My Bio:
Bug Johnson
(he/they) is a trans playwright, actor, and drag artist based in New York City. Bug’s writing often explores mythology, religion, and sexuality. He is passionate about uplifting LGBTQIA+ artists and creating space for and by underrepresented voices. Select highlights of Bug’s writing include Hello, my name is Autism which was published in the PGE’s Faces of America anthology, and his newest play, The Golden Ass, which is currently undergoing workshopping at The Actor’s Studio in Manhattan. Bug’s work as an actor also reflects his passion for developing new plays, including originating roles in the upcoming Pup Play and the recent off-Broadway production of Spark.
Who am I and how do I identify?
I have been “out” openly as transmasculine/non-binary since 2016 and had begun exploring my queer and trans identity through acting, writing, and performance art even before that. I wrote my undergrad thesis on representations of the queer body in media and performance art through our recent history. Studying other trans and gender non-conforming artists gave me the language and confidence I needed to explain and explore myself and for that same reason, I’m still creating today.
I am in this industry to build others up and to be a positive representation for trans youth. What I love most about being an actor right now are the amazing connections I make across the globe with creators like myself who are working to voice their own stories and portray their own heroes. I’m here to make sure that happens for them, for me, and for the young LGBTQIA+ artists of tomorrow.