What protects, nourishes and delights us? Journey with these queers dancing for joy & self expression, flourishing in cities, in wild nature and in magical protective castles. These beautiful short films show the multitude of ways queers find, co- create and grow the kinship, spaces and communities we need to be safe and to thrive. As activist Mariama Kaba reminds us: hope is not optimism, it is a discipline and we have to practice it every single day.

The Anti Family | dir. Freaky Film Collective | Netherlands 2023 | 12'
A haunted castle is a protective, autonomous queer space for self- acceptance with the 'anti-family' coven.

I Feel (For) You | dir. Bella Cintra | Spain 2023 | 7
Spanish trans people share their reflections about personal metamorphosis, vulnerability, love and desire and the life-affirming magic of queer kinship.

Alpha & Alpha | dir. Elias Ankarvik | Colombia 2023 | 28'
Friends Herlen Charlie and Jhoana use their creative talents, provocative performances as activism, as well as for their own joy and healing.

Anywhere the Wind Blows | dir. Jay Liu | USA 2024 | 18'
An unexpected visit from his ex rekindles unresolved desires and ingnites new dilemmas for Hong Kong activist Alex.

Black Trans Miracle | dir. Tinaye Nyathi | Australia 2022 | 18'
Lindani, a young trans man, wants to tell his partner he loves them but his self-confidence is shaken and he's struggling to reconnect with himself and his true feelings.

And a Little for Me | dir. Kathryn Roake | USA 2024 | 6'
A lez-urely, sunny beach day escalates into protests and collective dyke drama when a transgression threatens the fun and unity.

I'm In Love with Mother Nature | The Salt and Pepper Collective | Ireland 2024 | 14'
A wildly joyful exploration of how queerness, nature, creatiivty, spirituality and self-expression evolve and interconnect as we age.

CW: Police brutality, transphobia

Ticket link

Visit Show Website

Since you’re here…

… we have a small favour to ask. We don't want your money to support a hack's bar bill at Abattoir, but if you have a pound or two spare, we really encourage you to support a good cause. If this review has either helped you discover a gem or avoid a turkey, consider doing some good that will really make a difference.

You can donate to the charity of your choice, but if you're looking for inspiration, there are three charities we really like.

Show me the charities

Mama Biashara
Kate Copstick’s charity, Mama Biashara, works with the poorest and most marginalised people in Kenya. They give grants to set up small, sustainable businesses that bring financial independence and security. That five quid you spend on a large glass of House White? They can save someone’s life with that. And the money for a pair of Air Jordans? Will take four women and their fifteen children away from a man who is raping them and into a new life with a moneymaking business for Mum and happiness for the kids.
Donate to Mama Biashara now

Theatre MAD
The Make A Difference Trust fights HIV & AIDS one stage at a time. Their UK and International grant-making strategy is based on five criteria that raise awareness, educate, and provide care and support for the most vulnerable in society. A host of fundraising events, including Bucket Collections, Late Night Cabarets, West End Eurovision, West End Bares and A West End Christmas continue to raise funds for projects both in the UK and Sub-Saharan Africa.
Donate to Theatre MAD now

Acting For Others
Acting for Others provides financial and emotional support to all theatre workers in times of need through the 14 member charities. During the COVID-19 crisis Acting for Others have raised over £1.7m to support theatre workers affected by the pandemic.
Donate to Acting For Others now