In its announcement, the theater frames the event with the ethos "Pride is a protest," noting the increasing urgency of advocating for transgender rights both in the Netherlands and globally. The organizers state that the program is not intended as a basic introduction to trans issues, but rather as a platform for community expression and a call to action. "It is an invitation to take a position," the theater states. "Pride is still protest. And we are not finished yet."
The weekend is open to transgender individuals, allies, and the wider queer community. The program is split across two days, with a mix of creative workshops, performances, and spaces for social connection.
Saturday, June 13: Poetry and Performance
The weekend begins on Saturday afternoon with a Queer Poetry Workshop led by Marre Westerbeek of Podium Sleutelwoord. The session will explore the history of queer poetry and guide participants in using writing as a tool for expression and activism.
In the evening, the main stage will feature 'Zeikstuk', a production by WILD producties. The play tackles the recurring and often hostile public debate about which toilets transgender people should use. Featuring a cast of 23 trans performers aged 18 to 70, the performance is based on real-world experiences. The evening will conclude with a post-show discussion and a community dinner in the theater's garden.
Sunday, June 14: Workshops, Matinee, and Social
Sunday's events are covered by a single day ticket and offer a full day of activities. The morning starts with 'Trans Awakening', a workshop on mental resilience led by community advocates Brand Berghouwer and Jonny Tudor, designed to provide tools for navigating healthcare, mental health, and societal challenges.
This is followed by a creative session, 'Clay Your Ideal Penis', facilitated by artists Lucas Braak and Mees Elias van Zanten. The workshop invites trans participants to sculpt with clay, exploring identity and embodiment in a supportive environment.
The artistic centerpiece of the day is the Transmasc Theatre Performance Matinee. This showcase will feature a series of performances by AFAB (assigned female at birth) artists who explore and play with gender. The lineup includes work from Lucas Braak & Mees Elias van Zanten, Isadora Tomasi, SissyPhusss, Jonathan Bonny, and Jonny Tudor.
The weekend will wind down on Sunday afternoon with cocktails, music, and information stands in the garden, offering a relaxed atmosphere for attendees to connect and celebrate the community's strength and creativity.
Event Details
- What: TRANS: A two-day theater weekend
- When: June 13 & 14, 2026
- Where: Theater De Generator, Middelstegracht 36, Leiden
- Tickets: Events on Saturday are ticketed individually. A single day-pass is available for all events on Sunday. Tickets can be purchased via the theater's website.
