article by Jake Mendel

The American Theatre of Actors is currently hosting “ICONS,” a repertory of two LGBTQ+ plays, and at the forefront of this offering is Carolyn M. Brown’s “Stormé,” a powerful piece that resurrects the story of Stormé DeLarverie, the gender-bending lesbian whose defiance during the 1969 Stonewall Inn raid is considered a pivotal spark in the gay rights revolution. Within this compelling narrative, actor Sean Segerstrom takes on a crucial role, embodying Danny Brown, a character deeply connected to Stormé’s life and legacy. Segerstrom, a queer, Korean-American artist with a multifaceted background in acting, filmmaking, and storytelling, brings a unique lens and profound sense of responsibility to this significant work.

Segerstrom’s own biography, as shared on their website, reveals an artist deeply invested in exploring the “in-between spaces” where identity, memory, and artistry converge. Their work, characterized by an “unflinching exploration of truth” and a “love letter to the transformative power of storytelling,” resonates perfectly with the subject matter of “Stormé.” A graduate with degrees spanning social science, film, music, and education, Segerstrom approaches their craft with an insatiable curiosity and a commitment to weaving lived experience into every role. Their stage presence has graced prestigious New York venues, and their choreographic work has garnered international acclaim, showcasing a diverse artistic palette that undoubtedly enriches their portrayal in “Stormé.”

What drew Segerstrom to “Stormé” was an immediate and profound connection to a new work bravely centering queer narratives and championing marginalized voices. In a world where understanding and empathy are paramount, they felt a “sacred” imperative to share this story. Segerstrom was particularly excited by the play’s potential to connect with audiences on a deeply personal level, sparking recognition, igniting action, offering hope, or inviting self-reflection. For them, portraying a part in Stormé DeLarverie’s story is not just a role but a “responsibility and a privilege” to ensure these vital narratives are heard and resonate.

Segerstrom eloquently articulates the crucial importance of learning about Stormé DeLarverie. They emphasize that Stormé’s life is a testament to the “resilience and richness of queer history,” a history often relegated to whispers rather than official records. Stormé, in Segerstrom’s view, was not just a pioneer but a “living embodiment of courage,” daring to be unapologetically herself in an era of intense persecution. Her defiance at Stonewall wasn’t just a cry but “the spark that ignited a global movement.” Segerstrom sees Stormé as intrinsically “of the people and for the people,” a fierce protector whose courage paved the way for the freedoms many in the LGBTQ+ community enjoy today. Learning about Stormé, for Segerstrom, is about honoring a profound debt and acknowledging the “shoulders on which we stand.”

The experience of working on “Stormé” has been deeply introspective for Segerstrom. They describe feeling deep emotional resonances, illuminating how this history and community are woven into their own life. This affirmation, alongside the collaboration with extraordinary artists, has been a humbling experience. Segerstrom highlights the “sheer talent,” “unwavering tenacity,” and “brave willingness to explore the raw, uncharted territories of this story” within the cast and crew. The rapid intensity of building a new work has been met with “incredible faith and grace,” solidifying Segerstrom’s belief in the urgency of sharing Stormé’s story now.

Given the play’s powerful intersectional themes – LGBTQ+ history intertwined with the contributions of a person of color – Segerstrom feels an “unquestionable” and profound sense of responsibility in presenting this work. They underscore how much of queer history, particularly the stories of those facing multiple layers of marginalization like Stormé, has been “ephemeral.” Stepping into the shoes of Danny Brown and unearthing the details of his life alongside Stormé has been a “deeply humbling privilege.” Segerstrom emphasizes the rich and meaningful legacy that Danny Brown and his partner Doc Brenner built for their community, igniting an even “fiercer dedication” to ensure their names, sacrifices, and love are known and celebrated. For Segerstrom, this role transcends mere performance; it’s about “shouldering a legacy” and amplifying voices that have been silenced for too long.

When asked who “needs” to see “Stormé,” Segerstrom’s answer is directed towards the queer community itself. In 2025, despite progress, Segerstrom observes internal divisions within the LGBTQ+ community. The play, by illuminating the multifaceted life of Stormé DeLarverie, serves as a potent reminder of the strength found in solidarity across differences. Segerstrom hopes the play will inspire members of the queer community to forge stronger bonds, champion all their stories, and remember the collective power they wield when united. This perspective highlights the play’s potential not just as a historical account but as a vital call for unity and understanding within the contemporary LGBTQ+ landscape.

Looking beyond “Stormé,” Segerstrom is deeply invested in a personal multi-media project titled “He Called Me Baby,” an exploration of how past relationships have shaped their identity, memory, and connections – themes that resonate with their broader artistic concerns. This ambitious undertaking allows Segerstrom to integrate their diverse skills as an actor, filmmaker, writer, and musician, creating a holistic and immersive storytelling experience. While focused on this personal project, Segerstrom remains open to compelling acting roles and collaborative projects, particularly those that, like “Stormé,” aim to tell vital and resonant stories.

Through their involvement in “Stormé,” Sean Segerstrom is not just portraying a character; they are actively contributing to the crucial act of reclaiming and celebrating queer history, honoring the intersectional identities that have shaped the movement, and fostering a deeper understanding of the courageous individuals who paved the way for today’s LGBTQ+ community. Their dedication and insightful reflections underscore the power of theatre to illuminate the past and inspire a more unified and inclusive future.