S_T_I_G_M_A

The latest phase of Devise Co’s productions of S_T_I_G_M_A is a confronting and dynamic live theatre and movement performance examining the prejudices, discrimination and stigma experienced by people living with HIV. The production presents a series of provocations on the stigma of HIV/AIDS, shared from lived experiences, seamlessly blending dance and acting in their expressive portrayal of the often voiceless community.

This work contains full frontal nudity and sex scenes. S_T_I_G_M_A confronts self-hatred imposed by mass culture, and the ignorance of the ill-informed and commercial media.

Stigma springs from a strong feeling of disapproval that people unfairly have in response to a particular issue. People living with HIV experience this daily, especially when traversing the realm of intimate and sexual connections. S_T_I_G_M_A unpacks this difficult terrain with a revealing visual and artistic narrative composition.

A panel discussion will be held on Sunday 1 October after the performance hosted by Professor Sharon Lewin with key HIV researchers from the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, HIV community members and leaders in the Melbourne theatre community.

Produced by Devize Co, In partnership with La Mama Theatre, Science Gallery, University of Melbourne, Victorian Aids Council, Living Positive Victoria, Positive Women Victoria and The Space Dance Centre.