John Cameron Mitchell asserts that everyone possesses both male and female energies, making them all non-binary. He emphasizes that Hedwig's story critiques the patriarchy's imposition of identity rather than focusing solely on transgender narratives. Hedwig is depicted as a character symbolizing the divide between gender, referred to as a 'Berlin Wall.' As discussions evolve around casting for Hedwig, debates arise about whether a trans actor should portray the role. Mitchell identifies as non-binary and addresses the complexities of the character's gender identity as forced, not strictly trans.
"I don't know if it's a trans story as much as a story of the patriarchy forcing itself upon you, and telling you what you are."
"Hedwig defines herself as the Berlin Wall between man and woman."
"I would argue that we're all non-binary - a term that I find very temporary, because it's a negative. I prefer 'androgynous'. We all have male and female energies within us."
"If we refuse to express them, it's like a bird that's died in your wall: it can stink the place up."
#non-binary #gender-identity #hedwig-and-the-angry-inch #john-cameron-mitchell #theatrical-representation
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