Ashley Lauren Rogers, Playwright and trans advocate

Quill and Curtain

Ashley Lauren Rogers takes center stage in our latest episode, bringing her dynamic artistry as a playwright, podcaster, and actor to our conversation. Discover how a high school program and Lorraine Hansberry's "A Raisin in the Sun" sparked Ashley's passion for storytelling, while her battle with ADHD turned plays into her refuge. As an out trans woman, Ashley is committed to crafting narratives that humanize misunderstood communities, using her personal experiences to challenge societal stereotypes and advocate for inclusivity.
Join us as we unravel the art of creating authentic characters and inclusive stories in theater. We explore the challenges of casting trans characters and the responsibilities theaters hold in fostering genuine representation. With inspiration from Lin-Manuel Miranda's philosophy, Ashley shares her creative process, revealing how her ADHD shapes her storytelling journey and how her characters naturally lead the narrative. Hear how a playwright's willingness to adapt a script for a trans actor exemplifies the essence of inclusivity in the arts.
Finally, we navigate the current state of playwriting and the hurdles playwrights face today. Despite the industry's focus on revivals and adaptations, Ashley emphasizes the enduring power of theater to unite audiences through live performances that spark societal conversations. As a multi-hyphenate artist, she discusses the necessity of embracing varied roles to sustain a career in the arts while championing the transformative impact of playwrights in reflecting humanity's diverse narratives. Tune in for an enriching dialogue that underscores the vital role of authenticity and inclusivity in shaping the future of theater.
The podcast is sponsored by Point Park University's MFA program in Writing for Screen and Stage. Find out more here: https://bit.ly/3zjugR2

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To read Darrin Friedman's work, please go to: https://newplayexchange.org/users/76352/darrin-friedman

Chapters

1. Ashley Lauren Rogers, Playwright and trans advocate (00:00:00)

2. Playwriting, Identity, and Representation (00:00:02)

3. Creating Characters and Inclusive Stories (00:12:04)

4. Creative Challenges and Collaboration in Playwriting (00:18:12)

5. The State of Playwriting Today (00:27:11)