Jonathan Smith

The interview recorded on January 31, 2011, features Jonathan Smith discussing their life experiences, including growing up in Auckland, New Zealand, their schooling challenges, particularly an early emphasis on switching from left-handedness to right-handedness, and an uncomfortable realization of being gay during a less accepting era. Smith's journey includes a passion for amateur dramatics which provided solace during difficult school years, but despite potential in the arts, they declined an offer from a Wellington theatre school due to various concerns.

Smith recollects a move to a small, rural college where a strong inclination towards the arts began to manifest, supported by one insightful teacher. Post schooling, an unfulfilling stint at the New Zealand post office prompted a move to London at 19, which catalyzed a personal awakening to their sexuality. Smith encounters gay culture for the first time, which prompts reflections on earlier life experiences and an eventual understanding and acceptance of their own identity.

Difficulties with mental health and sexuality contributed to a suicide attempt at20, something they later understand as a cry for help. Smith's return to London at 21 leads to a period of self-discovery and indulgence in the city's gay scene, along with the development of a successful career with British Airways. The show 'Queen of the Whole Universe' later emerges as a manifestation of Smith's lifelong interest in the arts.

Before founding the beauty pageant, they encountered challenges, including navigating the HIV/AIDS diagnosis of a long-term partner and themselves. This experience inspired them to focus energy on positive outcomes and a shift in career towards event management. Smith became an HIV/AIDS advocate, raising funds, and later establishing their own event management company.

'Queen of the Whole Universe' was born from the desire to create a theatrical event rather than a conventional drag show, highlighted by Smith's reluctance to use the word "drag" as it doesn't encapsulate the theatricality and diversity they aimed to showcase. The performance, situated in the context of raising awareness and funds for HIV/AIDS, stands as a beacon of communal and individual empowerment. Smith runs the event with a tight ship, guided by the vision that it isn't just about one's personal enjoyment but also about the positive representation and unity of the LGBTQ+ community.

The show is more than a beauty pageant—it's a stage for personal growth and community cohesion, catering to a diverse audience and cast members from various backgrounds. Smith emphasizes the transformative power of participating in the show, whether someone is grappling with their sexual identity or simply looking to express themselves in a safe and supportive environment.

In summary, Jonathan Smith's profile captures the multifaceted life of a person whose endeavors in the arts, their battle with and advocacy for HIV/AIDS, and the creation of 'Queen of the Whole Universe,' affirm the strength, creativity, and resilience within them and the broader LGBTQ+ community.

This summary is created using Generative AI. Although it is based on the recording's transcription, it may contain errors or omissions. Click here to learn more about how this summary was created.

Jonathan Smith

arts, auckland, drag, gay auckland business association (gaba), hiv / aids, jonathan smith, new zealand aids foundation (nzaf), performance, profile, queen of the whole universe, relationships, theatre

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