Doctor Who’s Jinkx Monsoon felt ‘pressure’ as a trans person playing a cis Broadway role
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Jinkx Monsoon, the winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race and star of Doctor Who, recently opened up about the challenges she faces as a trans performer taking on cis roles in theatre. The talented drag queen has been making waves in the New York theatre scene, breaking box office records and earning critical acclaim for her performances.
Last year, Jinkx made history as the first drag queen to portray Matron “Mama” Morton in the Broadway adaptation of Chicago. Currently, she is captivating audiences as Audrey in the Off-Broadway revival of Little Shop of Horrors. While these roles have traditionally been played by cisgender actresses, Jinkx’s casting brings a fresh perspective to the characters.
As a trans-femme drag performer, Jinkx spoke about the pressure she feels to succeed in these roles. In a candid conversation with Modern Family actor Jesse Tyler Ferguson on his Dinner’s On Me podcast, she expressed her concerns about living up to expectations and paving the way for other trans and drag performers in the industry.
Jinkx shared, “There’s a lot of pressure when you’re being given that chance [to play the role of a cis woman] where you’re like, ‘Oh I hope I don’t f**k this up because will they give another queen or trans person a chance after me, if I f**k this up, or if it’s not a success or people hate it’.”
Despite her initial worries, Jinkx’s performances have been well-received by audiences and critics alike. Her portrayal of Mama Morton in Chicago garnered increased ticket sales and positive reviews, giving her the confidence to tackle new roles with ease.
Reflecting on her journey as an actor, Jinkx emphasized the extra effort that drag performers have to put in to prove themselves in the industry. She highlighted the versatility and talent that drag entertainers possess, noting that they often go above and beyond to showcase their abilities.
While Jinkx faced challenges in securing acting roles initially, she is now enjoying a successful career on stage and screen. Her upcoming appearance in the new season of Doctor Who as villain Maestro has already generated buzz, with some critics praising her performance as one of the best in the Whoniverse since Missy.
Looking ahead, Jinkx is set to reprise her role as Mama Morton in Chicago for a limited run in June. With her talent and determination, she continues to break barriers and inspire others in the entertainment industry.
In conclusion, Jinkx Monsoon’s journey serves as a testament to the power of representation and authenticity in the arts. By bravely taking on cis roles and excelling in them, she is paving the way for greater inclusivity and diversity on stage and screen.
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