STIGMA

“Whilst somewhat disturbing in the truth, well devised, exceptional acting and dance, and a lesson to all"

— Melbourne Star Observer

STIGMA is a production from Devize Co and written by Darren Vizer, that incorporates theatre, dance and physical encounters. A dynamic theatre and movement performance, examining the prejudices, discrimination and stigma experienced by people living with HIV.

Written and developed from true stories and draws inspiration from Darren’s own experiences as well as a diverse range of stories from people in the broader community who live with HIV.  STIGMA aims to change the narrative that HIV is just a ‘gay virus,’ and includes stories of heterosexual women and men.

This work contains full frontal nudity and sex scenes.

Darren Vizer: Creator

Performers: Alex Rouse, Karima Madut, Nick Kato, Tascha Flowers, Samuel Duncan, Alex Duncan, Rory Godbold, Daniel Last

Creative Consultant: Christabel Millar
Sound Composition & Design: Zac Kazepis & Neddwellyn Jones
Lighting Design: Rob Mara

STIGMA had a first developed in June 2016, with male two actors Rory Godbold and Samuel Duncan, it had second development presented at La Mama Courthouse as a part of Midsumma 2017.

We had a successful sell out season science gallery ‘Blood Season’ presented by La Mama Theatre for Melbourne Fringe 2017.

STIGMA was performed in Bendigo at The Engine Room April 2018, Supported by CERSH. The University of Melbourne’s Centre for Excellence in Rural Sexual Health (CERSH)

The STIGMA was performed in Albury Wodonga Hothouse Theatre December 2018 made possible thanks to ACON, Interreach, Albury Community Health, LGBTQI+Alliance, NSW Health - Murrumbidgee Local Health District and Thorne Harbour Health, Living Positive Victoria, Positive Women Victoria, Clinic 35.

STIGMA, has been dedicated to Ita Buttrose an early pioneer against HIV and AIDS related stigma.

My very best wishes for the STIGMA which reminds us not just of the past but the present where too many people living with HIV still experience discrimination. We need to raise our voices and confront stigma in order to eradicate it. Darren Vizer’s dance/theatre work STIGMA sends a powerful message. I am honoured to have this work dedicated to me.

Ita Buttrose AO, OBE