O’ Florida

An Original One Person Show

“What’s it like to hate someone you’ve never met?” A question that has haunted me and was the driving force in my exploration. I never set out to make an overly personal One Person Show, but after the turmoil of the summer I found myself unable to write anything else. I’ve also never considered myself a playwright, but I would like to give thanks to my advisor and professor Andie Arthur for her continued support, inspired conversations, and rules of odd numbers. An extra special shoutout to my friends and partner, Eri, for keeping me sane through this process. To all my professors throughout these years who never stopped believing and pushing me to my limits. And finally, to my mother, Elsie, for always lighting the lights and starting the music for me."

In the summer of 2023, Florida’s LGBT community faced an onslaught of discriminatory bills and laws from the top town. Many of us were faced with the very serious question “do I stay and face this prosecution, or do I flee to a safer place for me?” 

From that turmoil, I created art. It was an arduous and painful process: having to take in the vitriol, deal with it, and then put it down on paper. I like many members of my community today, are still facing the same discrimination. One way we can continue to push against negative narratives is to make educational art that reaches all audiences. And to know that you are not alone, despite how hard the world works to us feel that way. Below are some numbers and links that may provide helpful to anyone. You are not alone

Help is always available, Translifeline Suicide Hotline: tel:+18775658860 (US) and tel:+18773306366 (CAN). https://www.thetrevorproject.org/get-help/