Ballroom Ngunnawal, Canberra’s Ballroom scene, continues to grow as a space for culture, community and visibility. Rooted in a global tradition created by Black and Latinx queer and trans women of colour, Ballroom has always been a site of survival, resistance and celebration — values that remain central to the scene today.
A key pillar of Ballroom Ngunnawal is the House of Iris, led by local ballroom trailblazer Mother Skye Iris, alongside Papi Iris, Apollo Iris and Rosé Iris. Together with the wider community — including 007s — they have worked collectively to build, sustain and grow Ballroom in Ngunnawal, including delivering workshops in partnership with Belconnen Youth Centre.
February sees a series of events designed to nurture skill-building and connection. Training workshops run on February 7 (1pm–4pm) (Sex Siren, Vogue Fem, Face) and February 14 (1pm–4pm) (Best Dressed, Realness, Runway), followed by Pretty in Pink 2, a kiki party on February 21 from 5pm–10pm. All events take place at Illustrious Dance & Burlesque Studio, Canberra City.
With a ball already in the works for May 2, Ballroom Ngunnawal is just getting started.
Follow Skye Iris and the House of Iris on instagram for more details.
Proudly supported by STUN.
