In what way/s are you involved with THE NAKED I: SELF-DEFINED?
I am the writer of “My Dearest Selene” and I am performing in “Thank You Zombie Lady”
Why is it important to tell the stories in THE NAKED I?
It is important for the marginalized members of the LGBT community to have an avenue to be seen and heard. Everyone has a different view of gender & sexuality and it is important for people to know that it is fluid and however they identify, it’s important to show that it is okay. The Naked I is good at showing that struggle, giving it a face, and making it relatable.
What aspects of your identity do you hope to express through your involvement with THE NAKED I?
My gender fluidity and its mysticism.
Talk about your background as an artist. What sort of artistic experience are you bringing to this production?
I have been fortunate to have been in all four Naked I productions and each time I have learned so much about pacing and mood and how to express that and connect with the audience. Each time I start again, I pour that through my acting and writing. I also went to college for animation where I learned acting through pictures and the importance of timing. So when I did start to act, in terms of merging those skills, it was perfect.
What social issues are important to you and how do they inform your work?
I am really interested in how race, gender, and social equality play out in our lives. These are fundamental ties to one’s worth. I met a seven year old trans girl and I was touched by her story. Until she was able to express herself she wanted to die. I was struck at how someone, at such a young age, didn’t feel like they had a place in the world. I want to change that and create stories that boost self worth.
What other artists or shows have inspired you?
Oh gosh, so many! My Naked I family; local artist and Star Goddess, Andrea Jenkins; Shimmer Quin Villagomez; Kevin Aviance, for the way they bend their drag; & Janet Mock. I also like artists who modify their bodies I really like sideshow performers like Little Bear, The Bearded Woman; Erik Sprague, aka The Lizard Man; and “Vampire Woman” Maria Jose Cristerna. I am really inspired by all things anime.
What is your favorite hangout spot and why?
I like to hang out in my head. It is the only place where I am not chased out of towns with fire and pitchforks – LOL!
When not involved in this production, how do you spend your time? What are some of your hobbies?
I spend my time reading a lot of different metaphysics books, philosophy, and comics, and one of my hobbies is role playing games.
Tell us about your pets, real or imaginary.
My little gray familiar is a funny cat. She is the size of a kitten, even at her 10 plus years of existence. She perches on cabinets and high places like a little gray gargoyle. Her little eyes see through to your very soul! My dragon on the other hand, Equinox, is very talkative and if you call him imaginary, he will bite you! Despite his lofty title as Dragon of the Thirty Six Flames, he enjoys Netflix and warm bonfires. Oh, and yes, the rumors are true, he really is good at baking bread.
What other projects are you working on or hope to work on?
I would love to do a power metal musical! I really like that subgenre of heavy metal and I really think it could handle my wild sensibility! Practically, I would love to create an exercise machine that would strengthen the thighs for half the price!