January 25 2023 Queer Voices

"This Is Not Me" Trans Iranian Film -- Christina Wells, Houstonian in Chicago touring production

First, we speak with the director ofThis Is Not Me, a documentary about the lives of Shervin and Saman, two transgender youth coming of age in Iran. Iran is the only country in that West Asian region to recognize trans people — any other LGBQ+ identity is banned. Yet Shervin and Saman still face severe social constraints and — despite having loving and supportive parents — are forced to live covert lives, shy away from their neighbors, and even consider emigration in order to live openly as they truly are. As they pursue gender realignment options available in Iran, This Is Not Me offers a detailed depiction of the legal and social labyrinth that promises a slim aperture for freedom.

Guest: Michael Buening, Director of Performing Arts and Culture, Asia Society
https://asiasociety.org/texas/events/30th-festival-films-iran-screening-not-me

Then, we speak with Houstonian Christina Wells, currently starring in the national tour of the musical Chicago as Matron Mamma Morton.  After 25 years, Chicago is still the one musical with everything that makes Broadway shimmy-shake: a universal tale of fame, fortune, and all that jazz, with one show stopping song after another and the most astonishing dancing you’ve ever seen. No wonder Chicago has been honored with 6 Tony Awards®, 2 Olivier Awards, a Grammy®, and thousands of standing ovations. As we celebrate our 25th anniversary — you’ve got to come see why the name on everyone’s lips is still…Chicago. Chicago is playing Jan 31st - Feb. 12th at the Hobby Center.

Guest: Christina Wells
https://christinawells.com

Queer Voices airs in Houston Texas on 90.1FM KPFT and is heard as a podcast here. Queer Voices hopes to entertain as well as illuminate LGBTQ issues in Houston and beyond. Check out our socials at:

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