With self-determination at its core, mastering the art of presentation has been a catalyst for self-empowerment inside the practice of Ballroom culture. Using fashion as a vessel of self-expression and affirmation, in line with a long history of excelling in terms of creativity, style, and precision, the Ballroom community’s art reclaims space, demands acknowledgment, and puts forth a commitment to beauty and agency. 

The series Pump, Create, Elevate is dedicated to the whole community, providing a space for gathering that is outside of the traditional dynamics of the balls. Offering a frame to practice and exchange on aspects of the culture, each session focuses on a different facet, such as preparing for the fashion categories, the basics of runway, or how to bring a non-binary gender approach, with invited guests guiding the programme. Centred around the Ballroom community and its members, this space also extends an invitation to others interested in expanding their knowledge, skills, or network. Additionally, there will be a library available in the space featuring publications that delve deeper into the culture, its history, and knowledge.

ENBY and more is a two-part session hosted by Tropikahl Ivy Saint Laurent and Hausvrau Saint Laurent, both experienced dance and music artists, as well as event producers. 

The first section, How to ENBY in Ballroom, is a workshop addressing non-binary bodies (hence ENBY, referring to ‘nb’) and their representation within the Ballroom community; a session open to all, but especially for those engaged in processes of gender (dis)identification. Tropikahl Ivy Saint Laurent and Hausvrau Saint Laurent offer a discourse and practice developed over the course of their career as accomplished performers in the categories ENBY Face, Runway and Old Way, as well as their experiences as multidisciplinary artists and dancers, activists, and leaders of the Kiki of Laveaux. They offer space for discussing and engaging in strategies of mutual care and to better situate non-binary people within Ballroom culture. This is followed by an open community session to jam with DJ Hausvrau. Using Brazilian funk, house, ballroom beats, Latin techno, and pop tracks, Hausvrau’s fierce, high-energy mixes turn the dancefloor into a sweaty, joyous crowd. Complementary materials from HKW’s Ballroom library are available on the day.

All dates:

Fri., 28.6.2024
Pump, Create, Elevate: Creative Vessel
Fashion Categories, Ballroom Effects, and Upcycling
With Legendary Mother Leo, Litchi Saint Laurent, Isabel Jazzabell, und ziehe es an

Tue., 10.09.2024
Pump, Create, Elevate: Runway 101 & Lab
With Nekia and Georgina Saint Laurent