Gair Rhydd’s Spotlight Team was graciously invited to the Chapter’s Art Centre to witness a spectacular evening of Welsh LGBTQ+ Ballroom Dancing, hosted by Nosweitha Vogue Community.
The feeling of community and togetherness within the ballroom scene is unparalleled. From the refreshing confidence of the competitors and their ability to dip, duck-walk and vogue, to the stunning looks they serve, and the impassioned reactions from the audience, Belle and I conclude there’s nothing else quite like it. We were practically entranced, and though our hands might hurt now from clapping and clicking, the pain was certainly worth it. Being in the audience for a ballroom event is something everyone must experience in their lifetime.
However, while we wholeheartedly recommend it, it’s imperative that those in attendance, especially those who wish to take part, first educate themselves regarding the Ballroom’s poignant history. While realistically anyone can attend and compete, to truly become immersed in the experience you must first understand where it comes from, how it came about, and why its history is so sacred to queer people, especially queer people of colour.
As an art form, Ballroom culture originated and was made popular in New York during the 1980s. Formed in opposition to the racism found in drag pageant culture, it allowed LGBTQ+ black and Latino individuals to express their gender and sexuality without the influence of heteronormativity. As time went on, the ballroom scene became one the most diverse environments in the world, encouraging everyone under the queer umbrella to take part. In your standard competition, competitors “walk” various categories, ranging from ‘Best Dressed’ to ‘Body & Sex,’ as they attempt to win “Grand Prize” as part of their Houses.
Since its creation, Houses have been a key part in upholding ballroom culture. Most often a group of queer people, houses can function as a person’s ‘chosen family. Run by a ‘parent,’ houses are created to provide safe havens for gay and trans youth without support systems. However, no house is identical, and some houses simply function as a competitive group.
Two fabulous shows demonstrating Ballroom Culture are ‘Pose’ and ‘Legendary,’ with the former representing the origins of ballroom culture, and the latter highlighting how it has developed since then. Both introduce you to the conventions of Ballroom, but also show how important the movement is in queer history.
Consistently a place that celebrates the fluidity of gender, sexuality and expression, Ballroom culture’s importance today cannot be understated. In an environment where binaries are constantly enforced, Ballroom challenges those that see things in black and white, instead creating a space of colour and radiance.