Following its acclaimed Off-Broadway run, Cecilia Gentili’s Red Ink bursts on to the Edinburgh stage, starring Chiquitita as the legendary trans activist and truth teller.
Cecilia Gentili’s legacy lives on in both her autobiographical play and her chosen family. Originally from Argentina, she first travelled to the US seeking a safer life as a transgender woman. After a decade as an undocumented immigrant, sex worker and drug user, Gentili was finally able to access recovery services, before fighting for and winning asylum status. Committed to ensuring that those on the margins were able to live with dignity and respect, she dedicated the rest of her life to services that improved conditions for the LGBTQ+ community, including activism, healthcare and policy work, and the founding of Trans Equity Consulting.
A mix of stand-up, camp confessional and solo theatre, Red Ink blends humour with unflinching honesty. Directed and co-produced by Nic Cory—who developed the original play with Gentili—this piece is deftly staged, expertly performed and perfectly paced.
“I am an atheist”, our hostess tells us, dressed in a transparent outfit that nods to vestal attire. Launching into tales of her return to Argentina after 16 years—including a nail-biting detention at JFK ended by the kindness of queer strangers—Chiquitita is bold and unapologetic. The script is often hilarious, and her delivery is impeccable. She introduces us to the Gentili of the 1970s, illustrated by projected photos and videos, and explains the experience of a young trans person in the highly religious society of the time. From her too-honest confession at Catholic church to her first sexual experience with a man with a holy penis tattoo, the presence of God runs through her life: whether she believes in them or not.
Stepping into Gentili’s heels for the festival run, you would never guess that this is Chiquitita’s theatrical debut. Charismatic, likeable, and with a knowing look in her eye, she easily builds a rapport with the audience from her first entrance. The fact that she is utterly stunning cannot be ignored, but that does not stop her getting down and dirty, literally on the floor at times. She skillfully utilises her testimony to draw her congregation close, before sucker-punching us with a filthy joke or no-nonsense anecdote.
They say it takes a village. Produced by Breaking the Binary Theatre, Elliot Page and PAGEBOY Productions, Sara Ramirez, Queer Arts Coalition and Nic Cory, Red Ink is a testament to Gentili’s long-lasting impact on her community, and for trans people in particular. Now more than ever it is vitally important to amplify those voices, and to continue the advocacy that she made her life’s work.
By Deborah Klayman
Cecilia Gentili’s Red Ink plays at Underbelly Bristo Square, Edinburgh until August 25th 2025.
