WTFringe 21 Producer Series: Christine Toy Johnson of “Who We Are”

We had the opportunity to learn a little more about playwright, director, and producer Christine Toy Johnson (she/her), and we’ve just gotta make the introduction.

Welcome Christine! To get us started, what WTFringe show are representing? What is your role on the production team?

CHRISTINE: I’m the writer, director, and producer for Who We Are.

 

Could you give us a brief description of your artistic background? How did you come across the work of WTF?

CHRISTINE: I\’m a writer, actor, director and advocate for inclusion and serve as Treasurer of the Dramatists Guild. I met Johannah and Rowen while interviewing them for the Dramatist Live, a weekly live magazine show we were doing at the Guild during the early months of the pandemic and was struck by their passion and great, positive energy. I was inspired to submit my play Empress Mei Li Lotus Blossom into Fringe 2020 and loved participating in last year\’s festival so much that I applied again this year with a brand new piece. WTF, with its culture of intentional and radical hospitality, is the perfect place to premiere this play and I couldn\’t be more thrilled to be a part of this year\’s festival!

 

We’re so happy to have you back! Would you mind elaborating on your previous collaboration with WTF?

CHRISTINE: My play Empress Mei Li Lotus Blossom, which I wrote, directed, and produced, was part of WTFringe 2020. My play Adventures of a Faux Designer Handbag (directed by Judy Dove) was part of Occupy the Stage 2020.

 

It has been so wonderful to talk with you. To close us out, what has been your favorite aspect of preparing for WTFringe 21?

CHRISTINE: There is such a feeling of freedom, knowing that I am being welcomed and supported so thoroughly. It\’s been a joy to work with the team, as always. I\’m thrilled that the company is now called The National Women\’s Theatre Festival, reflecting its expanded reach!

Catch the FINAL performance of Who We Are on Saturday July 24 at 6:30 pm EST.

Click here to view the full schedule for the (virtual) National Women’s Theatre Festival Fringe 21 and here to snag your tickets.

All WTFringe 21 tickets are Pay-What-You-Can with a $10 suggested donation per performance.