Marisa Allen is one of those rare artists whose energy, humor, and sparkle seem to illuminate every stage she steps onto. A Belgian revue producer, performer, and director, she is best known as the creative mind behind the award-winning show ballet The New Sensations, a spectacular production that has captured audiences across the globe. For more than a decade, she has earned the title of “The Designer of the Stars,” creating glamorous costumes and breathtaking stage concepts for artists and performers worldwide. Her shows have brought elegance and joy to some of the most prestigious theaters and casinos, combining visual beauty, artistic excellence, and a touch of playful extravagance that has become her signature style. Marisa’s journey into show business began when she was only five years old, performing in children’s plays and discovering that the stage was her true home. Over the years, her career blossomed into a vibrant blend of performance and design. Today she continues to shine not only as a designer but also as a stand-up comedian, embodying an array of unforgettable characters, from queens to call girls, from little girls to movie icons like Marilyn Monroe. Her artistic versatility reflects her fearless creativity and deep love for entertaining others.
Beyond the spotlight, Marisa is a woman of warmth, grace, and resilience. She is a devoted wife who has shared her life with her husband for nearly three decades, a proud mother, and a deeply compassionate person who values kindness and authenticity above all. Her philosophy is simple yet profound: love and happiness are the true sources of beauty, and respect is the key to being respected. She believes that success in art and in life comes from following one’s passion, staying humble, and always daring to dream. In this interview, Marisa shares her remarkable story, from her early days as a young dreamer to her triumphs on the international stage. She talks about the inspirations behind her artistry, her experiences as a transgender woman in the entertainment world, and her reflections on empowerment, femininity, and self-expression. With her signature mix of humor, honesty, and heart, Marisa reminds us that life, like show business, is meant to be lived in full color and with a touch of sparkle.
Monika: Today, it is my great pleasure and honor to interview Marisa Allen, a Belgian revue producer, performer, director, and the creator of the award-winning show ballet The New Sensations. For more than ten years, she has been known as “The Designer of the Stars.” Hello, Marisa!
Marisa: Hello, dear Monika!
Monika: You look absolutely stunning, Marisa. What do you believe is the secret behind your timeless beauty and radiant presence?
Marisa: I think it is love and happiness, they make me glow. When you are surrounded by people who bring you joy, it reflects on your face. I also believe that taking care of your soul is just as important as taking care of your body, because inner peace always shines through.
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| Courtesy of Marisa Allen. |
Monika: When did you first realize that performing was your true passion and that you were destined to become a stage artist?
Marisa: I did not decide that at all. It has been in my blood since I was a little girl. I started to perform children's plays at the age of five. From that moment, the stage felt like my home. I can still remember the thrill of hearing the applause and feeling that magic in the air.
Monika: Do you still remember what your very first show was like and how it felt to perform in front of an audience for the first time?
Marisa: Oh yes, I do. I was just a little girl, and I asked my mother what I should be, lol. She helped me prepare, and I was so excited to perform. Even though it was just a small children’s play, it felt like the most important moment in the world to me.
Monika: You have performed in so many places around the world. Could you share more about some of your favorite revues and shows that left the biggest mark on your career?
Marisa: In a few words, that’s impossible. We had the chance, my company and I, to travel around the world. We were really blessed. We had sponsors who believed in us, so we could create the most wonderful shows. Great theatres and spectacular casinos invited us to perform. Every experience was unique and unforgettable, and each audience gave us a different kind of energy that inspired us to keep going.
Monika: You have such a rich artistic background. Are you currently working on any exciting new projects or creative ventures?
Marisa: I sold all of my show company, and I work now as a designer of all kinds of stage costumes and for various artists. I still perform but as a stand-up comedian. I play different characters such as the Queen of Belgium, a call girl, a little girl, Marilyn Monroe, etc. It is really fun. Performing comedy gives me freedom and joy, and designing lets me stay close to the artistic world I love. Both keep my creativity alive and my heart full of passion.
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| Courtesy of Marisa Allen. |
Monika: You have an incredible sense of style and confidence, Marisa. Do you believe that beauty can be a source of empowerment, and do you consciously use it to inspire others?
Marisa: YES !!!!! EVERYDAY !!!! Beauty is not only about appearance but also about the energy you project into the world. When you feel good about yourself, people feel it too. Confidence and kindness are the best beauty secrets anyone can have.
Monika: With your charisma and stage experience, have you ever considered pursuing a career in film acting or taking on larger screen roles?
Marisa: I did many little parts in some small productions in Europe, and some small parts in soap opera series. I even played a lesbian girl, not a typical casting, lol. Acting on screen is very different from performing on stage, but I enjoyed every moment of it. Each role allowed me to explore a new side of myself and connect with different kinds of audiences.
Monika: When you were going through your transition, were there any transgender women who inspired or guided you along the way?
Marisa: Yes, sure I did. My role model was Lova Mustang, or Tacky van Pekin. She was an Italian beauty, singer, movie star, and live performer. She started together with the world-famous Amanda Lear. We lived for ten years together, and then I had to give her back to God. She taught me grace, resilience, and how to carry myself with pride, and her memory still gives me strength today.
Monika: Over the years, you must have met many remarkable people. Are there any transgender women today whom you especially admire or respect?
Marisa: Sure, I worked with Dana International, a great lady, and I do respect all my sisters all over the world, famous or not. Every transgender woman who lives her truth deserves admiration. I believe each of us contributes something valuable to our community. Respect and solidarity are what keep us strong and united.
