There is prejudice and a strong disbelief in parts of Latvian society that not everyone in society fits into two gender categories (male and female). This manifests itself in a lack of empathy and understanding. Gender is perceived in a sensitive and polarised way, opening doors to manipulation. Non-binary and trans people are readily demonised and used to build someone else's political capital. With this performance we are confronting these misconceptions and hatred. We want to say - WE ARE HERE!
In this performance a group of five* gender nonconforming people show their daily attempts to balance between two states of existence – on the one hand, staying true to their identity, and on the other hand, adapting themselves, their actions and boundaries to the generally accepted rules and expectations of society. Such balancing daily affects us both emotionally and physically. Performers invite the audience to leave their mark on artists by touching their body parts.
Artists – performance artist and educator Dash Che, musician, producer and drag artist Marss The Person, queer activists Maksis Apinis and Noa Teo.
Performance is supported by VV Foundation. Title creation with the help of ChatGPT.
*Unfortunately our fifth member could not participate in the performance due to complications after top surgery. Their absence in the performance and participation as an audience member shows the complexity of trans bodies and transitioning, which is so important to us to reach the balance we strive for.
Photos: Dace Kundrāte, Starptelpa