On this episode of The Day with Trae, guest host Deontay Damper sits down with award-winning playwright, composer, lyricist, and actor Justin Huertas. Known for his unique, comic-inspired musical style, Huertas discusses his latest project, TRIPLE FIRE SIGN, a concert event at Intiman Theatre’s new cabaret series running November 4-5, 2024. Joining him are close friends and artistic collaborators, including Kiki deLohr, Sarah Russell, and Tyler Rogers—all talented performers who have starred in Huertas' past works, adding their own creative energy to this new project.

Huertas dives into his creative journey, beginning with a passion for comic books and a dream of becoming a comic book illustrator, which evolved into cello playing and eventually a love for theater and musical performance. His breakout work, Lizard Boy, which premiered at Seattle Rep and later enjoyed international acclaim, including an Off-Broadway run, has grown alongside him over the years. Reflecting on the story’s themes of isolation and identity, Huertas shares how the pandemic added unexpected layers of relatability to the show. With audiences now experiencing a new depth of empathy, the story of a “lizard-skinned” protagonist who isolates himself resonates even more strongly post-2020.

During the conversation, Huertas also highlights the struggles he faced as a Filipino artist who hadn’t seen his own identity reflected in similar roles onstage. Pushing through self-doubt, he has now paved the way for others by showing the possibility of success for diverse stories and voices. He expresses gratitude for being able to share his work with audiences around the world, from Seattle to Southern Oregon to Off-Broadway in New York, and even the UK’s Edinburgh Fringe.

Huertas credits his success not only to his own persistence but to the vibrant Seattle arts community that nurtured him. Born in Tacoma and having lived throughout the greater Seattle area, he calls Belltown home, finding joy in creating art in a city that feels like family. As the conversation wraps up, Damper teases the upcoming TRIPLE FIRE SIGN performance, promising audiences an evening of music, storytelling, and collaboration that exemplifies Huertas’ unique artistry and passion.

Huertas’ latest project, TRIPLE FIRE SIGN, is now running November 4-5 at Intiman Theatre.

For more information, visit https://www.intiman.org/justin-huertas/. 

To see more guests like Huertas, tune in with Trae every weekday at 11 a.m. on all Converge Media platforms and The Day With Trae YouTube Channel.