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| Courtesy of Marisa Allen. |
Monika: Many people describe coming out as a deeply emotional and sometimes difficult experience. How was it for you personally, and what do you remember most from that time in your life?
Marisa: To be honest, nothing. There has been no change since I was already a little girl. At kindergarten, when I was three years old, my parents went to tell the headmaster that I was a special little girl. Soon my name was replaced with Fabienne, and later I changed it into Marisa. I love the water, and in Hebrew, it means "Princess of Waters." I was fortunate to grow up surrounded by love and understanding, which made my journey feel natural and joyful. My story proves that when you are accepted early, life can unfold in a truly beautiful way.
Monika: As someone who has lived and worked in Belgium for many years, how do you view the current situation and level of acceptance for transgender women in Belgian society today?
Marisa: To be honest, I think it is OK. I really do not have a lot of time to go deeper into the matter. But all my close friends are very happy, and the acceptance is wonderful. A lot depends on yourself, I think. It is very important to behave like a lady and not a cheap floozy. Respect others and you will be respected too. I believe that the way you present yourself greatly influences how people respond to you. Confidence and grace can open doors and help build mutual understanding in any society.
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| Courtesy of Marisa Allen. |
Monika: The transgender movement is often represented within the broader LGBTQ+ community, but some people feel that transgender voices can get overshadowed. In your view, do you think the transgender community has enough space to promote its own cause and visibility within the larger group?
Marisa: I am not the kind of girl who feels the need to manifest. I have nothing to manifest, and I am really not selfish or egocentric. I think it is good that some people deal with it and come up for our rights. It makes the world change and sometimes listen. I have always been aware that I am very lucky with many things: my family, my friends, my career, and of course my husband. This year we will have been 27 years together, yes, we were just children when we met. I truly admire those who dedicate their energy to activism, because their work benefits us all. Personally, I prefer to express my support through kindness, art, and showing the world that happiness and love are possible for everyone.
Monika: In recent years, more transgender stories and characters have appeared in movies, television, and literature. How do you feel about the way the media represents transgender people, and do you think it has improved over time?
Marisa: I think it is great. There is one thing that really bothers me a lot. Namely, there are often some nice parts in movies that could be played by transgender girls. Unfortunately, they are always played by biological women. They never cast a real transgender woman. Lucky for us, these actresses are very good. Still, it would be wonderful to see authentic transgender talent given those opportunities. Representation matters, and seeing ourselves truthfully portrayed on screen can inspire and empower so many others.
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| Courtesy of Marisa Allen. |
Monika: Love often plays a powerful role in shaping who we are and how we live our lives. How important has love been in your journey, and in what ways has it influenced the person you are today?
Marisa: Yes, it is very important. I think it makes you or breaks you. I am blessed with a wonderful mom and dad, a great big brother and his family, and on top of the cake, the love of my life, my dear husband. For a few months, I have been a proud mother of a little angel from Ghana, Africa; it feels a little like Madonna. Love gives me strength and keeps me grounded, no matter what happens around me. It reminds me every day that happiness grows when you share it with others.
Monika: You are known for your elegance and bold sense of style. How would you describe your fashion preferences, and what inspires the way you dress in everyday life?
Marisa: Yes, I do, it is a big part of my life and work. I am always overdressed. I do not like to blend in. I always stand out, and this has been the case since I was a little girl. New trends are not really my thing. I prefer to be a trendsetter myself. I like bright colors a lot, whereas dark colors are not really my cup of tea. Fashion, for me, is another form of self-expression, a way to tell the world who I am without saying a word. I believe clothes should make you feel powerful, unique, and alive.
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| Courtesy of Marisa Allen. |
Monika: Many transgender women decide to share their experiences with the world through memoirs. Have you ever thought about writing your own life story and sharing your incredible journey with readers?
Marisa: Yes, as a matter of fact, I have, but it is going to be a volume of 14 books. So many things happened to me, so many nice encounters, from princes to stars, from mafia guys to millionaires and poor souls. But in the end, we are only people. No matter how rich you are or what nationality you are, we are humans. I believe every chapter of my life carries a lesson worth sharing. Maybe one day I will find the time to write it all down and let people see the magic and madness behind the curtain.
Monika: You have accomplished so much in your life and career. When you think about the future, where do you see yourself in the next five to seven years, both personally and professionally?
Marisa: I really hope to be under a palm tree with a cocktail in my hand. No, that’s a joke, I will still be busy with my company. I am a slave to my own creations and a workaholic. I love to create and produce, it is in my veins. I cannot imagine my life without art or the thrill of a new idea taking shape. As long as I have creativity and energy, I will never stop doing what I love.
Monika: Many young transgender women dream of entering the entertainment industry but are unsure of where to start. What advice would you give to those who hope to follow a similar path?
Marisa: I was often asked this question. It is not because you are a transgender woman that you end up in show business. No, of course not. You do or you do not. It is all about liking what you are doing, just follow your dream. Never give up, be a good person, and respect yourself and others. Passion is what drives real success, and authenticity makes you unforgettable. Believe in yourself even when others don’t, and the right doors will open in time.
Monika: Marisa, thank you so much for this wonderful conversation and for sharing your story with such honesty and joy.
Marisa: You are very welcome, it was a real pleasure. Geertz from Belgium.
All the photos: Courtesy of Marisa Allen.
© 2015 - Monika Kowalska
