Igor Cosso Debuts Monologue on HIV and Reveals Marriage Plans

Igor Cosso premiered his first monologue, CRUISE: my last night on Earth, at Teatro Glaucio Gill in Rio de Janeiro. The British production, with a text by Jack Holden, explores the life of a young LGBTQIAPN+ community support volunteer during a phone conversation with a man who experienced the HIV epidemic in the 1980s. The actor emphasized the responsibility of addressing the topic with care and respect, aiming to welcome and respect the LGBTQIAPN+ audience.

The Challenge of the First Monologue

For Igor, being alone on stage represents a test of courage. He stated that there is no one to support or elevate the energy, just him and the audience. The challenge, he said, is to keep the story alive every day.

Conception and Responsibility

The actor, also responsible for conceiving the play, described the narrative as an “electrifying rhythm” that deeply moved him, as it addresses experiences of gay men that few choose to speak about. He emphasized the importance of using correct terminology and avoiding stigmatization, wishing for people to feel welcomed, respected, and loved.

Life with Heron Leal

Igor Cosso and his husband, Heron Leal, got married in June and spent 22 days honeymooning in Greece, Malta, and Spain. Their post-wedding routine involves intense artistic commitments: Igor dedicates himself to rehearsals for CRUISE, while Heron prepares to return to Dança dos Famosos (Dancing with the Stars) as a choreographer. The couple shares the creative process, with Igor acting as an almost assistant choreographer for Heron's routines and offering support during the monologue rehearsals.

Future Plans

The couple plans to start a family in the future. Igor commented that, although it's not a concrete moment yet, both wish to be fathers. They recognize the need for mental and financial preparation before embarking on this stage.

Impact of the HIV/AIDS Pandemic on the Narrative

The monologue highlights the impacts of prejudice and the HIV/AIDS crisis on the LGBTQIAPN+ community during the 1980s. Igor emphasized that theater has the responsibility to treat the topic with sensitivity, avoiding stigmatization and promoting acceptance.

Conclusion

Igor Cosso opens a new chapter in his career by tackling the challenge of a solo monologue on a historical and sensitive topic. Simultaneously, he celebrates a new phase in his personal life, supporting Heron Leal's work and planning a future together.

With information from Globo, O TEMPO.