Transformers Scenkonst at Roots & Routes Festival
After participating in the Roots & Routes Festival in Nicosia, Cyprus, Transformers Scenkonst reflects on their experience with the performance “Oh shit, we’re the same!”. Supported by Intercult and presented within the framework of the Theatre in Palm project, the performance was hosted by the Cyprus Theatre Organisation (THOC).
“In some ways, Transformers Scenkonst is a bit of an odd duck. We’re not a traditional theatre group, but rather a loose performing arts collective—brought together not only by a shared desire to create theatre as both artists and friends, but also by the political act of making trans art by trans people—at a time when the world still talks about us more than it listens to us.
We’re based in different parts of Sweden and usually involved in separate theatre projects. Our performance “Oh shit, we’re the same!” was originally developed in a workshop, drawing on interviews with young trans people. At the time, we didn’t know if we’d ever perform it again. Then we were invited by Intercult to take part in Roots & Routes – which we were very excited about!
The week before the festival, we were a little nervous. The three of us hadn’t seen each other in person for several months, and now we were about to perform—in English for the first time, with minimal rehearsal time, and in an entirely new scenography and setting.
On the 11th, the day the festival began, we were up at 4 a.m., heading to our respective airports. Isak and Sofi, who were traveling together, nearly missed their connecting flight in Vienna and had a tough time figuring out how to get from the airport to the hotel once they arrived in Cyprus. But somehow, we made it to Nicosia on time, and with the help of Salla and Mervi from Finland, we managed to catch the bus to Theatro Apothikes. We were warmly welcomed and immediately began connecting with participants from other countries. Mille, who had traveled alone, arrived just in time for the first evening performance.
After a long day of travel, stress, and meeting so many new people, it felt good to just sit down and watch others perform. And as we watched, the anticipation for the next day quietly began to build.
The next morning, we headed to the theatre on our own for our one-hour rehearsal. Thanks to Sosanna and the THOC team, everything went smoothly. Isak and Mille worked out how to use the set—large boxes with motives from Cyprus—while Sofi ran through the lighting cues. Our performance wasn’t scheduled until 5 p.m., so after rehearsing, we tried to relax and take in the other shows.
Day two had a strong focus on female and queer experiences. Although our piece was very much its own thing (as were all the others), it felt right at home in this mosaic of identity-focused works. We used small breaks between performances to finalize details, and then it was our turn.
And despite it all—performing in another language, changing a scene that very morning, not having worked together in person for months—it felt surprisingly natural. Most of all, it was joyful. We felt a real connection with the audience, who were engaged, responsive, and laughed with us throughout.
Then, suddenly, it was over—and time for the Q&A. Once again, we were met with warmth and thoughtful questions. The audience seemed genuinely curious about our process, giving us space to reflect more deeply on how humor had been a vital tool in creating something hopeful.
Afterwards, we could finally relax—after two intense days.
The third day flew by. We had some time to see a bit more of Nicosia, enjoying a long brunch before the final round of performances, first at Theatro Apothikes and later that evening at THOC’s main stage. The night ended the way it should: with celebration and dancing to songs from each other’s countries—including a bit of Swedish punk.
On the fourth day, Sofi and Isak returned home, while Mille stayed one more night to explore more of Nicosia—both the Greek (southern) and Turkish (northern) sides. One of the organizers, Katerina, showed them around and shared insights into Cyprus’s complex history and current political situation.
Participating in Theatre in Palm was a joyous—if intense—experience. We grew closer as artists, colleagues, and friends, enjoying a rare opportunity to work, reflect, and experience theatre together. It felt like a true privilege to travel to Cyprus, meet so many incredible people from across Europe, and form connections that we hope will lead to future collaborations. With new theatres and friends to visit across the continent, we’re hopeful that more performances might be possible. In a time when the arts are under pressure and nationalism continues to rise, it felt especially meaningful to build bridges across borders.”
Created by artists Isak Nordström, Mille Bostedt, and Sofi Orem Skoglund, “Oh shit, we’re the same!” brought together voices and stories from young trans individuals, weaving their dreams, hopes, and visions for the future into a powerful stage collage. Through a vibrant mix of Shakespearean monologues, musical numbers, everyday scenes, and spoken word, they created a moving and unforgettable theatrical experience for the international festival audience
