“Human Wrongs”: An English-language Play About Transgender Issues, Prejudice and Freedom | 5th October, Kyiv, ProEnglish Theatre
02.10.2024
"Human Wrongs" by ProEnglish Theatre of Ukraine is a play that prompts reflection on human rights in the modern world.
This English-language production, based on Travis Alabanza’s play “Overflow”, unfolds the story of a transgender woman in an unexpected setting—a public loo. Director Alva March, for whom this work marks a debut, speaks about their connection to the material:
“When I read the text, it really resonated with me in its sincerity and how it reflects my own experiences”.
From a short etude, the play has grown into a full-fledged dramatic work that touches on society’s sensitive issues. Vero Streltsova, who plays the lead role, felt a profound connection with her character:
“This character has become so dear to me that she’s like a sister or a best mate. I didn’t want it to end”.
Her emotional performance allows the audience to feel the experiences and challenges faced by trans* people. The choice of a public loo as the play’s setting is no coincidence. Alva explains:
“For transgender people, the toilet is a gendered space. When you go there, you’re faced with a choice, and there are only two options. If you don’t fit into this binary, it leads to many stories of acceptance or rejection”.
This space becomes a symbol of broader societal problems and challenges. The creative team aims not only to entertain but also to provoke thought and action. Vero notes:
“We hope that through our play, we’ll convey that it’s not only important to refrain from committing obvious crimes, but also to not stand idly by if something happens—to stand up, speak out, and help”.
Alva adds:
“We want this to be a play for everyone because it’s about basic human rights and their neglect. When someone is struck in the face, we all feel the pain in the same way”.
This universality of experience is a key aspect of the play, allowing audience members from any background to find something relatable. Despite potential risks and societal polarisation, the team remains optimistic.
“We’d like to believe that we’re moving towards a tolerant, European society where people respect one another”, says Vero.
Alva dreams of a future where “the concept of separate communities ceases to exist altogether”, and sees this play as an important step towards that goal. “Human Wrongs” creates a space for dialogue about equality, dignity, and the right to be oneself. It invites the audience to reflect, empathise, and understand—something our society sorely needs today.
The next performance will take place on Saturday, 5th October at 5 pm at ProEnglish Theatre of Ukraine. This play offers an opportunity to become part of an important conversation about human rights and tolerance in the modern world.
News
