I sat down with Jaz Terry to find out more about In My Own Little World coming to Riverside Studios this November.
Can you tell me a little about your show and what audiences can expect?
Yes sure! In My Own Little World is a queer, multifaceted piece that centres around Jada, a young trans girl navigating the early stages of her transition. The show lives in vulnerability as Jada shares her experiences and story, bringing the audience into her world.
Audiences can expect to be taken on a roller-coaster of a journey as this show explores themes of love, community, identity, resilience and finding the courage to show up as your most authentic self.
At the heart of this piece is ‘vulnerability’. What drew you to telling this story now, and at Riverside Studios?
To have In My Own Little World make its world debut at Riverside Studios is a dream come true and such an exciting chapter within its journey. This show has really snowballed into something bigger than I ever imagined; I’ve learnt so much and am excited to share this piece!
There are so many things that have drawn me to telling this story now; I believe representation is important, and so performing this show for two weeks in London is an opportunity I am extremely grateful for. Also, with Riverside Studios having a history of showcasing new, exciting work, I am honoured to be a part of their history and the winter showcase season of 2026.
What has been the biggest challenge in bringing this production to life?
I suppose one of the biggest challenges has sort of been a mental one, being able to surrender to the process and getting comfortable with the fear of the unknown. In My Own Little World is evolving, and I am creatively pushing myself even further than I did before, figuring out what works, what I want to achieve, taking even bigger risks to make the vision in my head come to fruition.
It’s currently such a crazy and amazing feeling preparing for this version of the show, because the only way I will find out if my ideas work is to go out there and do it. So here we goooo ahah!
How does the design of your show (set, sound, or lighting) impact the presentation of your story?
In this version, the design is definitely impacting how Jada’s story is being told and also the overall feel of the piece. I’ve always wanted this show to be as multifaceted as it can be, where I can pour into different elements of performance that I love and enjoy.
I’m so excited to work with a team and explore the lighting and sound design and involve projection for the first time! I hope the ideas I have in my mind will make the story feel a lot more real and immersive.
If you could sum up the show in one word or phrase, what would it be and why?
A story of becoming.
I believe we can all relate to escaping into our own little world, especially when the outside world gets overwhelming.
In My Own Little World runs at the Riverside Studios, London, on 19 – 29 November. Tickets available at https://riversidestudios.co.uk/whats-on/uJA-in-my-own-little-world/
