This practice-led auto-ethnographical monograph is an in-depth exploration into the field of theatre directing and an individual's endless creative pursuit for belonging. Yekanians' innovative approach to the field of theatre directing addresses cultural effects relating to individuals who have struggled with ethnic identity and displacement.
The Special Team Elite is an endearing story that deals with the adolescent themes of bullying, racial discrimination and ultimately appreciation of individualism in a world that, at times, is unforgiving of 'the other'. The story reflects the real-life experiences of writer Dr Soseh Yekanians, who struggled to find her own identity as a young Armenian immigrant in Australia. The story follows Siran, a young girl who is faced with the struggles of loving her individual qualities or conforming to the pressures placed upon her by others. The question for her is: what is the 'ideal norm'? Whilst on this journey of self-discovery, Siran finds a unique camaraderie with Soraya, who is a recently arrived refugee from Afghanistan, and Sinéad, who is a feisty red-head from Ireland. All three young girls instantly develop a unique bond through commonality of their differences and eventually embark on a lifelong friendship.