Exploring Queerness in Rural Settings: DJ Hills' 'Horsegirl & Cowdaddy'

What if queerness existed beyond urban centers? This pivotal question unfolds in DJ Hills' Horsegirl & Cowdaddy, which premiered at Philadelphia’s Wilma Theater from September 22 to October 4, co-produced with Soho Rep, where it is slated to run from February 20 to March 21, 2027.

Exploration of Identity in Non-Urban Settings

“What if we never left?” posed director Adil Mansoor, highlighting the significance of exploring queerness in places often overlooked. This inquiry unearths the everyday lives and struggles of queer individuals residing in rural areas, shedding light on their vibrant, albeit complicated experiences. The play acts as a reminder of the diverse queer communities thriving in all environments, pushing against the pervasive stereotype that such identities only manifest in cosmopolitan centers.

Plot Overview: A Journey of Self-Discovery

Set against the backdrop of rural Pennsylvania, Horsegirl & Cowdaddy traces the journey of a 30-something trans woman, known as Horsegirl, who resides with her father, Cowdaddy. Their static life is upended when Bethel, a newcomer involved in a Teach for America-esque initiative, arrives and sparks a relationship with Horsegirl. This introduction of a new character isn't merely a plot device; it's a catalyst for self-exploration, allowing Horsegirl to confront the complexities of realizing her identity. The dynamic serves to illustrate how connections can foster growth, particularly in environments that may not traditionally embrace such exploration.

DJ Hills' Personal Journey and Creative Vision

Hills conceived the play during a reflective visit to their hometown in 2021, influenced by the political landscape surrounding the 2020 election and sentiments about rural America. The disheartening narratives often tied to these regions can overshadow the real and nuanced experiences of their inhabitants. Hills expressed frustration over this dismissive narrative while being acutely aware of the intricacies that exist within small towns. A candid walking conversation with their father sparked the foundational dialogue that would drive the narrative. While the idea initially lingered, it took a fellowship in Italy, while studying at UCLA, to fully cultivate the intricate themes and emotional depth present in the play.

Familial Bonds and Acceptance

Despite not grasping all facets of their identity, Cowdaddy's portrayal of unconditional love for his daughter becomes a focal point. This portrayal underscores the intricate dynamics of familial relationships, especially in the context of identity exploration. Acceptance, or the lack thereof, profoundly impacts how individuals navigate their lives and identities, making Cowdaddy’s character essential to the narrative. Mansoor reflected on his instantaneous connection to the script, emphasizing how Hills intertwines themes of class and geography with queerness and transness without diminishing the characters’ experiences. It’s a poignant reminder that love can manifest in myriad forms, and that acceptance begins at home.

The Theatrical Approach: Beyond Conventional Realism

A notable aspect of the play is its movement away from strict realism. Hills suggests that they’re hesitant to chronicle queer trauma through conventional lenses. This choice reflects a broader trend in contemporary theatre, where artists push against deterministic narratives to offer more expansive portrayals of queer life. "Overt theatricality reminds the audience we are seeing a play, and we’re sharing this experience together," they said, reinforcing the transformative power of theater in shaping perceptions and experiences. (And this is the part most people overlook.) By rejecting a purely realistic approach, Hills encourages the audience to engage on a deeper, more introspective level.

Implications and Future Outlook

As the explorative narrative unfolds, it serves not only as a testament to the resilience of queer individuals in less accepting environments but challenges audiences to rethink their assumptions. The staging of Horsegirl & Cowdaddy encourages a dialogue about identity that resonates deeply beyond its rural settings. This interaction invites reflections on the intersectionality of place, class, and the diverse expressions of queerness. In a time when representation is vital, the play underscores that queer voices are not confined to urban narratives; they thrive in rural spaces too, often in ways that are both unique and compelling.

If you're working in this space, the success of this play could signal a demand for more stories centered on queer experiences outside urban contexts. This push could reshape how future narratives are crafted, encouraging artists to explore the layers of identity that exist in every corner of society.

Eve Bromberg is a critic and writer from Brooklyn, contributing to American Theatre while pursuing an MFA in Dramaturgy at Columbia.