Denise Yvette Serna: My Story

I graduated from Essex in 2014 with an MFA in Theatre Directing from East 15 Acting School. My graduate studies exposed me to people from all over the world, allowed me to work and learn in multiple countries and truly supported my growth into a dynamic and ambitious artist. I am very grateful for my training for exposing me to how truly infinite the possibilities of theatrical experiences can be.

My journey exemplifies the liberatory power of the arts for queer people of the global majority to inspire change and spark meaningful coalitions. I champion the next generation of artists to embrace their unique perspectives and global impact to continually transform the performing arts.

I am a multifaceted international theatre practitioner whose creative journey has been marked by a deep commitment to artistic exploration, advocacy, and innovative storytelling. My credits include devising, directing, curating and assistant directing for DIY, storefront, and large theatre companies, universities, and independent production houses.

I co-founded Global Hive Laboratories, an international collective working towards a global theatre through Active Access and community exchange, with my classmate Jack Paterson. I have facilitated international workshops and productions with Global Hive Laboratories and its partners. As well as readings, fundraisers, panels, and festivals to raise awareness and promote activism about racial equity, accessibility, climate justice, gender-based violence, immigration, land sovereignty, literacy, community collaboration, and collective joy. I have instructed and collaborated in University theatre programmes throughout Chicago and other places.

I found queer affinity in my MFA programme, within the cohort of directors, and our MFA Acting peers. I appreciated that Essex was a welcoming environment, and that when our studies took us to other parts of the world, there was consideration and preparation for the wellness and safety of queer students.

Sylvia Rivera is a luminary of mine. Her commitment to building a world for those who came after her compels me to make the same commitment daily. Her work with the Gay Liberation Front and co-founding Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries with Marsha P. Johnson laid a path for me to be who I am today.

A life-changing piece of queer culture for me would be Hedwig and the Angry Inch. I fell in love with the film when I was a teenager, and I would love to be able to direct the musical on stage one day. The music is unforgettable, Hedwig is compelling and complex. She reminds us that accepting yourself is a life-long effort, and loving yourself can change everything.

My advice for new LGBTQ+ students would be to be yourself and be excellent while you're at it. Develop your moral root, and let your voice grow stronger each day. You should set boundaries and protect yourself, but you are not responsible for educating everyone.

In the next ten years, I hope that Essex continues to make LGBTQ+ students feel safe and welcome. I hope that the University will be a place that protects students, faculties, and staff and ensures they are treated with dignity, respect, and empathy from all they encounter during their time here.