ANYBODY WALKING?
ANYBODY WALKING?
Panama Vergara
“ANYBODY WALKING? ” will not only sustainably strengthen the ballroom community, but also the queer BIPoC space in Hesse and further develop ballroom as a cultural movement. The project focuses on the importance of Ballroom as a historically grown and resistant culture – especially as the movement is increasingly commercialized and appropriated. The initiators place particular emphasis on the passing on of knowledge, the preservation of culture and the empowerment of Black, queer trans people.
The Kiki Balls offer a protected stage on which participants can try out the skills they have learned and present themselves in an authentic ballroom setting. At the same time, they increase the visibility of ballroom culture in Hesse, create new networks for dance professionals and set an example for inclusion, self-determination and artistic freedom.
Jury statement
Founded under the original name “Voguing in Hessen”, the “Anybody Walking?” project has been igniting the ballroom scene in Frankfurt am Main and beyond since 2018. With passion and commitment, the members have spread the art of voguing in Europe and overseas. Their events, including the first Kiki Ball in Frankfurt, are beacons of artistic expression and safe spaces for the LGBTQIA+ community.
The jury is impressed by the positive impact and lasting influence that “Anybody Walking?” has had on the cultural landscape of Frankfurt am Main. The project shows the political dimension of dance and offers young talents a stage to develop their creativity. We congratulate “Anybody Walking?” on their success and look forward to accompanying the further development of this inspiring project.