Wellington has been celebrating ballroom culture this week. It dates back to the mid-19th century but took off as a sub-culture in the early 70s as a protest against racism and transphobia faced by the LGBTQIA+ community in integrated drag spaces. House ballroom developed as a safe space for Black and Latino attendees to walk and compete for trophies and prizes. Participants belong to groups called houses - which are chosen friends or family. It's become a global phenomenon and continues to be celebrated today and seen in artistry; with Beyonce's Renaissance album as one example.
Te Papa has partnered up with art collective OVA and has been hosting free workshops, exploring the techniques, choreography and style of ballroom with international icons. The week ended with the Grand Kiki House of Marama Ball last night; the capital's largest ever Vogue Ball marking five years of the House of Marama. There were performances, beauty, fashion; all competing while displaying queer joy and artistry. 'Mother' of the House, Karamera Marama spoke to Culture 101.
