In a world often filled with hostility, the ballroom community stands as a place of power, celebration, support, fantasy, and family as Matt Baume eloquently stated. Ballroom culture is a world created by and for those who have felt excluded by mainstream queer subculture. For decades, ballroom, also known as ball or house culture, has provided a platform for queer people of color, primarily blacks and latinos, to express themselves authentically and navigate a society that devalued their lives and sought to erase their presence.
In Photo: Prince Nunoy Revlon (Upper Left) | Savina Mizrahi (Lower Left) | Father Jose Angelo Dela Blanca (Upper Right) | Clay Mizrahi (Lower Right)
The LGBTQ+ community in the Philippines has been gaining recognition recently, with a significant aspect of queer culture found in the underground scene of the Ballroom Community, reminiscent of the TV series “POSE.” This inclusive community allows individuals to freely express their authentic selves, providing a sense of belonging and empowerment. Central to ballroom culture are the “Houses,” which serve as alternative chosen families for those rejected by their original homes due to their LGBTQ+ identity. These Houses organize vibrant gatherings called “Balls,” where participants compete in various categories, including voguing and other forms like Old Way, New Way, Vogue Fem, Hands, Face, Runway, Tag Team, and Realness.
In Photo: Legendary Mother Oceania Bhenji Slé (Upper Left) | Father Twyloit Mizrahi (Lower Left) | Zilver Zwan from the House of Revlon (Upper Right) | Mother Xyza from House of Mizrahi Philippine Chapter (Lower Right)
The celebration of Pride month coincide with Ball celebration at the Rainbow Ball V2, held at the City Garden Hotel Makati. The event was organized by Philippine trailblazer Mother Xyza from the House of Mizrahi, an influential figure who has not only elevated the ballroom community in the country but has also spread love and knowledge for the craft through organizing balls and supporting various LGBTQIA+ community activities. Lakan Mizrahi from the House of Mizrahi served as the host for the evening, making the night a memorable and empowering experience.
The Rainbow Ball V2 attracted both local and international ballroom scenes, offering an opportunity to witness talented performers. Esteemed judges, including Prince Nunoy Revlon from HBO Max’s Legendary Season 3, the trailblazer Mother Sharron Ninja from Taiwan, trailblazing Australian ballroom Legendary Mother Oceania Bhenji Juicy Couture Slé, and Legendary Overall Mother Koppi Mizrahi added excitement and expertise to the event. Additionally, Nique Manza, The Addlib Divas, and Geometry in Movement Ph showcased exceptional talents, blending dance, drag, and more into unforgettable spectacles.
In Photo: Addlib Divas (Upper Left) | Berta (Lower Left) | Nique Manza (Upper Right) | Clea Torres (Lower Right)
The event featured various categories that highlighted the diversity and creativity within the ballroom community. One such category was “Baby Vogue,” which showcased queer kids voguing with enthusiasm and left a lasting impression. Another notable category was “Allstyles to a Vogue beat,” a newly formed category that united dancers specializing in different styles to a vogue beat DJed by Kervs Revlon and Ayel Mari. This category bridged the ballroom and hip-hop dance scenes in the Philippines, with members of the Philippine Allstars came to support the ball. Additionally, the “OTA Body” category touched deeply as it showcased support for people of all sizes who confidently displayed their bodies.
In Photo: Dominota Nashubo (Upper Left) | Neytiri Ninja (Lower Left) | Golden Gays (Lower Right)
Moreover, the Rainbow Ball V2 had a purpose beyond celebration. Proceeds from the event went to support the Home for the Golden Gays, an organization that provides sanctuary and care for elderly LGBTQ+ members who have faced hardships and discrimination throughout their lives. This demonstrates the ballroom community’s commitment to giving back and caring for those who have paved the way for future generations.
The true power of the ballroom community lies in the visibility and acceptance it provides. Within the ballroom scene, every individual is seen, their stories and experiences acknowledged and celebrated. It offers a sanctuary for the marginalized and excluded, providing support, love, and a chosen family that embraces their authentic selves.
In a world often filled with hostility, let us recognize and honor the transformative power of the ballroom community. By celebrating and embracing the diverse expressions and narratives within this empowering culture, we take a step toward a more inclusive society—one that values and uplifts the voices and experiences of all its members, regardless of their background or identity.
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