about The Pink Supper
The Pink Supper is Nando Messias’ latest artistic response to the question: how can artists ethically respond to issues of social injustice?
“Having just returned from a visit to my native country, I re-experienced the fear which comes from being in a place where violence and oppression are such common part of daily life. Despite its international image, Brazil remains the number one country for trans murders—a most shameful indictment indeed.
“I experienced daily abuse myself when living in Brazil. I know well what effects it can have on one’s life. It almost cost me mine. I am lucky to have managed to escape. But what of those who cannot afford to? The Pink Supper is dedicated to them. It is my way of telling them that they are not alone, or forgotten and that I understand their suffering because I have been there too.”
In this new work, Messias invites representatives from places where LGBTQI+ rights are under threat. The Pink Supper promotes the understanding of these rights through the shared experience of sitting around a table, breaking bread and witnessing performance. You are invited too. The performances take place between courses. Wear pink … actually wear anything you like—it’s all about being open and being yourself.
“I’m used to queer performers declaring their pain to a queer audience who is also in pain, like it’s a competition. I’m so used to trans people shouting the pain of being passed over for an opportunity or show like it’s the same as a death spectacle of trans women of colour. Nando says, I’m lucky to be here I should do something with it, not just I am here and that is enough.”
The Right Lube: The Pink Supper by Nando Messias/dancing with Judas
The Pink Supper, Nando Messias, 2019. Image by Holly Revell.
The Pink Supper, Nando Messias, 2019. Image by Holly Revell.
