Truth, Resistance, and Survival: Why You Need to See Intiman Theatre’s ‘I Am My Own Wife’

Oct 16

Seattle family, if there’s one thing we know about our community, it’s that we value the impact of a deeply told story, especially when that story is rooted in the resilience of marginalized voices.

As we navigate our own modern complexities, the folks over at Intiman Theatre are bringing a timely piece of history to the stage. Next month, Intiman continues its 54th season, aptly themed Truth, Resistance, Reinvention, with their upcoming production of the Pulitzer and Tony Award-winning play, I Am My Own Wife.

Running from November 4th through November 22nd at the Erickson Theatre on Capitol Hill, this is a production you aren’t going to want to miss.

A Masterclass in Resilience

Written by Doug Wright, I Am My Own Wife is based on the incredible, true story of Charlotte von Mahlsdorf. For those who might not know her history, Charlotte was an eccentric German trans woman who did the unimaginable: she survived both the horrific onslaught of the Nazi regime and the oppressive, watchful eye of the East German Stasi. She didn’t just survive, either; she held onto her identity and founded a secret museum to preserve art and antiquities that the regimes sought to destroy.

This play is a raw look at what it takes to survive when the powers that be want you erased. It asks tough questions about memory, moral ambiguity, and the secrets we keep to protect ourselves and our community. It’s a story of trans survival that resonates just as strongly today as it did in 20th-century Berlin.

One Actor, Forty Characters

What makes this run even more highly anticipated is the sheer level of artistry it takes to pull it off. This isn’t an ensemble piece; it is a solo tour-de-force.

Making her Intiman Theatre debut, actor Dani Davis is stepping into the spotlight to portray nearly 40 distinct characters. From Charlotte herself, to playwright Doug Wright, to Stasi agents and a revolving door of historical figures, Davis carries the weight of an entire world on her shoulders. Directed by Wesley Frugé, who continues to push boundaries both as Intiman’s Managing Director and the Artistic Director of Forward Flux, the artistic vision for this show is guaranteed to be intimate, gripping, and deeply moving.

Showing Up for Local Arts

Here at Converge Media, we always talk about the importance of showing up for the spaces and institutions that uplift our diverse communities. Intiman has consistently proven their commitment to telling stories that reflect the realities of those who have historically been pushed to the margins. Supporting local theater isn't just about entertainment; it’s about witnessing our shared humanity.

So, grab your folks, make a night of it on Capitol Hill, and let’s pack the Erickson Theatre.

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