Santa Fe & Esmeralda
Santa Fe & Esmeralda
Book
Where Friendship & Love Intersect
In the transformative backdrop of Argentina’s evolving democracy and vibrant art scene from 1987 to 1996, “Santa Fe & Esmeralda” chronicles the profound and enduring friendship between Kita, a young Dutch woman, and Lorenzo, the gay son of a prominent Argentine family.
United by their love for music, they navigate complex family dynamics and the harsh realities of AIDS, with Kita becoming Lorenzo’s caregiver and preserving their bond through storytelling after his death, celebrating a love that transcends boundaries.
“We met in Buenos Aires on one of those beautiful November days. The color of our meeting was lavender blue. Our friendship, —a fairytale”
“Santa Fe & Esmeralda is a poignant and beautifully written memoir that navigates the intricate dance of love, friendship, and resilience between a Dutch musician and a gay Argentine dancer during Argentina’s tumultuous transition to democracy, capturing the essence of their enduring bond and the profound impact of their journey through a changing world.”
— A Reader
Santa Fe & Esmeralda
Film
Vignettes
When my album Nostalgia and my book Santa Fe & Esmeralda merged, they inspired a series of film vignettes—standalone scenes rich in imagery that capture moments and emotions. These brief, evocative portrayals invite reflection on their themes and enhance the narratives of both my music and storytelling.
The first vignette, “Santa Fe & Esmeralda – Crossroads,” marks my debut as a filmmaker and has already won Best Story at Toronto’s LGBTQ+ Film Festival and Best Music at London Women Film Festival.
You can watch trailers for these vignettes on this page. Contact Us to regain access to the full-length versions.
Santa Fe & Esmeralda – Crossroads is a beautifully crafted story delving into tales on life, love, and the enduring power of friendship, offering a touching tribute to those who navigate the crossroads of life with grace and courage.
Contact Christel
Get In Touch
Christel would love to hear from you!
If you have any questions, please send her a little note and she will get back to you as soon as she can.