So, if you haven’t heard already, or if you’ve seen the drag queen with the massive rack on my socials and wondered WTF, I want to take a moment and tell you about something really special that is happening in my world at the moment.
My sister Nelle came to me a few years ago with an idea for writing a show for the stage based on the life and times of - Yup, you guessed it, or maybe you didn’t – Tae Tae. That’s meeeee! I am not sure what happened to the idea over the past 2 years – I think the idea was bounced around and left to simmer into greatness. This year, 2023, is happening! Shake & Stir Theatre Co brings to the stage “Tae Tae in the Land of YAAAS!”
I can’t even begin to explain how my heart felt when my sister told me that it was happening. It was a really strange feeling, kind of pride and validation mushed together and mix in a bit of excitement and uncertainty and it is kinda sorta the way I felt. I have never thought of my life as anything beyond what anyone else’s life is. It baffles me a little when people say that I am inspiring. I mean I understand why they may think this – especially when they see me doing things like squashing my face between my wheel and the seat as I am pulling my chair in the car (very NOT flattering I know) but the truth is I am just living my life my amazing life, the only way I know how. To anyone reading this that has witnessed one of these face attacking moments – all is good, I am very experience. Sure, I have an extra few things to consider and juggle in my every day life, but damn its soooooo worth it! AND ANYWAY WHO DOESN’T!
This show tells the story of a journey that two young ladies go on to find meaning. Sounds a bit mushy right? Well throw in some magic, A DRAG QUEEN and a killer soundtrack and you’ll find yourself transported to a place that will have you laughing till your belly hurts, wiping away tears, dancing like no one is watching and wishing like hell you had a drag queen with massive knockers in your life.
The fabulous Maxi Shield plays Goldie, Tae Tae’s fabulous fairy god mother, and FYI, this is exactly type of FGM I would want in my life. Tinkerbell all her tiny winged friends - mmmm I just don’t think would make the cut! Goldie is such a central character in the show and shit she is just so friggen funny, but to me she represents so much more. Goldie is symbolic of the journey Tae Tae is on to love herself and see her value and self-worth. It is through our struggles, triumphs and our vulnerabilities that we learn to embrace who we are, take ownership of the choices that we make and value and cherish human connection. Yes ok, we don’t really have a fairy god mother to help us navigate through the tough times, but everything we need we have within us, we just sometimes need reminding of this.
What can I say about Maya, I am inspired by her – lol (I know, not your favourite work either Miss Maya). Maya Dove plays the part of Tae. Maya is so perfectly cast in this role. She has sass, she has attitude, she has determination and she loves her family – she kinda really is a mini me (tiny bit younger 😉). She isn’t just acting out being in a wheelchair either – she is in a wheelchair! She is such good value and she really resonates with the character because of her own lived experience. Maya has embraced the role of Tae Tae and I could not ask for a more talented, passionate and self aware person to play the part of me.
I am from quite a big family. I have 5 sisters and 2 brothers. Seven of the most special people in my life. Nelle (sister #2) was born in year that was filled with heartache and trauma! She was the best thing that happened to our family that year and although I don’t remember much, Mum has told me that she would lay Nelle beside me on my hospital bed and we would just hang out. Three years ago, when I was in hospital, guess who was there? My little sister Nelle. This time it there was a roll away bed though due to hospital policy. I’ve never actually asked her but I know this is where her creative mind started hatching the plot for this heartwarming, fun, real but magical story.
I am so proud of what Nelle has accomplished in her life. I am her biggest cheerleader and working alongside her and watching the Shake & Stir crew prepare to bring this spectacular production to life has been an unforgettable experience that has me bursting with pride, love and an overwhelming sense of being valued and seen.
So, chuck on those dancing shoes and your sequined frock or suit – grab your feather boa and join Tae Tae in the Land of YAAAS! This production will reinforce your belief in yourself and the knowledge that you are cherished, valued and seen in ways that you don’t even realise. You are the hero in your story – and you are fabulous!
Tae Tae in the Land of YAAAS! is playing at the Cremorne Theatre, QPAC from the 25th August until 17th of September.
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