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Culture Stage

Q&A: Alison Wearing

CONFESSIONS OF A FAIRY’S DAUGHTER, June 25 to 28 at the George Ignatieff Theatre


As more than 100 same-sex weddings take place this week during WorldPride, the idea of what constitutes family is making news. That’s one of the issues Alison Wearing faced when she was creating Confessions Of A Fairy’s Daughter, a solo show based on her bestselling memoir about learning that her dad was gay. See listing.

What does WorldPride mean to you?

It means that miracles are possible, anywhere. When I was a kid, there was no such thing as Pride Day – there were only bath raids. So who knows what is possible around the world within the next generation?

Beginning with the words “In a world…” can you pitch your show as a movie trailer?

“In a world where most suburban dads sat on the couch and discussed sports, there was one father who was decidedly more fun….” VISUAL: a man in silk pyjamas dancing around a suburban kitchen singing show tunes with his seven-year-old daughter and her delighted friends.

So the play came first, then the book? Did the play change after the book?

Yes, it grew from 50 to 70 minutes, but it also grew in broader ways, as though the script had travelled around the world and come back wiser.

You’ve been touring the Fringe circuit with Confessions Of A Fairy’s Daughter. Most powerful audience reaction?

The woman who said, “Both my sons are gay, and I used to think there was something wrong with our family, but now, after seeing your show, I realize how beautiful and privileged our family is.”

What does your father think of the show?

Besides being tremendously honoured, he thinks the show is a hoot. He’s seen it eight times, but might let himself be dragged out to one of the Pride shows.

Dream casting of the movie adaptation?

My dad’s dream is to be played by Ryan Gosling. He says if Ryan needed any tips or special tutoring on how to be/act gay, my dad would happily supply private lessons.

What song has the potential to be a Pride anthem?

We Are Family, by Sister Sledge.

Pride weekend must-have accessories?

Red shoes (à la cover of Confessions Of A Fairy’s Daughter)

Best queer-related piece of news of 2014?

My father and fairy stepmother’s 33rd anniversary.

If Mayor Rob Ford saw your show, what would he think?

I’m advertising this as a guaranteed Rob Ford-free event, so I think he’d get bounced if he tried to buy a ticket.

And what would you say to him?

Don’t lose hope: you might still evolve!

Message to couples taking part in June 26’s mass gay wedding?

“If equal affection cannot be,

Let the more loving one be me.”

– W.H. Auden

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