Speaking to Justine Javier Long and Dax Carnay on a sweltering Saturday about their landmark production of ‘The Six Guys An Immigrant Trans Person of Colour Will Date in Melbourne’ was illuminating.
Before migrating to Melbourne seven years ago, Justine was a producer for the last 12 years working for ABS-CBN. Dax, for their part, is a transfeminine, nonbinary writer and performer from the Philippines while juggling their corporate role in Digital Marketing and Advertising, managing teams and exceeding client expectations. This partnership is rounded out by the addition of Beng Oh, Melbourne’s critically acclaimed theatre maker, as the show’s director.
When asked what prompted this project, they were quick to point out, ‘I was undertaking further studies at the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) and was studying the Meisner method. It’s an acting method which is based on truth. And my truth is that I am transfeminine. When doing my research, the material for trans representation is lacking. Add in the fact that I am an immigrant and a person of colour. The lens keeps getting narrower and narrower. So I decided to write about it, to create a space for myself and others like me so that my truth can be shared and embodied on stage – a way for me to take back my power.’
Justine also shared her struggles of trying to break into the industry after being a seasoned producer. ‘My skills from my home country as well as my experience was not recognised here in Melbourne. It was incredibly challenging and frustrating not being able to pursue my passion.’ However, Justine remained steadfast and started involving herself in the Filipino-Australian community.
It was fate that brought Dax and Justine together. And the rest, as they say, is history.
For the first time ever, we have a theatre production helmed primarily by Filipino-Australians in the 2023 line up of Midsumma Festival. ‘The Six Guys’ has the same goal as everyone else with the same (mis)adventures – the struggles of finding love and happiness. It is relatable, authentic and funny.
Watch and support them from 6 to 12 February at La Mama HQ, 205 Faraday St Carlton. Book your tickets at www.midsumma.org.au. Please note this is for mature audiences only.
‘The Six Guys An Immigrant Trans Person of Colour Will Date in Melbourne’
Written by Dax Carnay
Directed by Beng Oh
Produced by Justine Javier Long and Dax Carnay
Performed by Dax Carnay, Omar Dabash, and Sebastiano Pitruzello
Dramaturgy by Jane Miller
Lighting Design by Clare Springett
Sound Design by Ben Keene
Set and Costume Design by Christina Logan-Bell
Video and Graphic Design by Jordan Hanrahan
Stage Managed by Teri Steer
PR and Marketing by Shei Faulmino
Image by Darren Gill
Content warning: Nudity, sex scenes, coarse language, reference to sexual violence
SEASON
Monday – Sunday 6-12 February 2023
TIMES
Mon-Sat 7:30 PM
Sat – Sun: 4PM
VENUE
La Mama HQ, 205 Faraday St, Carlton VIC 3053
LENGTH
Approx. 60 minutes
TICKETS
$30 Adult | $20 Concession
Preview $20.00 | Mob $8.00
BOOKINGS
Ph. 03 9347 6948
www.lamama.com.au
www.midsumma.org.au
