Bavo Buys // Wild Narcissus

Narcissus wants to be seen. And where better than in the theater, a stage on which one is watched and adored. Narcissus makes an attempt to immortalize the youngest version of himself and fights (in vain) against the time that creeps forward. Because during the applause, a void arises that becomes deeper with every clap. How far will Narcissus go to make himself invulnerable, to be loved? In Wild Narcissus introduces Bavo Buys their new alter ego Narcissus. The performance blends plot, documentary, personal confessions, and social media in a critical and manipulative solo that denounces and celebrates our narcissistic society. Wild Narcissus shows the ephemeral and devastating power of youth, beauty, and self-preservation. Inspired by, among other things, the myth of Narcissus, the novel The Picture of Dorian Gray, and alter egos within current pop culture (think: Sasha Fierce, Ziggy Stardust...) Bavo investigates the bad in humans for the first time in his own theater performance. In September 2025, Bavo became a laureate of the Sabam Prize with Wild Narcissus during the TheaterFestival. About the makers Bavo Buys (°1998) is an actor, performer, model, and theater maker. Their work combines sharp language, physical play, and a fascination for seeking out boundaries. After a teaching degree in Dutch-English, Bavo followed the drama program at KASK Ghent, where they graduated in 2024. They stood on the boards in, among others, Up Your Ass, which was previously shown in our cultural house.