Hymn/Hiss envisions the transformation of a backwoods vigilante into a genderqueer trickster.

This installation-based performance crosses the bounds of a divided America, blurring class, spiritual traditions, and the freedom of expression. By resurfacing suppressed, gender-nonconforming religious icons, such as the bearded femme: Saint Wilgefortis, Šlemenda refutes the Christian right’s delegitimization of the trans* community. This work continues Šlemenda’s exploration of LGBTQI+ spiritual histories, engaging with contemporary queer practitioners of faith.

The transformation will be set against a stacked hay bale structure. A call and response with the audience in honor of Saint Wilgefortis’ feast day will be led by Reverend Mother Grace Ferris of Saint Wilgefortis Trans Mission, Schenectady, NY, a spiritual home for the trans* community.