Trans Film and Theatre in Practice: Emerging Artists in Aotearoa Speak to Industrial Challenges and Opportunities

Abstract

This article summarises discussion points raised at a recent Rainbow Studies panel between trans scholars and creatives from across Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington. In discussing their work in various local film and theatre projects, trans creatives Jules Daniels, Seren Ashmore and Willem Koller—in a discussion led by Missy Molloy and Paige Macintosh—shed light on the industrial realities, opportunities and challenges that inform contemporary trans film and theatre in Aotearoa. What trends do these creatives see in emerging local trans media and what do they consider critical to contemporary depictions of gender diversity? How do their trans and genderqueer identities impact their creative practice? And what might their experiences reveal about a nascent trans culture in Aotearoa?