#AchievementUnlocked

On December 10, 2014 I wrote about my experiences booking Around the World in 80 Days. For me, it was an amazing feeling to book a role that was not only a pipe dream, but that would gain me more experience in the field I was dedicating my life to. More experience would only lead to more opportunities. 

I was also happy that I was cast in the only play in Village Theatre’s season, still trying to reckon my own fears and anxiety about my body dysmorphia with the way I presented myself as a musical theatre artist. Sure, I have some pretty great pipes that have gotten me some great work, as a man. But how was I going to start to feel comfortable looking at myself in my truest form, as I am now, and hear this classically trained bari-tenor voice come out? Looking at myself in the mirror only caused more anxiety. But I found solace in the compliments of my peers, assuring me that people think I have a great voice and never question ‘it’s gender’. Still, I had resigned myself to never finding a place as a trans actress in musical theatre. 

Today, there are no words to describe the feelings I am feeling; to express the immense joy and reconciliation within myself, from booking my latest gig. I am humbled and honored to join the company of Southern Comfort, the Public Theater’s new musical work.

(Look, Ma! I’m in the New York Times!!!)

From the Public Theater website: 
Based on Kate Davis’ 2001 Sundance Award-winning documentary, SOUTHERN COMFORT tells the true story of a group of transgender friends living life on their own terms in the back hills of rural Georgia.  Winner of the prestigious Jonathan Larson Award, this folk and bluegrass inspired musical is a celebration of redefining family and choosing love over every obstacle.  Tony-winning lyricist/composer of Falsettos William Finn calls SOUTHERN COMFORT, “remarkable,” with a score that “mines the country’s heart, and unveils, along its way, surprising pathways to a new world.”

SOUTHERN COMFORT
Book and Lyrics by Dan Collins
Music by Julianne Wick Davis
Choreography by Ryan Kasprzak
Directed by Thomas Caruso
Based on the Film by Kate Davis
Conceived for the stage by Robert DuSold and Thomas Caruso

​Featuring Donnie Cianciotto, Lizzie Hagstedt,Jeffrey Kuhn, Elizabeth Ward Land, David M. Lutken, Jeff McCarthy, Morgan Morse,Annette O'Toole, Aneesh Sheth, Robin Skye, and Joel Waggoner