Chosen Family

A documentary by Elisa VDK

Massi, Adrien, Lylybeth and Joy are four non-binary artists at a turning point in their careers on Brussels’ burgeoning drag scene. While this chosen family is close-knit and supportive, their blood family often has difficulty understanding their identity and their profession. Many truths and emotions remain unspoken.

Their shows, sometimes very funny, sometimes very dark, often both, are directly inspired by their daily struggles. The stage allows them to express their gender identities. It’s also their livelihood and the place where they draw the energy to force their way into our society.

As their performances become increasingly notable, a quest for identity and artistic recognition takes shape. These artists aspire to something essential: the need to embrace who you are and, above all, to be accepted for who you are.

Produced by RAYUELA PRODUCTIONS in co-production with RTBF and SHELTER PROD, with the support of Taxshelter.be, ING, tax shelter of the Belgian federal government – This project took part in the DOCCELERATOR Story writing workshop.