisked away from his minister father and his two sisters by his neurotic, actress/singer mother at a very young age to a life of abuse and confusion.

He spends most of his life explaining to his father that he is Christian and he is gay. Though his father is not happy with Bud's 'choice', he does not banish him from his life.

When Bud is diagnosed as HIV positive, his life and career are threatened due to the side effects of the many drugs he is taking. However, he proves that he is a survivor and he has his family’s and friend’s support through the difficulties he encounters.

As for Bud's professional life, he is a singer and actor who has many wonderful famous friends who support him in his happiest and his darkest moments.

I enjoyed Mr. Nease's revealin story for the notable strength and perseverance that he demonstrates for the many obstacles that he has had to overcome. The many photographs in his book are very telling and help the reader to visualize the people and places he loved so much. Though the book was written more like a diary, which some people may not like, I found it an enjoyable read.… (más)