About Ben

Benjamin MacEllen is a memoirist, lyricist, actor, poet, playwright, and activist who has been writing stories, songs, poems and plays since he was a young child.

He writes and speaks extensively about his experience as a transgender man which is also the focus of his memoir, A Cut Closer to Whole. He has produced and directed youth theatre in country Victoria, and written and recorded original songs on his album, Book of Dreams. He was a semi-finalist at the World Championship of Public Speaking in Chicago (2018). In his speaking engagements, both in person and in the media, he advocates for better understanding of LGBTIQA+ issues.

Ben is currently a participant in Midsumma Pathways Program (a nine-month mentorship and workshop program for LGBTQIA+ artists with disability) being mentored by acclaimed actor, playwright, and screenwriter Kate Mulvany. His latest project is writing a new Australian play set to be completed for a 2024 premiere.