International Chrysis

International Chrysis was a transsexual actor and singer who won plaudits for a role in the feature film "Q&A". Born Billy Schumacher, as a young teen they had a featured part in Jack Donoshow's documentary "The Queen", released by Grove Press in 1968. This was followed by work in revues at the Blue Angel, Hot Peaches and 82 Club, as well as off-off Broadway productions. Chrysis was cast as a transsexual in Sidney Lumet's "Q&A", filmed in 1989 and released April 27, 1990. A benefit in the performer's honor was held on Feb. 20, 1990 at Cafe LaMama, and Chrysis is the subject of a 1993 documentary directed by Ellen Turk, titled "Split". They died of cancer on March 26, 1990 in New York City, survived by a brother.