Tasha Dixon
The Pussy Grabber Plays was developed in the wake of nearly two dozen women who independently came forward following the Access Hollywood hot mic reveal of now President Donald Trump’s egregious sexual misconduct. The original production premiered at Joe's Pub in NYC January 2019. Several truth tellers came forward to share their story.
We The Women spoke with truth teller Tasha Dixon, the former Miss Arizona who interacted with Trump while she was only partially dressed. Tasha spearheaded, co-wrote, performed and directed pieces in the LA staged reading on May 11.
We the Women: What, specifically, sparked your desire to work on Pussy Grabbers?
Tasha Dixon: I am continuously being approached about working on projects. When I found out that this show is an artistic expression of my experience designed by intelligent, accomplished female producers and writers with the intention of helping others, I decided that this was an important project to be a part of.
We the Women: What messages do you hope to convey to the audience and to the world?
Tasha Dixon: I want the world to know that one voice—your voice—matters and that there is hope and strength to be found in trauma and expression.
We the Women: While competing to be Miss USA, you were forced to greet Trump while only partially dressed. What was this like? Traumatizing?
Tasha Dixon: I was still in my teens when this happened, so being put in this situation was a confusing, disillusioning event that made me feel subjugated.
We the Women: You have been, and are, brave enough to voice your opinions surrounding that situation. What are the most crucial points that you want to communicate to the world by doing so?
Tasha Dixon: I want to reiterate to people that it is not okay to abuse one's sense of power by behaving as if they own dominion over others. To create a system in which you can change the trajectory of someone's life, and use that to corner them in their most physically or emotionally vulnerable time is not a way a leader should behave.
We the Women: What does the future hold for you, personally and professionally?
Tasha Dixon: I find myself being a voice for women and for minorities. I have collaborated on new projects that deal with women finding their voices as well as others that showcase unique hopes and dreams with ethnically diverse stories to tell.
We the Women: Favorite projects that you've worked on to date?
Tasha Dixon: I created an amazing alternate universe story about The Wizard of Oz. And of course, I enjoyed the entire experience working on the PG Plays, from concept to execution off-Broadway and bringing it all the way to Los Angeles. I not only am one of the truth-tellers, but I have been so honored to act in, co-produce, and co-direct as well.
We the Women: What challenges do you face as a woman working in a male-dominated industry? Do you see things changing or shifting for yourself and other women in the field?
Tasha Dixon: The challenges of working in male dominated Hollywood have included the casting couch, sexism, racism, and ageism. You are either considered to be, “so nice that you will do anything for a part”, or “a cold nasty woman.” The constant rejection and sense of fear that comes with being told that you have a shelf life can intimidate you, break you, or create you. I have come to discover that if you make your own rules and express your truth, the world takes notice. Have persistence and creativity to make it on your own terms. It may take longer but will be fulfilling.
We the Women: What, to you, are the three most important things in life?
Tasha Dixon: Love, integrity, humor.
We the Women: What is your work process like? Does it vary from day to day?
Tasha Dixon: My work process varies greatly since I'm involved with every aspect of filmmaking, but I find that when I make the time to get small with myself and listen to the little voice inside, it gives me the calm confidence to take on the world and be of service to others. This way I can better collaborate, listen, and be inspired.
We the Women: How has your life changed since becoming well known for something that you didn't choose to be involved in (meeting Trump under such circumstances?)
Tasha Dixon: I realize that one voice truly makes a difference. It is a deep honor to know my story has inspired others to speak their truths and that it created a beautiful piece of art that is now being performed all over the world.
We the Women: What words of advice would you give to your younger self?
Tasha Dixon: Don't be so concerned with what other people think. You already are that leader you so hope to be and are changing the world.