Charlotte von Mahlsdorf

Actor

Charlotte von Mahlsdorf, born Lothar Berfelde, was a German transgender woman and antiquarian who is renowned for her work in preserving German cultural artifacts. She transformed her home into the Gründerzeit Museum, dedicated to everyday items from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Although not an actor or director, Charlotte's life inspired the Pulitzer and Tony Award-winning play "I Am My Own Wife" by Doug Wright. The play, based on extensive interviews with her, captures her remarkable life story, resilience, and contributions to cultural preservation amidst the complexities of 20th-century German history.

Films on Sooner

I Am My Own Woman

1992

91 mins

Drama, Documentary

Rosa von Praunheim portrays Charlotte von Mahlsdorf, famous transvestite from the former GDR, in a winning mix of documentary and feature film.