"I Am My Own Wife"

Performing Charlotte Von Mahlsdorf in a staged reading
The Chicago Inclusion Project, with About Face Theatre

Tuesday, April 26th, 7 p.m.
DankHaus German American Cultural Center

This is the first time I've ever created an acting opportunity for myself.  An experiment that may, in time, proceed from this one-shot staged reading to a full production.

Months ago, it occurred to me that the most famous transgender character in modern theatre had never actually been performed professionally by a trans actress. 

Though she referred to herself as "transvestite", Charlotte lived 24/7 as a female. By our modern understanding of gender, she was clearly transgender, identifying as a female.

My "mere suggestion" of a costume for Charlotte Von Mahlsdorf.

I brought this to the attention of Andrew Volkoff, acclaimed artistic director of About Face Theatre where "I Am My Own Wife" had its first workshop audiences before premiering in New York, and eventually nabbing Tony and Pulitzer Prize awards for Best Play.  Andrew was intrigued and thought a reading might be useful.

Months later, I floated the idea to the The Chicago Inclusion Project which was looking for a good work to perform at The Dankhaus, one of the outreach venues for our Salon Series.  Our concept involved adding actors, turning this one-person show into a four-person  cast.

In our About Face rehearsal space, Andrew had one crucial night to direct us, giving tremendous input on every scene.  Then one more session to put it on its feet, and make it our own.  The next night was our single show, before 40-somoe people in the Dankhaus' big room on the 6th floor.

The performance was well received, and a portion of the crowd participated in a talk-back session afterwards.   It was a thrill to play Charlotte in this new format, and I hope its not the last time!

Cast shot afterwards at the Dankhaus (left to right): John Taflan, myself, Mari Marroquin, and Linsey Falls.