Roxy Reelness: Paris is Burning

Where does voguing come from, and what, exactly, is throwing shade? This landmark documentary provides a vibrant snapshot of the 1980s through the eyes of New York City’s African American and Latinx Harlem drag ball scene. Made over seven years, Paris Is Burning offers an intimate portrait of rival fashion “houses,” from fierce contests for trophies, to house mothers offering sustenance in a world rampant with homophobia and transphobia, racism, AIDS, and poverty. Featuring legendary voguers, drag queens, and trans women—including Willi Ninja, Pepper LaBeija, Dorian Corey, and Venus Xtravaganza—Paris Is Burning brings it, celebrating the joy of movement, the force of eloquence, and the draw of community.

6/18 screening hosted by writer, designer, and queer historian Miles Raymer (of Dirty Magazine and End Time Unlimited) and Tivali Thomas (aka DOLLNXTDOOR) internationally recognized poet, performer and DJ, creating music, literature and art that celebrates and interrogates the Black Trans experience.