“In 2022 the House of LaBeija’s members continue the tradition of being a safe space for transgender women, a safe space for queer people, and a safe space for those who need one. They are family and New York City is their home.”
"The House of LaBeija is a touching tribute to the human psyche and self love."
"...it’s Noël’s risk to bring this story to life, her decision not to care what the rest of the world would think, that is the shining light of the entire production."
“‘The House of LaBeija’ features letters of pride, support, discovery and encouragement as read by various members of the Ballroom scene.”
“In this stylish film by Fredgy Noël, various members of the House posing and voguing as self-affirming letters about resilience and being a role model are read in voiceover.”
“It’s a terrific tribute to the members of this chosen family."
“The House of LaBeija, the ethereal love letter to the beauty of community and celebration of self-expression."
“Captured in all their glorious vitality, the members paint a portrait of beautiful phoenixes rising from the ashes of their past, blooming into their new chapters."
"Noël gives her contributors agency over their narrative, inviting them to speak on their terms and reclaim their identities through stories from their past."
"Their individual stories only become more impactful as Noël slowly widens the portrait to show this beautiful community born from struggle."
"Noël directed, produced, edited and shot the whole thing and must be commended for how she realised this film."
“It's a gem among this year's Tribeca line-up.”
“There’s no denying that queer cinema would not be the same without “Paris Is Burning,” but Jennie Livingston’s groundbreaking 1990 documentary is no longer the only cinematic archive of New York’s legendary ballroom community. Directed by Fredgy Noël, this short documentary features members of the prominent ballroom family, the House of LaBeija, which is the first ballroom house in New York City — established in 1972 by Crystal LaBeija. The film pays homage to the House of LaBeija through a series of letters from current members. It also features original music composed by Khalif Diouf, formerly known as Le1F.”
Pride & Equality Magazine 2022 Cover Story
"I didn’t want to make a film that was performative. I wanted it to be intimate… The only way to get that is when they write in their own words.”
-Fredgy Noël
”It’s just a poignant piece of film, in cinema, that has arrived at the perfect time”
-Diovanna LaBeija
“… it’s the perfect time for me to express what I’ve been through and all my service within the community. I’m proud of it.”
-Samil LaBeija
Tribeca Line Up Announcement
Variety - April 19th 2022
Deadline - April 19th 2022
GLAAD - April 19th 2022
Awards Daily - April 19th 2022
