The Art of Being Seen
The Art of Being Seen follows Cal Russell, a trans actor on UConn’s campus in one of the many theatre clubs: Page to Stage. As he performs in shows such as an original play written by another trans person or the musical Spring Awakening, he explores his identity. He performs as a trans man in the theatre industry. The Art of Being Seen is a story of trans and queer joy in overcoming the obstacles of being LGBTQ+ in today’s society.
Trailer
Director’s Statement
As a genderqueer artist who has been in theater for eight years now, I have had my entire experience coming out as trans within theatre. I had my first performance in a gender identity that I aligned with three years after I came out, and it has always been important to me to highlight how important it is for trans people to be able to perform as we take an entirely different perspective on gender.
In a time where I fear how the political climate may impact trans and LGBTQ+ lives, this is my way of standing up and saying that trans voices matter and deserve to be heard.
Screenings and Awards
WELab Symposium, Innovation Partnership Building - Storrs, CT
April 23, 2025 - 3-6
Rainbow Center Screening, Rainbow Center - Storrs, CT
May 2, 2025 - 5:30-6:30
Bridgeport Film Festival, Klein Memorial Auditorium - Bridgeport, CT
September 13, 2025 - 8:15-10
Wordwide Premiere, Best Student Film
Accolade Global Film Competition
September, 2025
Award of Recognition
Rainbow Center Symposium, UConn Student Union 325 - Storrs, CT
November 5, 2025 - 10-11
ACT Screening, Arts at the Capitol Theatre - Willimantic, CT
December 12, 2025 - 11-12
December 13, 2025 - 4:40-7
US Premiere