In Colombian slang, ‘piroba’ has several meanings, and is often used as an insult against queer people, particularly to demean a bottom faggot. However, in the queer community, some trans women use it affectionately to refer to non-binary individuals who do not visibly transition in one way and may present themselves as male or female at different times.

The performance La Piroba is a powerful exploration of identity, sexuality, and life on the margins of society. It centers on the self-assertion of “la Piroba,” a figure who confidently embraces her sexuality and identity as she proudly navigates the streets, always ready to be attacked and fight back violently. She often showcases herself digitally, for pleasure or to make a living. Her sexuality and body, her sole capital due to systemic precarity, serve as her shield of protection in a hostile world that denies her existence and desires to destroy her physically. “La Piroba” lives in the now, as the future does not exist for her.

The performance links the urban figure of “la Piroba” with Colombian rural myths of ambivalent and fluid inter-species beings such as “la Mojana” or “la Patasola.” These mythical figures, who are demonized for their beauty and seductive charm towards straight men, symbolize decolonial female resistance against patriarchal structures. Through this connection, La Piroba condemns the ongoing violence against queer people and celebrates the fluidity of hybridity as a challenge to the colonial order.

Selection of Festivals, Exhibitions & Awards

Creamcake Berlin 2024, Series “Is it cold in the water? at Liquidroom”, World Premiere

Credits

A performance piece by: SIMON(E) JAIKIRIUMA PAETAU | A production by: ATELIER LAPAETAU | Dramaturgy: LAURA PAETAU | Movement director: JAO MOON | Music: Closing song “VOLVÍ GONOS” by ISA GT | Music Mix: DJ PIOLINDA MARCELA | Foto & Make-up: NEO | 3D Modeling: TRVSHOLOGRVM | Design Flyer: CAMILO ACOSTA HUNTERTEXAS | Distribution: LUCÍA GONZALEZ GARCÍA | Special thanks to “LA FLORECITA” | Commissioned by: CREAMCAKE BERLIN